Taguig City, Philippines — Our Filipino identity is deeply rooted in our Catholic faith. In fact, 78.8% of our population as of 2020 is predominantly Catholic. And we mostly attribute ourselves to being “religious” or “spiritual” who are comfortably saying our prayer requests to our Catholic figures such as Jesus Christ, Mama Mary, Father Joseph and various saint figurines usually placed in our homes, workplaces and churches.

Image from Likha 3 in Pasay on June 6 during the press preview, ongoing from June 7-11, 2024 in PICC Forums 2 & 3
Image from Likha 3 in Pasay on June 6 during the press preview, ongoing from June 7-11, 2024 in PICC Forums 2 & 3 for the public

The art of embroidery as seen on the clothes of our Sto. Niño and Mama Mary figurines further explores our Filipino identity in terms of creativity and talent. Artful representation of the sacrifice of the Christ is seen in our sculptures of Jesus on the cross, which is a usual sight in the Filipino culture.

Such majestic art and Filipino brilliance are seen in the grand display of design and heritage in this year’s Likha 3.

Inuod Gold Thread Embroidery as seen at one of the booths in Likha 3, happening now til June 11 at PICC

Inuod Gold Thread Embroidery as seen at one of the booths in Likha 3, happening now til June 11 at PICC

A brainchild of the madam first lady of the Philippines Liza Araneta-Marcos, the annual Likha trade shows gather artisans from across the country– with the goal to connect them to industry movers who can help improve their economic opportunities.

Philippine First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on June 6, 2024 with one of the artisans in one of the weaved fabrics booths
Philippine First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on June 6, 2024 at the Likha 3 opening ceremony. Style Visionary Network publisher & Stylish Magazine editor-in-chief Marane Plaza is seen taking a selfie with the madam first lady

Booth spaces for product display, trainings, airfares and accommodations are provided by the government to the selected artisans, especially those who are the last from their kin to know the ins and outs of traditional Filipino weaves and art forms from hundreds years ago that are slowly getting distinct nowadays.

In February 2023, Likha 1 started with a gathering of Filipino weavers from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao that showcased the craft of various artisans, which then got connected to designers to provide sustainability to the industry of authentic Philippine textiles.

In June 2024, Likha 2 was able to showcase more facets of the Filipino art and culture, by not just highlighting the Filipino textiles, but also gathering other kinds of artisans from across the country who make rare Filipino embroidery, basketry, pottery, mat weaving, wood and stone carving, filigree, shell craft and the likes. The event was also to commemorate the 125th celebration of the country’s Independence Month.

Likha 3 now aims to document and celebrate the progress of the participating artisans from Likha 1 & Likha 2, who are visibly more armed with business acumen, communication skills and confidence to sell their crafts to customers from all walks of life who are visiting their stalls at Likha 3 from June 7-June 11, 2024.

Inuod Gold Thread Embroidery

One of the traditions showcased in Likha 3 is the Inuod Gold Thread Embroidery. The goldwork in the Inuod embroidery use metal gold threads, particularly prized for the way the light plays and bounce on it. The threads also come in silver or copper.

Religious Scuplture

Aside from the embroidery on the clothes of our Mama Mary figurines, another form of craftsmanship featured in Likha 3 that is connected to our Catholic faith is the Religious Sculpture, also highlighted in a number of artisan booths.

The actual making of religious sculptures can also be witnessed, which truly captivates the brilliance of Filipino artisans and sculptors.

Sculptor at the Likha 3 event with image as taken last June 6

Work of a religious sculptor at the Likha 3 event, with image taken last June 6

Work of a religious sculptor at the Likha 3 event last June 6

Work of a religious sculptor at the Likha 3 event last June 6
Religious sculpture artisans at the Likha 3 press preview event and opening ceremony last June 7

Various Filipino weave, fabrics, fashion lines, shoe labels, art pieces and home decors are also seen at the Likha 3 event– currently happening from June 7 until June 11, 2024 at the PICC Forums 2 & 3 in Pasay City.

Explore over 70 booths of artisans, art, fabrics and products, and indulge in the authentic culture, art, heritage and identity of the Philippines.

Image Source: Likha 3, Office of the President