12/08/2026
Calinog is truly proud!
A remarkable moment for our community as the Panay Bukidnon embroidery artists of Calinog, Iloilo proudly showcase the artistry and cultural heritage of our ancestors through the traditional Panubok embroidery in UNIQLO’s first Philippine Indigenous Heritage Patch Collection.
From Calinog to the national and international stage, our indigenous craftsmanship continues to tell the story of our people, our traditions, and our deep connection to our roots.
This recognition is more than just embroidery, it is a celebration of Calinog’s rich cultural identity and the incredible talent of our Panay Bukidnon artisans.
Padayon, Panay Bukidnon! Padayon, Calinog!
Our culture is our pride, and our heritage is our legacy.
MANILA, Philippines — Japanese retail giant UNIQLO has launched its first clothing patch collection featuring traditional Philippine embroidery, partnering with indigenous artisan communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The initiative marks the brand's first merchandise collaboration focused on Philippine indigenous heritage, timed with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines.
To create the one-of-a-kind patches, artisans used fabric scraps from Re.UNIQLO, the company’s apparel recycling program, alongside traditional embroidery methods.
Davao-based creative director Wilson Limon led the design collaboration through the National Commission for Culture and the Arts' School of Living Traditions program.
"Working with ethno-linguistic groups, my main mission is to recreate the traditional and the ethnic to make it more relatable to Filipinos," Limon said.
The collection highlights distinct regional craftsmanship:
• Luzon: Itneg artisans from Peñarrubia, Abra, crafted geometric Kukko patterns symbolizing agricultural productivity and hard work.
• Visayas: Panay Bukidnon embroidery artists from Calinog, Iloilo, used traditional Panubok techniques to create floral motifs reflecting ancestral beliefs.
• Mindanao: Tboli artisans from Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, produced designs inspired by local fauna and mountain landscapes.
The patches cost 300 pesos each, with all proceeds directly benefiting the artisan communities. Customers can purchase the patches and have them sewn onto used UNIQLO apparel at select repair hubs, including flagship locations in Makati, Pasay, Taguig, Cebu, and Davao.
"We want to reach out and partner with local communities," said Geraldine Sia, UNIQLO chief operating officer. "This is something that we are really aiming for so that we can give back to them."
(Photo courtesy of Uniqlo Philippines)
