Araneta City and the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) are launching HIBLA: Tradition Woven Forward, a cultural initiative aimed at expanding support for Filipino weavers and preserving indigenous textile traditions.

The program builds on the earlier Habi Fiesta! trade fair held in 2024 and 2025, evolving it into a broader platform that goes beyond retail and focuses on long-term support for artisan communities.

“Hibla, meaning ‘fiber’ or ‘strand,’ perfectly encapsulates the essence of what we aim to achieve,” said Diane Romero, executive director of JAAF. “Each thread tells a story—of our history, our communities, and our future.”

For 2026, the initiative introduces capacity-building programs, creative collaborations, and recognition platforms designed to help weavers sustain their craft and adapt to a modern economy.

Organizers said the shift marks a move toward a more holistic approach that strengthens communities while bringing Philippine weaving into contemporary spaces.

“HIBLA honors a legacy rooted in our founder, J. Amado Araneta, through the spirit of ‘Tradition Woven Forward,’” Romero said. “We are not only preserving heritage, but actively propelling it into modern relevance by opening market access and inspiring new applications.”

The centerpiece of the initiative is a three-day Weavers’ Fair scheduled from 15 to 17 May 2026 at Quantum Skyview in Gateway Mall 2. The event will feature handwoven textiles and products directly sourced from partner weaver communities.

Proceeds from the fair will support the Gateway Gallery, Araneta City’s art museum, particularly its 2027 public programs.

HIBLA will also include training sessions on branding and digital storytelling, limited-edition merchandise that reinterprets traditional designs, and the HIBLA Awards recognizing excellence in craftsmanship and presentation.

“Through HIBLA, we invite Filipinos to engage with Philippine textiles beyond simply shopping,” Romero said. “It is an invitation to be part of a living legacy.”