MAYOR BENJAMIN Magalong, Nov. 11, issued executive order no. 121, series of 2024, declaring the period December 3 to 6, this year, as the World Ikat Textile Symposium (WITS)-Baguio City with the theme, “Ties that Bind: Weaving a Defining Future”, and providing guidelines for the purpose.
It designates the Creative Baguio City Council (CBCC) as the official co-presenter of the event, in partnership with the city government,
December 3 to 6, 2024, declared as ‘World Ikat Textile Symposium’ in city
thereby authorizing the CBCC to oversee the event’s management and organization.
The order also en-joins all concerned government agencies, city departments and agencies to extend support to the endeavor and that the Baguio Tourism Council, business and private sectors shall extend all cordialities for the success of WITS.
The World Crafts Council Asia Pacific Region launched the inaugural WITS in
London in 2016 participated by Asian nations, Australia, South Pacific Islands, among others.
WITS seeks to provide a unified plat-form to celebrate the shared global tradition of ikat textiles to in-form and educate on diverse ikat traditions worldwide; to pro-mote cross-cultural exchanges on issues impacting ikat com-munities and heritage preservation; and to build connections among ikat artisans, craft organizations, scholars, and textile
enthusiasts. “Baguio’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Art, together with the Cordillera Region’s rich ikat traditions and heritage, uniquely positions the Summer Capital as an ideal host for this international event. This prestigious recognition highlights Baguio’s commitment to preserving cultural arts and fostering creative exchanges, making it a fitting tapestry for the celebration and promotion of ikat traditions from around the world,”
the Mayor’s order stated.**Gaby B. Keith
