Learning About The Art of Weaving in the Philippines

Last week, I visited the Philippines once more to seek new inspiration for our small business, The Pino Collection.

I found myself in immersive luxury spaces such as the Admiral Hotel Manila MGallery, where I discovered how the beautiful blend of Filipino and Spanish art and culture is once again making its way into modern architecture and design.

I also visited Kultura Edited, a shop I’ve personally admired for years, now housed in the newly renovated Greenhills Mall. The shop has grown—bigger and better—while continuing to support a wide array of local artisans, from clothing and jewellery to food.

While at the airport waiting for my flight back to Adelaide, I stumbled upon a shop selling a book that instantly intrigued me: Rara: Art and Tradition of Mat Weaving in the Philippines.

It felt like destiny to come across this gem of a book, which held historical treasures and knowledge about the art of weaving, dating back to precolonial times. I was absolutely delighted to read it cover to cover. It taught me about the historical significance of woven mats, the various plants used in weaving across different regions, how each is harvested, the economic and sociological impacts of weaving, and the artistry behind it.

Weaving in the Philippines is not just a commercial craft—it holds deep historical and cultural importance. In some communities, intricately woven buri palm mats are used from birth to burial: mothers give birth on them, families sleep and eat on them, people dance, marry, offer prayers, and even use them to cover the deceased in their final moments.

Each region of the Philippines has access to different native plants, which means the texture, patterns, and colours of woven mats vary—deeply influenced by local environments and cultural traditions.

Solihiya (or soliya), common in Panay and Northern Mindanao, is a bamboo grillwork often used for privacy and ventilation in traditional homes. Meanwhile, the Matanpunay weaving tradition from Maguindanao features patterns inspired by a mythical bird from their local folklore.

I’m returning to Adelaide armed with newfound knowledge about this incredible weaving tradition. Learning more about my culture adds another layer of meaning to our Pino Collection bags, as they, too, carry the spirit of Filipino craftsmanship passed down through generations.