In cover photo: Trade Commissioner Anne Marie Kristine Umali, Philippine Trade and Investment Center - Silicon Valley (fifth from left) and Philippine Consul General in San Francisco Neil Frank Ferrer (fourth from right), Parangal Attire Director and Paraluman Exhibit Curator Rex Dela Cruz ( 2nd from right) with officials and members of Parangal and the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco. (Photo courtesy of Alyssa Cortez)
In cover photo: Trade Commissioner Anne Marie Kristine Umali, Philippine Trade and Investment Center – Silicon Valley (fifth from left) and Philippine Consul General in San Francisco Neil Frank Ferrer  (fourth  from right), Parangal Attire Director and Paraluman Exhibit Curator Rex Dela Cruz  ( 2nd from right) with officials and members of Parangal and the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco. (Photo courtesy of Alyssa Cortez)

This message was echoed in the keynote address of DTI-Competitiveness and Innovation Group (DTI-CIG) Assistant Secretary Leonila Baluyut, who underscored the significance of traditional textiles—such as the T’nalak of the T’boli and the Yakan weaves of Mindanao—as cultural artifacts rich in history, identity, and storytelling. She highlighted that the Philippine creative industries contributed ₱1.94 trillion to the economy in 2024, representing 7.3% of GDP, with over 7.5 million Filipinos engaged in creative work.

A centerpiece of the celebration was the cultural exhibition curated by Parangal’s Attire Director and Paraluman Exhibit Director, Rex Dela Cruz, which showcased the artistic legacy and craftsmanship of indigenous women. Dela Cruz emphasized that each piece tells a deeper story of resilience and pride, reinforcing Parangal’s mission to amplify the voices of indigenous communities. Guests enjoyed a captivating Parangal Cultural Dance Company performance of traditional Sama and Tausug dances, celebrating the roles of indigenous women through live music and storytelling.

Attended by over 90 distinguished guests—including diplomats, business leaders, artists, and creative industry representatives—Paraluman celebrated the enduring influence of indigenous Filipino women through cultural pride, creative dialogue, and a networking mixer featuring Filipino food, beverages, and meaningful exchanges with artists and industry leaders.

Concluding the formal program, PTIC-SV Trade Commissioner Anne Marie Kristine Umali emphasized the strategic importance of the creative industries in advancing the Philippines’ trade and investment priorities. She reaffirmed the DTI’s commitment to empowering indigenous women as both cultural bearers and creative entrepreneurs—advocating for respect, appreciation, and responsible engagement with indigenous traditions. “As we celebrate the creativity and resilience of indigenous Filipino women, we are also showcasing the Philippines as a rising global creative hub—where tradition and innovation meet. Through the Paraluman exhibit and performance, we honor our artisans, designers, and performers, and we promote deeper appreciation and collaboration around Philippine culture,” said Umali.

Philippine Trade and Investment Center – Silicon Valley (PTIC-SV) Trade Commissioner Anne Marie Kristine Umali. Photo courtesy of Alyssa Cortez.
Philippine Trade and Investment Center – Silicon Valley (PTIC-SV) Trade Commissioner Anne Marie Kristine Umali. Photo courtesy of Alyssa Cortez.

Presenting Paraluman as a platform to position the Philippines as Asia’s premier creative hub, she highlighted the value of showcasing the works of Filipino artisans, designers, and performing artists to global audiences. TC Umali also invited attendees to explore the soft-launched PTIC-Silicon Valley SME Showroom, a B2B platform featuring rotating displays of Philippine textiles, fashion products, and home goods that connect Philippine MSMEs with U.S. importers, buyers, and Fil-Am entrepreneurs.

PTIC-Silicon Valley remains committed to advancing Philippine creative industries and MSMEs by championing heritage, innovation, and economic empowerment. Through initiatives and partnerships, it ensures indigenous Filipino artisans, designers, and cultural practitioners gain opportunities in the global market. ♦

Date of Release: 02 June 2025