14/05/2026
Preserving the vibrant art of Ga’dang virtuoso Amparo Mabanag
By Tuesday Javar
May 14, 2026
BAGUIO CITY — To honor the life and work of Amparo Mabanag and her contributions to the traditional Ga’dang arts of beadwork (Manu’bak) and embroidery (Ameru), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in partnership with the University of the Philippines Baguio (UPB) and the Cordillera Textiles Project (CORDITEX), resumed its workshop series on May 13.
Held at Museo Kordilyera, the event 'Continuity by Means of a Needle: Lecture and Workshop on Ga'dang Manu'bak and Ameru' began its first day on May 12. The second day of the workshop showcase focused on the intricate artistry of traditional beadwork embroidery.
Led by Mabanag’s sister, Ms. Margarita Balansi—also a Ga'dang weaver and advocate from Paracelis, Mountain Province—the session featured a comprehensive demonstration of beadwork techniques and an immersive, hands-on exercise for participants.
The legacy of Amparo Mabanag
Amparo Balansi Mabanag, 72, is a distinguished Ga’dang virtuoso and a recipient of the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (National Living Treasures Award). Conferred by the Philippine government in 2023, it is the state’s highest honor for the nation’s finest traditional and folk artists.
Mabanag’s journey began at age 14, when she first observed her aunt’s meticulous weaving. After only a few days, Mabanag demonstrated such proficiency that her aunt realized she had already mastered the process, beginning a career that continues to flourish today.
Preserving the culture for future generations
Now a master of her craft, Mabanag emphasizes that workshops are vital for preserving her heritage. By passing on these skills, she ensures that younger generations remain deeply connected to their cultural identity.
"I want them to have the opportunity to learn as well, because it is not right to withhold something beautiful from others," Mabanag said. "Let them learn, provided they treat the craft with respect and appreciation."
For Leonardo Gabriel Jr., a student at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – South La Union Campus, the workshop serves as a vital medium for cultural preservation.
"It is wonderful that this tradition is being passed down," Gabriel said in a mix of Filipino and English. "It reaches beyond their immediate community to others, carrying with it important lessons and the beautiful stories and meanings woven into every piece."
He added that these cultural bearers serve as an inspiration to advocate for and preserve the traditions that define the Filipino identity.
The workshop also presented an award to Racquel Dizon, a Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education student, for having the best output during the workshop.
Recognizing excellence in artistry
Dizon thanked the organizers and remarked that she enjoyed the beadwork process as a first-time participant. She further noted that such experiences serve to preserve Ga’dang culture, extending its reach even to those who are not part of the community.
During the closing remarks, Hon. Anastacia Viola, an alumna from the Ivatan community of Batanes, emphasized that they were recognizing not only the Manlilikha ng Bayan and the Ga’dang community, but the entire Filipino nation.
"There was excellence in today's workshop… we are in the process of achieving excellence, so let's keep working on our beadwork… and in due time, without even realizing it, we will be the ones sowing the seeds and enriching Filipino culture," Viola further expressed.
Photo courtesy of Amparo Mabanag
