Iloilo Weaving Prosperity and Legacy
In the 18th century, Iloilo flourished as the Textile Capital of the Philippines, producing exquisite fabrics like sinamay, piña, and jusi. These handwoven masterpieces fueled inter-island trade and elevated Iloilo’s economic prominence, giving rise to a prosperous upper middle class.
During its peak, Iloilo boasted 60,000 looms creating fine textiles like nipis, highly prized by the elite. French writer Jean Mallat marveled at the artistry, calling Iloilo’s fabrics “bright and varied, commanding global admiration.”
However, the industry declined in the late 19th century with the influx of cheaper imported textiles and a shift to sugar production. The once-thriving textile trade faded, but its legacy endures as a proud chapter in Iloilo’s rich history.