LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA)—The 100th birthday of Manlilikha ng Bayan Magdalena Gamayo on August 13 brought together weaving enthusiasts and industry stakeholders in the Ilokano textile tradition of inabel to honor “Nana Daleng.”
In a ceremony hosted by the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and in partnership with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), the Ilokana master weaver and national living treasure was given the honor for standing as a vanguard on weaving inabel, which she learned at the young age of 16.
Heads of agencies, local officials, and personalities attended the event led by Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, Congressman Angelo Marcos Barba, Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon Assistant Secretary Ana Carmela Remigio, and NCCA Art Ambassador Catriona Gray.
The event has also gathered the students and apprentices who were trained in the art of inabel weaving.
“Nana Daleng,” as she is fondly called, has excelled in weaving without formal training.
She mastered complex designs and techniques, as proven by her unique patterns, namely “inubon a sabong” (a string of flowers).
In 2012, she was formally included in the roster of individuals holding the title of “Manlilikha ng Bayan” pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 474 s. 2012.
This recognition acknowledges her lifelong commitment to inabel and her commitment to preserving this tradition for future generations.
At 100, she continues to train young Ilokano weavers to ensure the survival and relevance of “panag-abel” in Ilocos Norte.
“Nana Magdalena is a true icon and a quintessential Ilokana—someone who represents the very best in the province of Ilocos Norte and the very best of all of us Ilokanos,” said the governor in his opening speech.
He also commits to providing more assistance programs for weavers and Nana Daleng to further promote the weaving industry in the province.
“We at PGIN promise to do more for you (Magdalena Gamayo). We can and must do more for Nana Magdalena, all the weavers in Pinili, and all the weavers in Ilocos Norte. We’re here for you to support all our weavers in our great province,” Manotoc added.
During the event, the NCCA unveiled the seal of the 100th birthday celebration of Gamayo.
Meanwhile, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued Proclamation No. 664, declaring August 13, 2024, to August 12, 2025, as the Centennial Year of Magdalena Gamayo, the oldest living Ilokana master weaver.
Under this proclamation, the NCCA will lead and supervise the observance of this occasion nationwide. (AMB/MJTAB/PIA, Ilocos Norte)
