Miss Universe Candidates to Wear Muslim Fabrics During Pageant Night, Says DOT-ARMM

Cotabato City — The famous “Inaul” fabrics of Muslims in Mindanao will take center stage when the country hosts next year’s Miss Universe Pageant, officials said Friday.

Each of the candidates, according to organizers, will show off the famous “Inaul” fabrics by wearing it during the pageant night.

The colorful “Inaul” textile is produced mainly by Moro women in southern Philippines.

According to the Department of Tourism (DOT-12), Mindanao has rich tapestry of weaving traditions that spanned centuries. The Indigenous cultural communities throughout Mindanao had the hobby of weaving, making it some of their past time and source of livelihood.

For IPs and Muslims, weaving is more known as an expression of unique culture and identity.

Regional Secretary Ayesha Mangudadatu Dilangalen of DOT in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (DOT-ARMM) said the inclusion of “Inaul” fabrics in the upcoming international event came after popular Filipino fashion designer Renee Salud visited the ARMM booth during the Philippine Travel Mart.

Salud, according to Dilangalen, announced that the “Inaul” fabrics will be used by the candidates during the pageant night in Manila on January 30, 2017.

At a news conference, Dilangalen said it would be an honor and pride for Muslims, especially Moro women, because the fabrics will be recognized worldwide.(PNA) FPV/NYP/EOF