Teofilo Garcia, an accomplished 81-year-old hatter from San Quintin, Abra, has been a master artisan since the age of 15, learning the art of basket weaving and crafting gourd casques from his grandfather. Despite his exceptional talent, he spends most of his time working as a farmer to ensure a bountiful harvest that can provide for his five children's education. During the months when his farm is not utilized for tobacco and rice production or caring for his herd of cows, he cultivates upo to create the traditional tabungaw, which he uses to make the revered kattukong or gourd hat. Recognizing his exceptional skills and dedication to his craft, he was awarded the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan in 2012. His self-sufficiency is well-known, as he personally gathers the round gourd tabungaw specifically grown for crafting kattukong hats.
Crafted from a split, polished uway or rattan inner frame and a woven nito and bamboo outer rim, the kattukong hat is Teofilo's masterpiece, and his passion for his creation has led to numerous orders. Through his personal efforts, word-of-mouth, and active participation in an annual harvest celebration in Abra, the practicality of using tabungaw as a unique alternative has been shared with many. Indeed, admirers of his work have visited him at his residence to commission their own all-weather headgear, further amplifying the appreciation of his unique skill. Teofilo's creations have been worn with pride by his satisfied customers, who have gifted them to loved ones abroad or displayed them as artistic treasures of the Philippines. A well-maintained tabungaw can last for up to three to four generations, and Teofilo's products are undoubtedly among the best available. With favorable weather, he can produce up to 100 pieces in a single year and intends to expand his gourd-growing area to meet the growing demand for his hats. His increasing exposure owes in part to the local government's regional agricultural fairs,
where he showcases his creations every year. As a Manlilikha ng Bayan, he is entrusted with passing on the art of kattukong-making to future generations, preserving cultural heritage and continuing the tradition. With dedication and sincerity, he is constantly researching other gourd species and alternative materials that could be used to create more unique and lasting gourd hats. His technique is now being taught to high school students in San Quintin, creating a foundation for cultural preservation.
Tabungaw, the remarkable gourd hat, is a true testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Filipino people. Planted in December and harvested in March, the gourds that Teofilo Garcia uses to create this unique headgear are carefully selected for their size and thickness. While the top half of the gourd is transformed into a sturdy and stylish Tabungaw, the bottom half is utilized as a household container. Weaving the intricate inner casing and lining that ensures comfort on the head is a laborious process that requires great skill and patience. On average, it takes seven days to complete one of these hats, which, if properly cared for, can last a lifetime. With its practicality and durability, the Tabungaw is not just a hat, but a symbol of Filipino craftsmanship and resourcefulness.
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