Feature:

Ingeniously Aklan

By Pepin

The creativity of Aklanon craftsmen was hailed in the 2010 Aklan Product Showcase that started last November 15, 2010 at SM City Iloilo Activity Center. Different hand-made products and delicacies were displayed before the huge crowd of shoppers, who can’t help but adore the skilfully crafted items that were sold for a very cheap price. Many of them, especially the art and craft lovers, spent some time investigating how these products were made out of creativity.

The fabrics made from woven piña fibers were some of the popular items in display. They came in different colors and patterns that embraced both classical and contemporary styles. There were also Barong Tagalog garments, which are lightweight and lined with fine embroideries.

Many shoppers also bought some of their Christmas presents in the fair. Some of the items that are worth to be wrapped were hand-loomed notebooks, diaries, slippers, wallets, and fans. There were also colorful picture frames made from dried leaves and barks, and some fine-looking wood carvings. For people, who love fine arts and interior designing, there were home decors and living rooms accessories made from bamboo, buri fibers, and clay that were sold for a fair tag.

Of course, Aklan will not be Aklan without the ever-famous Precious Moments Dolls. Their tear-shaped eyes and guiltless smiles attracted both the young and the young-at-heart who can’t help but took some time to stop by the exhibit. These dolls were dressed uniquely, some as angels and others as day-to-day professionals. But the popular ones were those that donned costumes inspired by the Holiday season. Almost all items on display were sold for a very reasonable price that some of the huge dolls were even on 50% off (Php 550.00 only).

Aside from the local crafts, the famous delicacies of Aklan Province were also showcased in the fair. Shoppers were able to get a taste of famous mouth-watering baked treats, like the Uraro and Apas. There were also pickled fruits and vegetables, like papaya and ampalaya (bittergourd) that make enticing side-dishes.

Over-all, the event was a victory. Not only did shoppers know more about the Aklanon craftsmanship, but the people of Aklan substantiated their claim that their products can be at par with the bests in the world.

For inquiries of some of the Aklan products contact:

SUTONIEL Pina Cloth and Native Handicrafts
Old Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan 5600
(036) 262-4538
(+63) 9173160360
(+63) 9193393644
cathyfiber@yahoo.com.ph

RENTILLO Enterprises
Dahlia Street, Banga, Aklan 5601
(63-36) 2676926
(+63) 9192323722
rentillo_enterprises@yahoo.com.ph