Estrellita Godwino: Tboli Artistry Across Generations

From grandmother to mother to daughter to niece, the Godwino women of Lake Sebu are keeping the heart of Tboli culture alive through artistry, skill, and dedication.

This is Estrellita Marcelo Godwino.

Designer. Weaver. Entrepreneur. Cultural performer.

A woman shaped by the hands of the women before her. Guided by her mother, Elena Ali Godwino, she learned to sew, bead, weave and create with passion and purpose. Surrounded by her nieces including young artisan Rachel Ann, she now passes those same teachings on to the next generation.

The Marcelo-Godwino family’s creations have reached the global stage. One of their handcrafted pieces, a Kegal Bensuwit blouse of woven fabric adorned with Mother of Pearl beads, was worn by Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, sharing the beauty of Tboli craftsmanship with audiences everywhere. It was a moment of cultural pride shining on the world stage. When the world sees their artistry, the world also sees who they are. Their identity. Their history. Their strength.

Every stitch tells the story of their ancestors.

Every bead honors their land and their community.

Every design carries the dream that Tboli culture will continue to thrive.

The Dreamweaver Collective is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to uplifting Indigenous Filipino artisans like Estrellita through sustainable livelihood and cultural advocacy rooted in respect and authenticity. Support Indigenous artistry. Support their future.