Meet A Chirp Reader: Banig Story

Hey readers,

Did you read the story The Banig Festival that was in the March issue? Chirp reader Sophie sent us her own banig story and some photos, too. Check it out!

This is Sophie laying on her Lola’s (grandmother in Filipino) real-life banig! Wow, look at all those amazing colours! It looks just like the ones in the story.

When she was a kid, Sophie’s Lola used to sleep on her banig under a mosquito net. After reading the story, she let Sophie have a try! How fun!

Thank you so much for sharing with us, Sophie! We loved seeing your pictures and hearing your family’s special banig story.

Have a great day,

-Beckie, chirpblog@owlkids.com

Meet an Author

Writer Mila Philipzig

Hi everyone!

Did you read the story, The Banig Festival, in the March issue of Chirp magazine? It was written by author Mila Philipzig and illustrated by her childhood friend, Aura Asuncion Yambao. Mila and Aura both grew up in the Philippines so Mila wanted to tell a story that was inspired by the Banig Festival that takes place there. The bridge in the story, that the main character is afraid to cross, was even inspired by a real bridge! Let’s learn more about Mila and her story.

Mila’s son walking across the bridge from the story.

What gave you the idea to write about the Banig Festival?

I love banigs (traditional handwoven mats) and have fond memories of sharing them with my siblings and cousins for afternoon siestas (naps). The banig-weaving industry is not flourishing in the Philippenes anymore and I wanted to call attention to banig, to the festival, and to celebrate these beautiful traditional mats.

How long have you been writing for kids? 

Seven years.

Banigs are very colourful. What is your favourite colour?

Purple!

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Mila!

Have YOU ever been to a festival that was special to you? Leave a comment and tell us about it!

• Jackie