The Philippine Consulate General in Toronto, led by Consul General Kristine Leilani R. Salle, officially launched the Reimagining Binakol: A Fashion Design Challenge with George Brown Polytechnic's (GBP) fashion students.
During the launch, Consul General Salle introduced students to binakol, a traditional fabric woven predominantly by Indigenous women from Abra, in northern Philippines. Known for its intricate geometric patterns that create a hypnotic optical effect, binakol has long been used in garments and blankets believed to ward off evil spirits.
Students were encouraged to creatively integrate binakol into contemporary workwear designs, highlighting the importance of Filipino textiles in preserving cultural heritage, promoting sustainable fashion, and strengthening connections between the Philippines and Canada.
The event drew 40 current fashion students, including several Filipino and Filipino-Canadian participants. GBP leaders including Senior VP & CFO Michael Herrera, Provost Dr. Hassun Malik, and Professor Cynthia Givens-Sanford also attended the launch. Professor Givens-Sanford will mentor students and serve as a co-judge for the competition.
The initiative coincided with Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month, celebrated each January, whose theme "Stitching Futures" emphasizes collaboration among science, creativity, and community to advance the Philippines' textile sector.
This project builds on GBP's ongoing collaboration with the Consulate, following earlier engagements such as the 2025 binakol weaving workshop and cultural discussions held during National Indigenous Peoples Month. Together, these efforts aim to elevate awareness and appreciation of Philippine weaving traditions among both the Filipino diaspora and Canada's broader creative community.
