In a heartfelt gesture, the Ilocos Norte government has announced a PHP1 million gift for Magdalena Galinato Gamayo, a revered national living treasure who celebrated her 100th birthday in August. The announcement was made by Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc during a press conference on November 29, 2024, in Laoag City. The funds, drawn from the provincial government’s general fund, are intended to support Gamayo’s personal well-being, covering her medical expenses and daily living costs.
Governor Manotoc plans to personally visit Gamayo at her home in Barangay Lumbaan-Bicbica, Pinili, to present the check. He emphasized that this gesture is a way to honor and recognize Gamayo’s invaluable contributions to the nation. The governor also noted that the provincial government was unable to celebrate her birthday with a gift, making this donation even more significant.
Magdalena Gamayo, affectionately known as Lola Dalen, is a master weaver who has dedicated her life to the art of inabel, the traditional weaving of the Ilocano people in Northern Luzon. Despite her age, she continues to mentor new generations of weavers at the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) Cultural Center, located near her home. The center, in collaboration with the Department of Education, offers free inabel weaving training programs under Lola Dalen’s guidance.
Inabel weaving is a meticulous craft that involves several steps, from preparing cotton threads to the final weaving on a loom. Gamayo finds great fulfillment in seeing young people master this art, preserving a legacy that has been passed down through generations. Her dedication to keeping the inabel tradition alive is a testament to her commitment to cultural preservation.