MATERIALS
The Tabungaw hat is made from gourds (upo) or kattokong nga tabungaw, which are hollowed out, dried, and lined with intricately woven rattan matting. The top half is varnished in a bright orange or red to increase longevity and resistance to the weather. Teofilo Garcia, who values authenticity in his art, manually grows and collects the gourd seeds, assuring the quality of the materials used in each hat.
RELEVANCE
IN THE MODERN WORLD
The Tabungaw hats today are being used as an expensive living room decoration for wealthy Filipinos, used as commencement caps in specific Northern parts of the Philippines like San Quintin High School, and used as presents to top leaders of other countries visiting the Philippines.
EMOTIONAL IMPACT
Teofilo Garcia has inspired local youths with his perseverance and love for his craft. His creations have earned him recognition globally and he continues to inspire others with his story and love for the craft. He hopes that his craft and other Filipino accomplishments and creations are continuously remembered, along with our beliefs, traditions, and values through the youth.