The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) opened the ARTE BABAE exhibit on March 18, 2026. The show is held at Likhang Filipino, Gallery 1, in the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) in Pasay City. It celebrates National Women’s Month by featuring women traditional artisans from across the Philippines.
NCCA Chairman and Executive Director Dr. Eric Zerrudo delivered the opening remarks. “Across our archipelago, Filipinas actively sustain and enrich the living tradition of our diverse community,” he said. He added, “They are the culture bearers who continuously shape our tradition through their craft. The women of our nation do not only create art; they uplift and preserve it.”
Assistant Secretary Marie Rafael of the Department of Social Welfare and Development echoed the sentiment. “Women artisans are guardians of our heritage, teachers of the next generation, and movers in communities,” she remarked.
DTI Assistant Secretary Al Modesto Valenciano also praised the contributors. “From traditional arts to contemporary expression, women lead creative enterprises,” he said. He noted that women’s artistry shapes both heritage and innovation.
The opening featured a performance by the women of Kalinga Sumacher. Their bamboo instruments signaled arrival, prayer and welcome. The sound set a tone of cultural pride.
Tanghalang Bagong Sibol presented a fashion show that highlighted designs by Norman Peñaflorida. The garments blended traditional art with modern style.
The exhibit displayed the stories and works of several artisans. Janeth Hanapi of Tawi‑Tawi showed 54 years of mat weaving. Minda Ciano from Benguet demonstrated a skill passed down by her parents. Geneva Agaid, a kinamay embroiderer from Abra, turned to online selling after the pandemic. Rebecca Silip, a traditional musician from Kalinga, advocates for cultural heritage and youth education. Raquel Eliserio of Aklan displayed intricate piña weaving.
ARTE BABAE stresses that art is more than decoration. It sustains households, offers dignity and expresses identity. The display reminds visitors that culture is a living practice, passed from generation to generation. Women artisans are at the heart of that practice.
The exhibit will run through the end of April, inviting the public to see the crafts and support the women who keep Philippine traditions alive.
Women Artisans Take Center Stage at NCCA’s ARTE BABAE Exhibit
