* Embroidery has ancient roots: Embroidery is a technique that has existed for thousands of years across the globe. It's likely that various cultural groups, including indigenous Filipinos, developed their own forms of embroidery independently.
* Trade and cultural exchange: The Philippines has a long history of trade and interaction with other cultures, including China, India, Spain, and the United States. It's probable that different types of embroidery were introduced through these exchanges over centuries.
* Evolution of techniques: Embroidery techniques and designs have evolved and adapted over time. What we see today is a blend of influences and innovations.
However, we can say that:
* Pre-colonial Philippines: Indigenous Filipinos had their own forms of embroidery, using materials like bark cloth and using needles and threads made from natural fibers.
* Spanish colonial period: The Spanish brought their own embroidery traditions, influencing Filipino techniques and designs. This led to the rise of Barasoain embroidery, which is still popular today.
* American colonial period: American influence also played a role, particularly in the introduction of new materials and tools.
Instead of focusing on a single person, it's more accurate to understand embroidery in the Philippines as a rich and diverse cultural practice that has been shaped by centuries of interaction and innovation.