” Fruit of the Loom” Mabuhay March 2011

I finally have a copy of Mabuhay Magazine’s March issue with my feature article on Kalibo’s Pi?a Village. This is my second contribution for Philippine Airline’s in-flight magazine who is also celebrating their 70th year in the industry. I hope this is not that late to share.

Here is their cover in classic yet elegant black and white

Here is my article on pages 38-39.

Just an excerpt from my article:

..here, you can watch as villagers harvest leaves of the Red Spanish pineapple, a variety that grows primarily in Aklan’s sandy-clay soil and then weaves them ( usually with silk and polyester) into export-quality fabrics that designers like Tolentino, Lulu Tan Gan, Patis Tesoro and Mich Dulce later turn into sensational pieces of clothing and hats.

..This laborious process of producing pi?a is what males it exquisite and expensive (Php750/meter of fabric). The pi?a, in the Spanish times, is what Vicuna wool, a very pricey fabric is to the fashion world today. Back then, pi?a was worn only by royalty and the very wealthy;now, it is still the choice of fabric for Barong Tagalog, which government leaders and celebrities still wear to the most important occasions.

In Aklan, the pi?a represents not just livelihood but heritage. Like something truly Pinoy, wherever it goes in the world, the pi?a is still seen when it is home. Just as it is in Kalibo.”

 

Another accomplishment for any freelance writer. To be published and to be become a professional writer.

Next month, I will have another article with Mabuhay but a few more days before I can share it to you then. Have to abide to our terms and agreements. Till then. Mabuhay!