Philippine Ambassador Theresa Dizon-de Vega gives the opening speech at the "Threads of Culture: An Exhibit of Philippine Weaves (Habi)" exhibition in Seoul, Tuesday. Courtesy of the Philippine Embassy in Seoul

Philippine Ambassador Theresa Dizon-de Vega welcomed guests to the opening of "Threads of Culture: An Exhibit of Philippine Weaves" at the Ohmi Gallery in Seoul on Tuesday. The event celebrates the rich heritage of Philippine textile art, commemorating 75 years of diplomatic relations between Korea and the Philippines.

Ambassador Dizon-de Vega expressed her gratitude for the presence of distinguished guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, and noted the exhibition's significance in the heart of Seoul's cultural hub.

"We are honored by your presence and welcome you warmly to the opening of 'Threads of Culture: An Exhibit of Philippine Weaves (Habi),'" she said. "It is a privilege to gather here in the vibrant heart of Insa-dong, a cultural hub that mirrors the rich heritage we are celebrating today." "Habi" is the Filipino word for weaving.

The exhibition, which features a variety of Philippine weaves, is not just a display of textiles but a testament to the deep cultural ties between the two nations.

"This exhibit is a tribute to the enduring friendship between the Philippines and Korea as we commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations," Dizon-de Vega added. "A relationship built on mutual respect, shared values and a commitment to fostering cultural understanding."

The ambassador emphasized that each piece of fabric on display tells a story of the indigenous communities from which they originate.

"The Philippine weaves you will see today are not just fabrics; they are living traditions. Each thread carries the stories of our indigenous communities, their artistry and their dedication to preserving our cultural identity," she said. "These intricate designs, crafted with care and passed down through generations, embody the resilience, creativity and beauty of the Filipino spirit."

She also highlighted the shared heritage of both nations in the art of weaving. "It is fitting that we present this exhibit here in Korea, a nation with its own proud traditions of weaving and textile art," Dizon-de Vega noted, mentioning the "jogakbo," a traditional Korean patchwork, as a similar art form to the Pidayit, which originates from her home province of Pampanga in the Philippines.

The exhibition showcases various Philippine weaving traditions, such as the Abel Iloco, T'nalak, Piña and Yakan weaves. Through these displays, the embassy aims to build a cultural bridge between Korea and the Philippines.

"By showcasing these weaves, we hope to create a bridge between our cultures — a vibrant dialogue of art and heritage that deepens our understanding of one another," she said.

The ambassador also thanked those who helped organize the exhibition, including artisans, social entrepreneurs, weave advocates and the Embassy team.

"I wish to extend my gratitude to the artisans whose works we celebrate today, the social entrepreneurs who are tirelessly building sustainable bridges between heritage and commerce, the weave advocates and tradition bearers and all those who made this exhibit possible," she said.

Ambassador Dizon-de Vega expressed hope that the exhibition would inspire visitors to appreciate the importance of cultural heritage. "May this exhibit inspire us all to cherish our heritage and embrace the vibrant diversity that makes our world so rich," she concluded.

The exhibition will run until the end of December, allowing visitors to explore the colorful and intricate world of Philippine weaves, a powerful reminder of the country's history, artistry and cultural pride.