An international tribute with the authentic traditional Basque makila.
In a ceremony rich in symbolism and tradition, the President of the Philippines, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, received a Basque honorary makila from the lehendakari Juan José Ibarretxe. This gesture, more than a simple gift, embodies the recognition and respect that the traditional Basque staff has represented for centuries.
The piece was crafted using ancestral Basque craftsmanship techniques passed down through generations. It reflects precision, dedication, and the cultural value of the makila as an emblem of Euskal Herria’s identity. Its design combines functionality and symbolism, making it an outstanding example of high-quality makila manufacturing.
Before receiving the makila, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo visited Ordizia (Gipuzkoa), where, alongside the lehendakari, she inaugurated the Urdaneta Year, marking the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Basque navigator Andrés de Urdaneta. This event strengthened the historical and cultural ties between the Philippines and the Basque Country, highlighting the makila as a symbol of leadership, authority, and respect.
At Alberdi Makila, as expert makila manufacturers, we preserve this legacy, creating makilas that are not just a Basque staff, but true works of art representing history, pride, and tradition.
