He has taken accountability over his previous statements.
In a post on his Facebook page, Filipino fashion designer Francis Libiran issued a public apology following a recent controversial statement he made on his platform.
He opened his statement by saying, “I got this wrong.”
“In describing Inaul as something I “weaponized” and made “dangerous,” I used language that was disrespectful to a living cultural heritage that is not mine to redefine. I also failed to present the piece with the cultural understanding and sensitivity that Inaul deserves,” Libiran furthered.
The designer then expressed his sincere apologies to the Maguindanaon people, especially Inaul weavers and cultural bearers, the wider Bangsamoro community. He also mentioned the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage offices in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, who called him out on the said post.
“Whatever my intention, it does not undo the impact of my words or presentation, and I take responsibility for both,” he added.
He told that he has removed the original post and is already formally reaching out to the BCPCH and Maguindanaon cultural representatives to “listen and seek guidance on the appropriate next steps,” adding that he will also pause further promotion of the controversial design while those conversations take place.
“I have spent decades advocating for Filipino artistry because I believe our local craftsmanship deserves to be seen, valued, and celebrated around the world. But I also understand that this purpose must be grounded in respect for the culture and the people behind the traditions I represent,” Libiran said.
He also hopes that this moment will become an opportunity for him to learn, collaborate, and do better.
“I remain committed to using fashion as a bridge; one that brings Filipino creativity and heritage to the world, while striving to better represent the Philippines with the utmost integrity and respect for the communities who have kept these traditions alive,” he concluded the statement.
Previously, the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH), through its Maguindanao Provincial Office, condemned and denounced what it called “deeply disrespectful and inappropriate use and public presentation of INAUL,” which is the traditional handwoven textile of the Maguindanaon people.
They particularly called out how it was portrayed in the statement entitled “Inaul Undone, Reborn” by Libiran, which the BCPCH said was “diminishing, sexualizing, or stripping a sacred cultural heritage of its meaning, dignity, and identity.”
“While the BCPCH recognizes the role of fashion, creativity, and contemporary artistic expression, artistic freedom must never be used to diminish, sexualize, misrepresent, or strip cultural heritage of its meaning, dignity, and identity,” it emphasized.
The Commission also emphasized that the Inaul is an icon of Maguindnaon Royalty’s living expression, identity, artistry, tradition, and the knowledge passed down through generations of weavers that carries pride to its people.
“It is deeply offensive to the Maguindanaon people, and this constitutes a serious concern regarding cultural appropriation, misrepresentation, and commodification,” the office continued.
They also compelled Libiran to issue an apology and expressed firm commitment to protecting, preserving, promoting, and mainstreaming the cultural heritage of the Bangsamoro.
“Inaul does not need to be stripped of its meaning to become relevant. It deserves to be understood, respected, and carried forward with the dignity it has always possessed,” the office closed their statement.