Melo Villareal
Pinamana House of the Dela Cruz Family in Kalibo Aklan: A Brief Overview
Baeay Pinamana is a museum, an art gallery, and an eatery in Kalibo, Aklan. It is a testament to the rich history and contribution of the Dela Cruz family to Aklanons. The ancestral house was rechristened in honor of the Dela Cruz patriarch and matriarch whose hard work and dedication built the foundation of this ancestral house and the family. The tradition of pina cloth weaving has been passed down from generation to generation, and the Dela Cruz family has been at the forefront of this industry since colonial times.
Baeay Pinamana in Kalibo
The Dela Cruz family has been an integral part of the history of Aklan, and their contributions to the culture and tradition of the province are immeasurable. The family’s dedication to preserving the art of pina cloth weaving has ensured its survival for generations to come. The Baeay Pinamana is a living embodiment of this legacy, and it also pays tribute to the fallen patriots who fought for the country’s liberation.
Visitors to the Baeay Pinamana of the Dela Cruz Family in Kalibo, Aklan, can experience the rich history and culture of the Philippines through the eyes of one of its most prominent families. The Dela Cruz family’s commitment to preserving tradition and culture is a shining example of the importance of heritage in a rapidly changing world.
Historical Significance
Now known as the Pinamana House or Baeay Pinamana (meaning “house” in the Akeanon language), this charming residence holds a captivating history. Nestled on Calle El Porvenir (“The Future”), which was later transformed to Datu Bangkaya Ave. to pay homage to a figure in the Maragtas legend and eventually renamed Desposorio Maagma Street, this house serves as the cherished ancestral home of the Dela Cruz family.
Constructed between 1948 and 1949 following the ravages of war, it was proudly owned by Macario “Cayo” Murallo Dela Cruz, a renowned carpenter in Kalibo, and Irene “Ine” Maño Aguirre, the daughter of Roman Aguirre, one of the brave Akeanon Katipuneros who courageously stood against the Spanish oppressors in 1897.
Despite the passage of time, the Pinamana House retains much of its original character. While Lolo Cayo himself and his grandchildren have made some enhancements over the years, the timeless ironwood wooden posts and elegant Capiz shell windows remain intact, contributing to the house’s distinctive charm. Although safety precautions required replacing the old nipa roof with simple galvanized sheets, the sturdy concrete ground floor and resilient wooden second storey have withstood the relentless onslaught of typhoons that frequently batter the region. Undang in 1986, Frank in 2008, Yolanda in 2013, and Ursula in 2018 are noteworthy among these tempests.
The Pinamana House stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Dela Cruz family, the local craftsmanship of Lolo Cayo, and the remarkable resilience of Kalibo itself. With its rich history and architectural elegance, this cherished dwelling is a captivating ode to the past and a sight to behold for all who visit.
Historical Events
Baeay Pinamana has witnessed many historical events over the years. It was the site of many important meetings and gatherings during the Philippine Revolution against Japan. The local people also used the house as a refuge during World War II.
Baeay Pinamana is also associated with the memory of Cardinal Sin, a prominent figure in the Philippine Catholic Church. The Cardinal used the house as a meeting place when he visited Kalibo.
Cultural Traditions
The Dela Cruz Family’s Baeay Pinamana in Kalibo Aklan is known for its rich cultural traditions. The family has preserved and passed down these traditions from generation to generation, making it an important cultural landmark in the region.
Ati-Atihan Festival
One of the most famous festivals in the Philippines is the Ati-Atihan Festival, which is celebrated every January in Kalibo Aklan. This festival is a celebration of the town’s patron saint, Santo Niño, and is known for its vibrant and colorful street dancing. The Dela Cruz family has been actively involved in the festival for many years, and their contributions have helped to make it a significant part of the town’s cultural heritage.
Traditional Clothing
The Dela Cruz family is also known for their traditional clothing, which includes the Saya and Barong Tagalog. The Saya is a traditional dress worn by women in the Philippines, while the Barong Tagalog is a traditional shirt worn by men. These clothing items are made from the finest fabrics, and their intricate designs and patterns reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Ecclesiastical Artifacts
The Dela Cruz family’s Baeay Pinamana is home to several ecclesiastical artifacts, including religious statues, paintings, and other items of historical significance. These artifacts have been carefully preserved and restored over the years and serve as a testament to the family’s commitment to protecting the town’s cultural heritage.
The Pinanubli Art Gallery
Emmanuel Soviet Russia, grandson of Lolo Cayo and Lola Ine, rallied his cousins to save their ancestral house from demolition. Instead, they had a brilliant idea to transform the old house into a snack house and art gallery. And so, to honor their beloved Lolo Cayo, known as “Maestro Cayo” for his carpentry skills, and Lola Ine, who upheld the ancient tradition of Piña weaving, the grandchildren and great-grandchildren came together to open the Pinanubli Art Gallery in the historic Baeay Pinamana.
