𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮 𝗔𝗹𝗼𝗴 𝗛𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗜𝗬𝗔𝗠𝗔𝗡 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝗜𝗬𝗔𝗚 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

BENGUET, Philippines — Indigenous fashion advocate, creative entrepreneur, and cultural worker Maila Alog was recognized yesterday as one of the recipients of the prestigious IYAMAN Awards during the BIYAG Festival 2026 of the Benguet Provincial Government, receiving a Special Citation in Fashion for her continuing contributions to Indigenous-inspired contemporary fashion and cultural advocacy.

The recognition was formally presented during the festival’s closing and awarding ceremonies on May 14, 2026, graced by notable personalities including Benguet Governor Melchor Diclas, Hon. Alexander T. Fianza, Hon. Johannes A. Amwase, cultural leaders, artists, youth advocates, and stakeholders from various sectors across the province.

Following the awarding ceremony, Alog shared a heartfelt social media message expressing gratitude to the Benguet Provincial Government, the organizers of BIYAG Festival 2026, and the individuals who continue supporting cultural and creative initiatives rooted in Indigenous identity.

“Once again, special thanks to the Benguet Provincial Government led by Governor Melchor Diclas for being one of the IYAMAN Awardees having a Special Citation in Fashion. It is truly heartwarming to have my paternal roots in Bokod, Benguet highlighted and recognized,” Alog shared.

She further reflected that recognitions such as this serve as reminders of purpose and responsibility in sustaining Indigenous-centered creative work despite the many challenges faced in preserving traditional artistry and cultural platforms in modern times.

Known for championing authentic Filipino Indigenous handwoven textiles through platforms such as Habing Katutubo Collective Inc. on the national stage, Indigenous Fashion and Beyond (IFB) on the international stage, and M.A. Woven Designs through contemporary cultural fashion, Alog continues to advocate for culturally rooted artistry that honors Indigenous identity, craftsmanship, and collaboration with weaving communities.

Her initiatives have consistently emphasized co-creation with Indigenous communities while promoting the appreciation of traditional weaving traditions through modern and wearable silhouettes. Through IFB or Indigenous Fashion and Beyond, Alog also aims to bring Indigenous and Ibaloy artistry to global audiences by creating international cultural fashion platforms that connect designers, artisans, creatives, and diaspora communities through fashion, heritage, and storytelling.

The recognition likewise became a tribute to the many Indigenous weavers, artisans, cultural bearers, creatives, and advocates who continue preserving heritage through their artistry, resilience, and dedication.

As BIYAG Festival 2026 celebrated the culture, creativity, identity, and aspirations of Benguet, the recognition of Maila Alog highlighted the growing appreciation for Indigenous-inspired fashion not only as artistic expression, but also as a meaningful platform for cultural continuity, representation, and empowerment.