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Innovative shell craft

DUBAI — The Murex, the Turbo, Nautilus, Split Pearl and the Spiny Melon Shell might be mere names of shells for many amongst us, but for the Philippines, it is a source of national pride, for amongst all the South East Asian countries they are right on top with regard to shell craft.

The Philippines is quite easily accepted as the pioneers in this craft in the region and the craft is several 100 years old.

The most popular shell used in the making of several utility items is the Capiz, a shell that has already undergone processing. And from this processed shell, the inner part is scooped out to make various goods.

The products made from these shells are one of a kind and not found in any other pavilion, for they are truly exclusive to the Philippines.

This is also what occupies pride of place in the Philippines Pavilion in Global Village, a member of Tatweer.

“The shell craft is so unique and innovative that our craftsmen make exquisite chandeliers, curtains, boxes, food covers and innumerable other items from shell. The Philippines is a truly remarkable nation comprising 7,700 islands and shell is one commodity that is found in abundance in almost all the islands. And the local population put this natural resource to commendable use,” explains Lucille Ong from the Philippines Business Council, and organisers of the pavilion.

Woodcarvings

Another product that brings with it the essential flavour of Philippines is the woodcarvings and other handicrafts — some of these made with glass and wood combination, some others with intricate bamboo work.

And the 750 square metres pavilion and the 37 retail units are filled with a mesmerising array of these indigenous products from the island nation. Most of the handicrafts are brought from the northern part of the Luzon Island — from a place called Baguio that is famous particularly for woodcarvings.

Food items

With regard to food items there is a complete spread of different kinds of chips — famous amongst them being the banana chips, dried mango chips, corn chips and the different flavoured potato chips.

“Also cooked and served in the pavilion are the fish balls, squid balls and chicken balls. While the balls are by themselves pretty bland, what adds the famous Philippines taste is the chilly sauce that is special to our country. This is very popular and the variety of sauces our kitchens can throw up is truly amazing.”

The facade of the Philippines pavilion is that of a huge mask with a story behind it. The Masskara is the annual Mask Festival in the Philippines, particularly in the Bacolod region in the Panay Island.

“It is celebrated in October and it is a harvest festival, when the farmers offer thanksgiving for a good crop and produce. This festival is celebrated with huge masks and extends over 2 to 3 days. People from the community, children from the schools are seen wearing various kinds of masks and colourful costumes and dancing in the streets, expressing their joy and offering their gratitude for a good harvest.”

Enjoying a tropical climate, Philippines is also famous for its attractive national dress — the Barong Tagalog for the men and the Meztiza for the women. The butterfly sleeves of these women’s dresses add the touch of womanly grace to the ensemble.

In addition, the Bayanihan that is to be performed at the Global Theatre in the Global Village from January 21 to February 2 has 25 young dancers and musicians offering a spectacular performance.

With a blend of the local rhythm and style, the dance exhibits a rich amalgamation of Chinese, Indian, Mexican and Spanish influence.