Isabela City proudly celebrated its vibrant cultural heritage through the Lunsod Lunsad Ropa Rampa: Tepo and Tennun Cultural Fashion Exhibit organized by the City Government of Isabela under the administration of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman through its Tourism Office headed by CTO Claudio Ramos II, held on April 4, at SM City Mindpro. The event highlighted the artistry and craftsmanship of Tepo and Tennun, two iconic woven fabrics, through a fashion showcase.
Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez delivered the welcome message, followed by Mayor Turabin-Hataman, who emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous weaving traditions as part of the city’s cultural identity.
Key officials present to express their support included Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe represented by Executive Assistant Ron Jacob Orendain, DTI Zamboanga Provincial Director Grace Aduca, and Philippine Information Agency IX Regional Director Noemi Edaga. Their messages underscored the significance of collaboration in sustaining cultural heritage while creating economic opportunities for local artisans and weavers.
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees witnessed a fashion show featuring modern and traditional ensembles crafted from Tepo and Tennun fabrics.
These apparel were made possible by the 2024 Ropa Rampa initiative, funded with P2 million through the Department of Trade and Industry’s Lungsod Lunsad program, and aimed to support local industries and celebrate the artistry of Isabeleños, particularly seamstresses and dressmakers, while promoting the traditional Yakan Tennun and Sama Tepo weaving. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
