Wooden implements used in the production and preparation of yarn, frame looms, traditionally produced and dyed cotton thread, and handwoven textiles, comprise the Abel-Iloko Exhibition. Various patterns done through different weaving design techniques are shown through the textiles on exhibit.

Traditionally regarded as heirloom pieces, the woven cloth and the patterns that these carry reflect both the weavers’ and consumers’ sense of aesthetics and what to them are culturally meaningful. Apart from their utilitarian functions as garments, blankets and towels, some of the cloth serve as ritual items.

About a third of the abel-Iloko in this exhibition are on loan from Ilocos Sur First District Representative Deogracias Victor B. Savellano, while the rest belong to the National Ethnographic Collection. The exhibition is part of the Hibla ng Lahing Filipino Program, which is a collaboration between the NMP and the House of Representatives’ Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda.

First installed at the Padre Burgos Museum at the NMP-IRMC, the Abel-Iloko Exhibition is set for upgrading and shall be re-opened to the public thereafter.