Buntal Hat Weaving

Type: Intangible Heritage (Traditional craftsmanship)

Location: Virgendelas Flores, Baliwag, Bulacan (existing manufacturer/makers of buntal hat)

(c) Google

Brief Description

Buntal hat weaving is one of the traditional industries in the town of Baliwag. Buntal fiber is softened using a heavy wooden roller. These softened fibers are then weaved to make sombrero/sambalilo using the “close” or “sawali” weave. The finished product commonly referred to as balibuntal or balihat is being sold locally and abroad.

Significance

The hat-weaving industry was at its peak around the early 20th century (ca 1910s) as a cottage industry in Baliwag and continued to flourish even after the war. It differs with the buntal hats from other places (like Lucban where the buntal fiber was originally sourced) because of its fine texture brought about by the closely woven technique of weaving.

The buntal hat has become the symbol of the town, hence, an annual Buntal Festival is celebrated every month of May. The image of the buntal hat has been used also in various logos of businesses and institutions in Baliwag such as that of the Baliwag Transit bus company.