In Support of Pinay Political Prisoners

Product Description

• Ganda means beautiful. Taray means sassy or fierce.
• Hand-crocheted earrings, 2x0.5 inches,
• A collective project of the women political prisoners at the Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong, Philippines.
• Designed by Alex Pacalda

About the Artist

Alex Pacalda, a then member of Gabriela Youth, was arrested without warrant by the Philippine Army in 2019 while consulting with farmers in Quezon. She was tortured and coerced into signing fabricated affidavits labeling her as a rebel surrenderee.

In 2023, she was wrongfully convicted of illegal possession of firearms and explosives—common charges used to silence activists. Alex’s case is emblematic of the state’s weaponization of the law against those who dare to resist.

Proceeds

GABRIELA’s Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign works to free women political prisoners in the Philippines. As Pinay Collection’s official community partner, we fully support their advocacy and the political prisoners of CIW through ongoing educational and fundraising efforts.

100% of the profits from Alex's earrings will go directly to FOSFO and the political prisoners of CIW, helping meet their essential needs within the correctional institute. 

Product Description

• Please note that Marilyn designed each bracelet to be unique in color, due to reasons such as limited resources within the prison. To honour Marilyn's creativity and work, customers can only choose the words woven on the bracelet, without a guarantee of the exact color design.
• Thread/ woven bracelet
• Comes with an adjustable strap
• This is a collective project of the women political prisoners at the Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong, Philippines.
• Designed by Marilyn Magpatoc
  

About the Artist

On October 14, 2014, Marilyn Magpatoc was sentenced to 19 to 21 years for the trumped up charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives after being arrested in a remote village in Davao Occidental, where she was campaigning against mining.

She was at first detained with male prisoners at the Davao Prison and Penal Farm. She described her time there as the "worst days of her life," fearing for her safety and health. When transferred to CIW, she was placed in isolation for a month without explanation, which she described as a torturous and unjust experience.

Proceeds

GABRIELA’s Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign works to free women political prisoners in the Philippines. As Pinay Collection’s official community partner, we fully support their advocacy and the political prisoners of CIW through ongoing educational and fundraising efforts.

100% of the profits from these bracelets will go directly to FOSFO and the political prisoners of CIW, helping meet their essential needs within the correctional institute. 

There is Tsismis in this Bag translates to There is Gossip in this Bag.

Being labelled a Tsismosa (gossiper) in Filipino culture carries a negative connotation, implying an excessive interest in other people's lives and the potential for spreading false information. While this may occasionally hold true, what about the aspect of a Tsismosa who genuinely cares about her community's well-being?

In the Philippines, information naturally flows through oral tradition, especially in communities lacking access to formal channels, prevalent in both urban and rural poor areas. This is why it isn't uncommon to see two or more people just chatting outside their homes, particularly in a landscape where stable employment opportunities are scarce.

In this context, having a space and community that discusses everyday issues creates a sense of solidarity among many women (the people our society often perceives as Tsismosas), providing a platform to address pressing concerns affecting families, including the price of goods, educational access, public services, and in some cases, even family violence.

In the Philippines, these are all typical topics one will hear in a regular 'gossip' conversation. Therefore, these tsismis sessions also help build community support, spread awareness about resources, and connect people in need to appropriate channels.

This is why a Tsimosa shouldn't solely be depicted as a mere rumor- spreading woman; often, she embodies the voice of the everyday Filipina, experiencing and vocalizing the daily challenges of society - a voice that refuses to be silenced.

Learn more about the topic of Gossip and Community Care through this Instagram post!

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• Tri-colour (green, white, beige), durable, 100% natural cotton canvas
• Dimensions: 14 x 16 inches; 9" drop

Beyond the Word

Before reading the narrative below, here's an important reminder that being a woman, a Filipina, does not necessarily mean having a Pekpek (Vagina). 💖

As a young Pina/xy growing up, how many of us have been shamed by talking about our period? How many of us were associated with being mataray, suplada or maldita just because it's that "time of the month"? How many of us have not learned about safe sex and sexuality at a young age because it's a topic that's deemed shameful? And because talking about our Pekpeks is deemed makasalanan (sinful)?

