RESEARCH DATA:

Kinamayan is characterized by a diamond twill-woven indigo background, lengthwise white and red bands, and multiple embroideries embellishing the cloth. An innovation by textile revivalist Patis Tesoro, this skirt retains all other characteristics except that it is in plain weave. A striking element is a braided thread on top of each red band, which extends beyond the side edges of the skirt to create tassels. Embroidery designs include stars (sinan-bituen), rice stalks (palay), and lizards. The term “kinamayan” translates to "hand-made" or "handwoven," alluding to the hand-embroidered elements of the skirt. Traditionally, the kinamayan is utilized during various rituals, such as the dawak, diyaman, and allap, which are performed to honor and appease deities; often linked to their farming practices, protection, and healing functions (Aquino, 2005; Respicio, 2000). It is typically worn by a diviner or priestess (locally known as manganito), and is often accompanied by tadek, the traditional Itneg or Tinguian dance (Respicio, 1994).