This unique gallery not only showcases the incredible works of Aklanon craftsmen and artists but also serves as a platform to support aspiring visual artists and celebrate the cultural heritage of Aklan. With a focus on preserving traditional crafts like wood carving, sarok weaving, piña weaving, hand embroidery, and talibong blade forging, the gallery wants to keep these ancient traditions alive, lovingly passed down by local artisans.
At the Pinanubli Art Gallery, you’ll find a magnificent collection of paintings, stunning sculptures, and captivating photographs produced by talented locals. For those curious about the weaving process, visitors can venture to the second floor and witness a skilled weaver expertly creating beautiful piña and other native fiber products on a traditional handloom.
Anna India A. Dela Cruz, another grandchild of Cayo and Ine, plays a vital role as the gallery’s resident artist, devoted to preserving their century-old legacy. Additionally, guests are encouraged to peruse a fascinating collection of books and pamphlets written by the descendants themselves, covering various subjects such as family life, local history, language dictionaries, the Akeanon translation of the New Testament, martyr stories, coloring books, and even emotional first aid.
The family’s dedication to preserving and promoting Akeanon cultural heritage extends beyond the gallery. They have donated some of the sales from the exhibits to children battling cancer as part of their cancer awareness advocacy. By doing so, they hope to positively impact the lives of those affected while honoring their ancestors’ memory.
The Pinanubli Art Gallery will feature the works of one or two local artists or traditional craftsmen each month. This marks an exciting new chapter in the journey of this seventy-year-old house and reaffirms its position as a true haven for artisans.
Collaborative Efforts
Memorandum of Agreement
Baeay Pinamana, owned by the Dela Cruz Family, has been recognized as a cultural and historical landmark in Kalibo, Aklan. To preserve and promote the province’s cultural heritage, the Dela Cruz Family collaborated with the local government and signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Cultural Council of Aklan.
The MOA stipulates that Baeay Pinamana will be recognized as a cultural and historical landmark and included in the province’s cultural heritage sites. The Cultural Council of Aklan will assist the Dela Cruz Family to preserve, restore, and promote Baeay Pinamana.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the Dela Cruz family’s ancestral house in Kalibo, Aklan?
The Dela Cruz ancestral house in Kalibo, Aklan, also known as Baeay Pinamana, is a heritage house in the Dela Cruz family for generations. The house is a testament to the rich history and culture of the Aklanon people, and the Dela Cruz family has played an important role in preserving this heritage. The house is a symbol of the family’s legacy and their contribution to the cultural heritage of the province.
How can one visit the Dela Cruz ancestral home in Kalibo, and are there any visitor guidelines?
The Dela Cruz ancestral home in Kalibo is open to visitors, but it is recommended to contact the family beforehand to schedule a visit. The family welcomes visitors but requests that visitors respect the house and its heritage. Visitors are also encouraged to take a guided tour of the house to learn about its history and significance.
What architectural features distinguish the Baeay Pinamana in Kalibo, Aklan?
Baeay Pinamana is a traditional Aklanon house that features a mix of architectural styles, including Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino. The house is made of wood and features intricate carvings and designs. The house also has a large central living area, with bedrooms and other living spaces surrounding it. The house is a prime example of traditional Aklanon architecture and design.
Can you provide information on the preservation efforts for heritage houses like the Baeay Pinamana in Kalibo?
Preserving heritage houses like Baeay Pinamana is an important issue in Aklan. The government has implemented various programs to preserve heritage houses, and the Dela Cruz family has also taken steps to ensure the preservation of their ancestral home. The family has worked with architects and historians to restore and maintain the house and opened it up to visitors to raise awareness about the importance of heritage preservation.
Are there any cultural events or festivities hosted at the Baeay Pinamana by the Dela Cruz family?
The Dela Cruz family annually hosts various cultural events and festivities at Baeay Pinamana. These events include traditional Aklanon celebrations, such as the Ati-Atihan festival, art exhibits, and cultural performances. The family is committed to promoting Aklanon culture and heritage, and these events are an important part of their efforts.
What is the role of the Baeay Pinamana in the local community of Kalibo, Aklan?
Baeay Pinamana is an important part of the local community in Kalibo, Aklan. The house is a symbol of the rich history and culture of the Aklanon people, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving this heritage. The Dela Cruz family is actively involved in the community, and they work to promote Aklanon culture and heritage through various initiatives and events.
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