I love historical shots like these
The "clothe" they are embroidering are made from "pinya" ( pineapple fiber) or sometimes "jusi" (abacca or abaca fiber, in banana family) or banana silk. It's very "airy" which in a climate that approaches upwards of 100F (38C) and 100% humidity is pretty essential.
Many ladies in the film are wearing Mestiza dresses made from same cloth they are embroidery. Another Philippine classic, the Barong Tagalog is made from the same material. It's the "Philippine Formal Wear" for men (and women).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barong_Tagalog
Some of the women working are in prisons for "crimes of passion". Rule of caution: never cross a Filipina, it can be hazardous to one's health.
It's possible to get the same type of hand-made embroidery from the Philippines today. An elaborate wedding dress can be had in Manila in one of the stalls at the Divisoria market.