By Michelle Ducut
The Ilocos Norte provincial government will provide PHP1 million to Magdalena Galinato Gamayo, a 100-year-old national living treasure, in recognition of her contributions to the preservation of traditional Ilocano weaving.
Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc announced on Friday that the cash gift, sourced from the provincial government’s general fund, is intended to support Gamayo’s personal well-being, including her medical needs and daily living expenses. The governor is scheduled to personally deliver the check to Gamayo at her residence in Barangay Lumbaan-Bicbica, Pinili.
“This gesture is to honor her dedication and lifetime contribution to Ilocano culture as a national living treasure,” Manotoc said, adding that the provincial government was unable to celebrate her centennial birthday in August and is making up for it through this recognition.
Gamayo, affectionately called Lola Dalen, is a master weaver of “inabel,” the traditional Ilocano textile known for its intricate patterns and fine craftsmanship. She continues to pass on her skills to younger generations at the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) Cultural Center near her home. In partnership with the Department of Education, the center offers free weaving workshops under her guidance.
The process of creating inabel fabric is meticulous, involving the preparation of cotton threads, warping, braiding, and loom weaving. Despite the challenges, Gamayo finds fulfillment in seeing the younger generation embrace and preserve this heritage craft.
For decades, Gamayo has dedicated her life to ensuring the survival of Ilocano weaving traditions, making her not just a weaver but a symbol of cultural pride and legacy for the people of Ilocos Norte.