Magdalena Gamayo

​Magdalena Gamayo is known as a master weaver of “Inabel”, a type of fabric indigenous to the Ilocos region. Inabel is distinguished for its intricate pattern and durability, crafted from cotton. Magdalenas expertise lies specifically in the art of weaving these traditional Illocano fabrics into patterns such as “Kusikos” (Spiral forms similar to oranges), “Inuritan” (Geometric design), and the most challenging design “Sinan-sabong” (Flowers). She is celebrated for preserving and innovating this art form.

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The art of it, is not mastered in one night, it is mastered through repeated process. Magdalena Gamayo learned to weave at the young age of 16 years old without proper tutorial, purely by observing her aunts. Throughout her life, she not only maintained the tradition of weaving but also passed her skills to others in her community. One of the most meaningful experiences in her career was creating designs on her own, experimenting with new patterns, and improving the inabel weaving techniques. 

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Gamayo’s dedication to her craft and sharing it with others contributed significantly to the preservation of Ilocano heritage. Teaching younger generations was particularly important to her as a way to ensure that this traditional craft does not disappear. Despite the labor-intensive and often unrecognized work, Magdalena remained committed to weaving, as it was a deep connection to her culture and community.