LUMBAN, Laguna (PIA) — The municipal local government unit of Lumban in Laguna called on the town’s younger generation to help carry forward their rich hand-embroidery tradition while using digital technology and creativity to bring ‘Burdang Lumban’ to new audiences and markets.
In her message during the celebration of the 25th Burdang Lumban Festival and 448th founding anniversary of the town, Mayor Belen Raga said the youth represent the next chapter of the town’s embroidery heritage and do not necessarily have to replicate the work of previous generations.
“Maaaring ang inyong generation ay digital na, creative na at mas marami nang machine for embroidery, mas connected sa mundo, at yon ay hindi kailangan maging banta sa ating tradisyon; higit na mahalaga pa rin na ipagpatuloy natin ang pagbuburda sa pagkakataong ito,” Raga stated.
Known as the “Embroidery Capital of the Philippines,” Lumban has long been recognized for its intricate hand-embroidered garments, particularly the traditional Barong Tagalog, Filipiniana dresses, gowns, and other formal wear.
The craft has been passed down through generations of local artisans and remains an important part of the municipality’s cultural identity and livelihood.
As technology transforms the way garments and designs are produced, Raga said the challenge for the youth is to find ways to innovate without losing the skill and cultural story behind every stitch, ensuring that Lumban’s identity remains alive and relevant in the modern era.
“Gamitin natin ang technology upang mas makilala ang Burdang Lumban. Gamitin natin ang creativity upang magkaroon ng bagong design, gamitin natin ang entrepreneurship para magkaroon ng bagong market, nguni’t ‘wag natin kalimutan ang ating tradisyon na pagbuburda,” Raga said.
The Lumban mayor urges townspeople to utilize social media and show the living potential that Lumbenos carry, as she believes that preserving local traditions doesn’t mean keeping it frozen in time, but rather keeping it alive while allowing it to grow.
With digital technology opening new possibilities for design, promotion, and commerce, Raga said the challenge is not to choose between tradition and innovation but to use innovation to help ensure that the tradition survives. (AM/PIA CALABARZON)