To safeguard its cultural heritage, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Mountain Province passed Provincial Ordinance No. 573, which prohibits all souvenir shops, garment stores, and online sellers in the province from manufacturing, distributing, or selling machine-made replicas of Cordillera indigenous woven materials and apparel in Mountain Province.

The ordinance emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional handwoven textiles—an integral part of Cordillera identity and livelihood.

Violators will face escalating penalties, a reprimand for the first offense, confiscation of items on the second, and confiscation plus permit cancellation for subsequent violations.

Approved on June 2, 2025, the ordinance affirms the province’s commitment to protecting the authenticity and integrity of indigenous weaving. (PIA Mountain Province)