Mats of The Philippines
In the warm and humid tropics, various cultures have devised ways and means to making leaving more tolerable, if not comfortable. The Philippines is no exemption and nowhere is this solution as obvious as in the Filipino use of variety of materials for making sleeping mats. Various species of reeds profusely grow in swampy areas, as well as a number of palm species, and rattan. These materials remain cool in the heat of the day, are smooth to touch, and porous enough to let ventilation through. Throughout the country one encounters a variety of mat making traditions using indigenously grown materials and embellishing these creations with highly imaginative designs.
A closer look at our mat tradition will attest to the artistry and the superb skills required to accomplish the intricacy evident in this woven works of art. There is only a limited data existing on the subject. With the rapid social changes going on the subject, there is a need to define what these traditions are. Fortunately, many of these traditions are still very much alive and it appears that it will remain relevant traditions for as long as the tropical weather endures.
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