“ Mabal Tabih
Community: Blaan Origin: Sarangani and South Cotabato
Tabih, in Blaan, refers to the native tubular skirt, and also to the textile, while mabal means “woven” or “to weave”. The Blaan weave the tabih using abaca fibres and the back-strap loom. The fibres are dyed using the warp tie-dye resist ikat technique and natural dyes from native plants. Designs usually depict crocodiles and tiny curls. The Blaan are also known to be accomplished embroiderers and the tabih is often meticulously embellished with embroidery. A practice traditionally reserved for women of high status, weaving has a strong spiritual context in Blaan society, believed to be the gift from Furalo, the goddess of weaving. Aside from the tubular skirts, the abaca textile is used for making garments for men, as well as covering important materials such as knives.” - Tatler Asia (https://www.tatlerasia.com/culture/arts/weaving-the-threads-of-filipino-heritage)
~Cabarrubia
