Manila: The municipal government of Bangar, La Union, is actively working to preserve its inabel industry, facing challenges posed by an aging population of loom weavers, through various interventions. Public Employment Service Officer Rodrigo Sarmiento Jr. mentioned in a phone interview that there are currently 600 loom weavers in the town, with 20 to 30 percent being elderly. "Encouraging the young remains a challenge," he noted.
According to Philippines News Agency, the term "abel" is Ilocano for "weave," with "inabel" referring to the completed handwoven cloth. The local and provincial governments have initiated efforts to sustain the industry, including the establishment of a three-day training via the Abel Academy: School of Living Traditions Nogueras Weaving in Bangar in 2024. Additionally, the Young Loomweavers Association of Bangar (YLAB) was formed to safeguard and promote the tradition. This program immerses participants in the traditional craft, providing hands-on training under the guidance of experienced cultural bearers, introducing foundational techniques such as beginner weaving and operating the traditional loom, known locally as tillar.
The training courses not only equip participants with practical weaving skills but also foster a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of the industry. Phil Marie Lucina, the elected president of YLAB, expressed full support for preserving abel products in the province, emphasizing the need for future generations to experience this tradition. Lucina mentioned plans to innovate products to align with current trends, moving beyond traditional items like blankets and pillowcases to include hats, headbands, and dresses.
Sarmiento stated that while out-of-school youths are prioritized, students are also encouraged to undergo training at the Abel Academy. However, the program was discontinued in 2025 due to a lack of enrollees. Efforts are being made to integrate the program into the senior high school curriculum, particularly in special arts programs, though challenges remain in navigating the technicalities of such an inclusion.
The local government also supports the marketing of inabel products, providing yearly assistance and collaborating with national government agencies for training on creating souvenir items from abel. Sarmiento highlighted that Bangar's inabel products, such as blankets, hats, bags, and wearable clothes, are adaptable to different weather conditions.
