ILIGAN CITY (PIA) – In observance of National Women’s Month 2025, the Hulma-Iligan Creatives Collective, in partnership with The Threaded Tales Organization and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Lanao del Norte, launched The Feminine Grace to celebrate women’s contributions in art, fashion, and craftsmanship.
The event, themed Empower, Express, Elevate, features exhibits, markets, and workshops to highlight women’s roles in creative industries.
The event began with the Mabulokong Kurba Fashion Show, where designers presented sustainable fashion by transforming pre-loved clothing into new pieces using patchwork and creative designs.
Anna Leah Sanson, head of the Designs Cluster at Hulma-Iligan and in-house designer for Kuri-Kuri Lokal and Espasyo, promotes sustainable fashion while supporting Iligan’s cultural identity and women artisans. She integrated Hinayhay, a Kuri-Kuri project that upcycles clothing with traditional Maranao textiles, addressing a shortage of skilled tailors by repurposing quality second-hand garments.
What began as a livelihood project for women now also supports mental health, providing creative outlets to reduce stress and generate income. Prices of the items range from P200 to P1,000, which are available at Espasyo, a creative hub for local artisans. Other brand new clothing like Filipiniana are also available.
“Continue to equip yourself, i-equip gyud imong kaugalingon sa mga kahiblo kay di matagnaan in the future kung unsay mahitabo, atleast naa gyud kay kahibalo nga mutabang kanimo sa pag-sustinar sa kinabuhi,” she said.
(Continue to equip yourself with knowledge because the future is uncertain. At the very least, having skills and knowledge will help you sustain your livelihood.)
With support from donors and DTI, the initiative offers free workshops on crafting and business skills. DTI has provided materials and assistance, helping Iligan-made products reach platforms such as the Manila Furniture, Arts, and Manufacturing Expo at the World Trade Center, where they have been showcased for export over the past two years.
“Basta kaya naman gagawin because ang gobyerno is laging handang tumulong sa mga Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises para lumago sila,” Florence Paler, senior trade industry specialist at DTI Lanao del Norte said.
(As long as it’s possible, we will do it because the government is always ready to help Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises grow.)
The event also featured Gahum: Women’s Power on Canvas, showcasing artwork by women artists that expressed their perspectives and experiences.
Krista Marie Abing, a student from Iligan City East National High School, started painting as a school assignment. She chose the Manobo attire, focusing on the lower body to highlight its intricate and colorful designs. She felt both nervous and excited showcasing her first painting.
“Akong iingon lang kay bahalag unsa ka bati o kaayos ang skills, continue lang, keep practicing as long imong maperfect imong pagbuhat,” she said.
(I would say that no matter how good or bad your skills are, just continue practicing until you perfect your craft.)
While she dreams of becoming a zoologist, Abing plans to continue painting as a form of self-expression.
Meanwhile, the Art Tabo Market provided a platform for women artisans to showcase and sell their handmade creations, including paintings, accessories, and home decor. Hulma Espasyo, Iligan’s creative hub, allows local artisans, hobbyists, and students to display their work and connect with buyers.
The event continues throughout March at the Hulma Center in Barangay Poblacion, with free workshops on crochet, beadwork, embroidery, and floral arrangement. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
