The Philippine Embassy in Beijing has proudly displayed an array of Filipino textiles and food products at the Southeast Asia New Year Market, which commenced on January 17, 2025. Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz shared on January 25 that the exhibit was a vibrant showcase of Filipino culture, featuring traditional fabrics such as piña, inabel, T’nalak, and ikat, which captivated the Chinese audience.
Piña, crafted from the delicate fibers of pineapple leaves, alongside inabel, a cherished weaving technique of the Ilocano community, and T’nalak and ikat, traditional weaves of the Tboli people, were among the highlights. Ambassador FlorCruz expressed his hope that these intricate and colorful textiles would not only delight the eyes of Chinese visitors but also offer them a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Filipino culture.
In addition to textiles, the embassy presented a variety of Filipino food products, including fruits from Dole, and snacks from Oishi and W.L. Foods, enhancing the cultural experience for attendees. The exhibit was supported by the Department of Tourism, the Office of Philippine Agriculture Counsellor, and the Office of the Philippine Trade and Investment Counsellor in Beijing.
Tao Lei, the organizer of the fair, emphasized that the New Year Market aimed to celebrate the diverse cultures of ASEAN countries, providing a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation.