Uptown Bonifacio kicked off the holiday season with a grand celebration showcasing the art of weaving and Philippine textile.  

The “Festive Filipino Christmas,” in collaboration with CulturAid, a non-profit organization focusing on the empowerment and cultural preservation of indigenous communities, highlighted handcrafted creations from various regions. 

“We hope you’ll find inspiration in a deeper appreciation of our rich heritage and cultural diversity,” said Camille Elvina, Uptown Bonifacio’s general manager.

The event, attended by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, featured a 40-ft Christmas tree in the Uptown Mall Atrium adorned with over a thousand woven ornaments crafted by artisans from Lanao Del Sur, Marawi, Aklan, Iloilo, Albay and La Union, to name some. 

The intricate bows and highlights were skillfully made by CulturAid’s artisans using sinamay and abaca twine from Bicol, while tikog wet grass banig came from crafters in Mindoro, Aklan, Leyte, Negros Occidental and Iloilo. Decorations from CulturAid’s partner communities also embellished the mall.

“This collaboration with CulturAID is a testament to our commitment to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

We believe that the holiday season is the perfect time to showcase the beauty of our traditions and to create meaningful connections with our community,” shared Megaworld Lifestyle Malls head Graham Coates.

Guests were encouraged to support weaving communities by purchasing handwoven ornaments and products at the Threads That Unite Us booth on the ground floor of Uptown Mall.

CulturAid focuses on documenting, safeguarding, revitalizing and promoting Philippine cultural heritage through artisan craft, textile weaving, cultural travel and indigenous community preservation.