The waterproof hat, known as a Kattukong, is constructed from Upo (tagalog) or Tabungaw (Ilocano), also known as Bottle Gourd or White Pumpkin, and belongs to the Cucurbitaceae plant family. The seeds are sown in December, and the crop is picked three to four months later in March, and brought down to his studio to be cured and dried. The gourds are sliced open with a handsaw and the halves are deposited on the ground near his home. They are left for approximately a month to let nature to take its course. Ants are drawn to the rotting pulp and assist in cleaning the insides of the case, leaving it empty. It's then hand-finished and let to dry entirely.
The Tabungaw is made entirely of the upper half. The bottom half may be utilized for a variety of storage needs throughout the house. The Tabungaw is then colored and lacquered when it has dried. Any flaws on the gourd are left alone, contributing to its appealing appearance. Next comes the most time-consuming and difficult portion. This is the woven interior of the bamboo inner casing and lining. Anahaw, nipa, bamboo, and/or rattan make up the woven interior. Only a few hundred Kattukong are manufactured each year, and each Tabungaw takes an average of seven days to change into a hat that will last a lifetime if properly cared for. The headgear is also called as "Strongkis" in the area.
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