Philippine Hotels, Travel, Vacation, Real Estate and Maps, News

By Valerie Tort

Philippine handicrafts became a leading export product of the Philippines in different countries such as the United States of America, Germany, Japan, and other European countries. It uplifted the artistry and craftsmanship of the Filipino worldwide. The leading dollar-earner started as a hobby then it evolved as a cottage industry in several provinces such as Laguna, Cebu, the Mountain Province, and other provinces in the archipelago.

Most handicrafts in Manila are bought in leading malls and other well-known retail outlets. “I bought this fish-shaped coin purse as a souvenir item for my sister going abroad,” said Lilia, a 45-year-old woman from Pandacan, Manila. “Before, I purchased fruit baskets for our dining table and mini bamboo cups as a pen holder in my daughter’s room,” she added.

Philippine handicrafts are not only used as home furnishings but also as fashionable items. Contemporary approach to style has been incorporated with the traditional accessories and garments to recreate a certain kind of look or just to achieve a modern Filipina look.

“I recently acquired a sinamay hat as a birthday gift. I’m planning to buy another sinamay hat since it is very fashionable to wear hats these days,” Sam, a 23-year-old lady also from Pandacan, Manila said as she stopped by a store to buy a drink.

“This is a different kind of structured bag because it is made of abaca. For its material and durability, it is cheap for 700PHP each,” Yan, a 20-year-old college student from the University of Santo Tomas said while comparing her canvas and leather bags with our very own abaca bag.

“I got myself bracelets and necklaces since summer is fast approaching. It looked pretty with light or bright colored shirts. These are made from chunks or slivers of wood. The hand-painted wooden beads are stranded together with other classics pieces such as the mother of pearl to create a unique accessory,” Maritess Medina, a 32-year-ols teacher from a grade shool in Las Piñas said. “I recreated the styles published in fashion magazines by substituting these reasonably-priced accessories. I bought this necklace for only 75PHP at Lina Vizcarra-Oandasan Philippine Handicrafts store in Mabini Street, Ermita Manila.”

Lina Vizcarra-Oandasan Philippine Handicrafts store is a leading exporter, wholesaler, and retailer of Philippine handicrafts in the metro. Located near the Malate Catholic School, it is visited by people from all walks of life. They also sell mural pieces, wooden statues like the Santo Niño, and wall decorations as well.