Mountain province: Mountain Province Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan Jr. has ordered the immediate enforcement of a new ordinance banning the manufacture, sale, and distribution of machine-made replicas of indigenous woven fabrics and garments within the province. 'We have to protect our woven fabric, which is not just a livelihood but a part of the indigenous culture that was handed down from generations to us,' Lacwasan said in a statement on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the ordinance, known as Ordinance No. 573-2025, took effect in June and is aimed at protecting the authenticity and sustainability of traditional Cordillera weaving. This traditional craft remains a crucial expression of tribal identity and serves as an essential source of income for local communities in the region. The ordinance applies to all souvenir shops, garment stores, department stores, and online sellers operating in Mountain Province.

The measure underscores the rich weaving traditions rooted in the indigenous culture of Mountain Province. It warns that machine-made imitations pose a significant threat to the cultural and economic viability of genuine woven products, diminishing their value and authenticity. The ordinance emphasizes that this weaving is not only a symbol of cultural heritage and craftsmanship but also represents the tribal identity of various Cordillera tribes. For centuries, indigenous weaving has been a vital part of the Cordillera indigenous peoples' way of life, serving both as a means of cultural expression and as a crucial source of livelihood.

To preserve the culture and heritage of the Cordillera, the ordinance strictly prohibits the production and sale of machine-made copies. Businesses found violating the ordinance may face severe penalties, which could include the cancellation of their permits and confiscation of machine-made woven items.