Maxy Iniego P.

Felongco September 18,2023

BSP - PHA231

Customs & Traditions in Taytay, Rizal

1. Taytayeños’ love for garment and clothing

Taytayeños love for clothing is unmatched as Taytay itself is considered the garment capital of
the world. It is the skill of craftmanship that is passed down from generations that made it possible
for the Taytay to earn that title. This also not only use for the sake of business and selling clothes,
but it is more about of the art behind those clothes. Each of the clothes visuals where individually
designed by skillful Taytayeños not only to appeal on their customer but also to express their
feelings through that. In the present day we can still evidently see that Taytay is still a garment
capital because of the wide market share in clothes because of the “tiangge”.
2. HAMAKA Festival

The HAMAKA Festival is celebrated on the third week of the February. HAMAKA is an abbreviation
of "Hamba," which means woodwork, "Makina," or the sewing machine, and "Kasuotan," which
Taytay is famous for. It is celebrated as a thanksgiving event to Taytayeños hard work and a
tribute of honor to Taytay's history on how it earned the title of "Woodwork Capital of the
Philippines" and "Garment Capital of the Philippines". It also serves as an event that brings the
Taytayeños closer together and unified.

3. San Juan Paligo/Basaan or Wattah Wattah Festival (Saint John the Baptist’s Feast)

San Juan “Paligo” is celebrated every 24th of the June in Taytay to celebrate the feast of nativity
of Saint John the Baptist. Taytayeños gather to their parish and homes to soak themselves in
water by throwing water using hose and any other things they can use to splash water. It is
celebrated to commemorate the life of Saint John the Baptist in the bible and his values and
lesson taught to the Taytayeños. Not only this festival is deeply rooted in the religious belief of
the Taytayeños but it also serves as a way for us to unwind from our busy schedule, and bond
with our families. Thus, such festival like San Juan Paligo/Basaan or Wattah Wattah Festival
serves significance to Taytay’s history and unity as a community.

4. Taytayeños’ Value for Woodwork

Taytay, known as the "woodwork capital of the Philippines," holds a deep appreciation for
woodwork, where values are held in high regard. The Taytayeños possess a unique and
exceptional skill set, crafting woodworks that reflect both distinction and pristine craftsmanship.
These skills have been passed down through generations, tracing their roots to our ancestors.

Notably, Taytay's woodworks not only captivate with their aesthetic appeal but also impress with
their durability, thanks to the locally sourced materials used in their creation. These remarkable
works of art serve as a medium for Taytayeños to express their creativity and leave an indelible
mark on the identity of Taytay itself. The undeniable proof of their work and skills shines through
these exceptional creations.
5. Taytay’s Textile Tradition (Design)

Taytay cherishes a vibrant textile tradition embodying its cultural and artistic heritage. This
tradition is rooted in creativity and craftsmanship, prominently features intricate hand embroidery,
known for its vivid colors and ancestral techniques. A symbol of beauty and cultural legacy, the
renowned "Taytay Gowns" are elegantly embroidered dresses worn during special occasions, like
weddings and fiestas. Taytay's textile tradition also encompasses finely woven fabrics, such as
the versatile "hablon," used in clothing and decor. Recently, this tradition has gained global
recognition as local artisans and designers modernize it while preserving its essence. Taytay's
evolving textile tradition not only enriches the town's cultural identity but also appeals to
aficionados of fine craftsmanship and artistry worldwide.