Argao's Hidden Gem: Hinablon

 

Argao's Hablon: Weaving a Piece of Cebu's History

    Argao, a charming town in southern Cebu, is known for its delectable treats like torta and tablea, and its stunning beaches and churches. But beyond these tourist draws, Argao boasts a hidden gem: Hablon, a centuries-old tradition of handloom weaving.

    Hinablon, or shortened to hablon, is a product in a traditional process of weaving known in the town of Argao. The weaving process itself is called hablon. Produced with local fibres such as piña, cotton, and abaca, the “hablon” comes from the Visayan word “habol,” which means blanket. This weaving technique, passed down through generations, has been a thriving industry since pre-colonial times.

A Legacy Woven Through Time

    The arrival of the Spaniards in the 1500s marked the beginning of Argao's weaving history. Back then, mostly women skillfully crafted blankets and other textiles using various fibers. Weaving became deeply ingrained in Argaoanon life, with almost every woman in the town wielding the loom. This tradition seamlessly passed on to younger generations, ensuring its survival for centuries.

    Today's "Tejedoras" (weavers) are living testaments to this enduring legacy. Their practiced hands transform threads into stunning pieces of art, sought after for clothing and accessories. From a beautiful Filipino dress to a stylish Barong, Hablon adds a touch of cultural elegance to any outfit.



    In the present, there are women who weaves Hinablon inside the campus of Cebu Technological University, in Argao.






    Hablon products have grown since then. It is now made into dresses, gowns, table runners, wallets, and pouches. Research and development continue to be done to upgrade the product and transform it into one of Cebu’s prized possessions. 

Weaving Magic on the Loom

    The process of Hablon creation might seem like an complex dance. Weavers meticulously arrange strings on a wooden loom, a crucial step to ensure a flawless final product. Using traditional tools like wheels and pedals, they meticulously tighten the yarn, creating a harmony of color and design. Over 900 strands of fibers, including polyester, abaca, and cotton, are woven together to form a single piece of Hablon, typically 36 inches long.

    The dedication and skill required to produce Hablon are evident in the final product. Each piece is a masterpiece of simplicity and sophistication, a true representation of Filipino artistry. Hablon's timeless beauty makes it one of Cebu's most prized treasures.

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So, the next time you visit Argao, don't just explore its beaches and churches. Seek out the soul of the town woven into its Hablon textiles. You might even meet some talented weavers carrying on this tradition, perhaps even some from the Cebu Technological University Argao Campus!

Curious to see Hablon being created? Contact and visit CTU-ARGAO, a campus dedicated to preserving this art form, head there to witness the entire process firsthand.

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Share Your Hablon Story

Have you ever seen or worn a beautiful Hablon piece? We'd love to hear about it! Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.



Source Links: 

- Extension – Hablon – About – Cebu Technological University – Argao (ctu.edu.ph)

- Hablon: History and culture woven together | Cebu Daily News (inquirer.net)


Location: Ed, VHJX+VG2, Isidro Kintanar St, Argao, 6021 Cebu, Philippines

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