KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — South Cotabato’s iconic T’nalak has earned one of the country’s highest distinctions for heritage products after the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) formally awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) Registration Certificate for T’nalak Tau Sebu during the recently concluded T’nalak Festival.
Argie Asaria, Senior Tourism Operations Officer, said the prestigious recognition affirms the authenticity, quality, and distinct geographical origin of the sacred woven textile crafted by the Tboli dreamweavers of Lake Sebu.
“The recognition provides stronger legal protection against counterfeiting while preserving the rich cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and identity of the Tboli people for future generations,” Asaria said.
Jennifer Tupas, Municipal Tourism Officer of Lake Sebu said the GI recognition indicates recognizes collective efforts of the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, the Municipality of Lake Sebu, national government agencies, and the Tboli weaving communities in safeguarding one of the province’s most treasured cultural symbols.
“For generations, the Tboli people have woven T’nalak from hand-stripped abaca fibers using intricate techniques inspired by dreams, earning them global recognition as “dreamweavers.” More than a handcrafted textile, T’nalak embodies the spirituality, history, artistry, and cultural identity of the Tboli people,” Tupas said.
Tupas said, with its GI registration, only authentic T’nalak produced within its recognized geographical origin and in accordance with established traditional practices may carry the name T’nalak Tau Sebu.
“The designation strengthens intellectual property protection, prevents misuse of the name by counterfeit products, and preserves the integrity of a weaving tradition that has been passed down through generations,” he explained.
The achievement marks a significant milestone in the continuing journey of T’nalak. Having first received a Collective Mark from IPOPHL in 2017, T’nalak has now advanced to Geographical Indication status, joining an elite group of Philippine heritage products that includes Guimaras Mangoes, Aklan Piña, and Alburquerque Asin Tibuok—products recognized for their unique origin, authenticity, and cultural significance.
Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. described the recognition as a victory not only for South Cotabato but, more importantly, for the Tboli communities whose artistry has preserved the tradition of T’nalak weaving for generations.
“This Geographical Indication is more than a legal recognition—it is a tribute to our Tboli dreamweavers whose artistry has become a symbol of South Cotabato’s identity. By protecting T’nalak, we are preserving our culture, empowering our indigenous communities, and creating greater opportunities for future generations while ensuring that the authenticity of this sacred craft remains respected around the world,” Governor Tamayo said.
Beyond protecting a cultural treasure, the GI registration is expected to create greater opportunities for the province by boosting consumer confidence in authentic T’nalak products, expanding market access for local weaving communities, promoting sustainable cultural tourism, and supporting inclusive economic growth anchored on indigenous heritage.
The Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to champion initiatives that preserve the province’s rich cultural legacy while empowering indigenous peoples through sustainable livelihood and heritage promotion. The Geographical Indication recognition of T’nalak Tau Sebu stands as a lasting testament that development is most meaningful when it honors the people, traditions, and identity that define South Cotabato.
With this historic achievement, South Cotabato further strengthens its position as a steward of one of the Philippines’ most treasured cultural traditions, ensuring that the legacy of the Tboli dream weavers will continue to inspire pride, protect authenticity, and flourish for generations to come.
The ceremony was witnessed by Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., Vice Governor Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr., members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Board Member Allan M. Alman, representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), officials of the Municipality of Lake Sebu headed by Mayor Antonio B. Fungan Jr., Municipal Tourism Officer Dr. Jennifer Tupas, and officers and members of T’nalak Tau Sebu Inc.
