The textile weaving tradition of Abra and Ilocos is known for its diversity in colors, designs, and techniques employed by local weavers. While some textiles may initially appear to be simple plain weaves, a closer inspection reveals their intricacy and complexity. One such example is this binakol blanket, specifically known as the kulalabang. Kulalabang textiles are distinctively known for their appearance, which mainly features a combination of binakol and plaid textile designs. Some refer to the design as the tiny binakol due to the appearance of the motifs creating an optical illusion.

The specific binakol motif featured in this blanket resembles the kusikos or alipugpug patterns, which symbolize the wind god of the Itneg. Kusikos, or the whirlwind, is often identified and interchanged with the term alipugpug, or the whirlpool. Furthermore, Salvador-Amores (2019) pointed out that the resemblance of the motif to whirlwinds or whirlpools is meant to repel and confuse malicious spirits. This belief likely stems from the motif’s association with the wind god and the dizzying effect that emanates from the textile.