The creation of the Pekpek Power pin is definitely something we're extremely proud of. Kaya let's go! Help us normalize these conversations. Help us empower our Pekpeks!

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page.

Product Features

1.5 x 1.3 inch, acrylic pin with rubber lock

Beyond the Word

Maarte is a term often used to describe someone, usually a woman, as overly dramatic, nit-picky, or high-maintenance. It’s frequently wielded in a derogatory way to criticize someone who pays too much attention to detail—or even someone who expresses emotions or mental health struggles. For too long, Pinays have been treated with contempt for seeking more than what’s currently offered to them, or for daring to show vulnerability.

But by embracing kaartehan (the quality of being maarte) as a valid expression of character, creativity, and self-care, we pave the way for women to reclaim their right to be expressive and particular. This includes normalizing emotional expression and recognizing the importance of our mental well-being. When we assert ourselves or prioritize our mental health, we shouldn’t be dismissed or ridiculed for being maarte. It’s time to view maarte as a reflection of our ability to properly communicate our emotions, and  be creative in our aspirations—and to celebrate it as a strength, not a flaw.

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• Individually heat-pressed and checked for quality 
• Black sweater with 50% cotton, 50% polyester
• Soft feel and reduced pilling for no loose thread
• Set-in sleeves for a relaxed fit
• Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading
• Length is measured from the highest point on the collar down to the bottom hem
• Width is measured across the body of the sweater, one-way

Size Chart (in inches)

Beyond the Word

"Maarte is my childhood nickname. Everyone in my family calls me Maarte because I'm always too extra about everything. I would not go out without having my hair fixed. I would not wear something that is not ironed. I'd always wear some cheap but nice smelling kid's perfume. My family didn't have much growing up, but my Nanay and Lola always made sure I felt good about myself even as a young kid. I'm Maarte because of them. I'm Maarte because they built my confidence and made sure I know who I am." - Lavlie

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• 100% Cotton Shirt
• Color: Black

Care Instructions

• Our designs are heat pressed onto fabric. To ensure they last a long time, please only wash and tumble dry inside out. If you need to iron, only iron on the backside of the clothing. 
• Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading.

Size Chart (in inches)

• Length is measured from the highest point on the collar down to the bottom hem.
• Width is measured across the body of the shirt, one way. 

Unisex Sizing

Beyond the Word

"This sweater brought me to tears when I first saw it because finally there are Filipinas who see and understand their worth and know that their value is not dictated by anybody. I will never be someone who shames my Pamangkin for who they are, what they look like, and the lifestyle they want to live. I will simply love." - Naomi

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• Individually heat-pressed and checked for quality 
• Photo # 2: Model is wearing Large
• Off-white/beige sweater with 50% cotton, 50% polyester
• Soft feel and reduced pilling for no loose thread
• Set-in sleeves for a relaxed fit
• Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading
• Length is measured from the highest point on the collar down to the bottom hem
• Width is measured across the body of the sweater, one-way

Care Instructions

Our designs are heat-pressed onto fabric. To ensure they last a long time, please only wash and tumble dry inside out. If you need to iron, only iron on the backside of the clothing. Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading. 

Size Chart (in inches)

Laban Babae (Women, Fight! or Women, Resist!) is a design dedicated to Pinay activists and political prisoners whose stories testify that the struggle for liberation is grounded in the unwavering resistance of Filipina women.

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features 

• Corduroy style baseball cap
• Adjustable
• Hat circumference: 22.05 inches to 22.83 inches
• Height: 4.74 in
• Visor length: 2.75 in

Beyond the Word

As a young Pina/xy growing up, how many of us have been shamed by talking about our period? How many of us were associated with being mataray, suplada, or maldita just because it's that "time of the month"? How many of us have not learned about safe sex and sexuality at a young age because it's a topic that's deemed shameful? And because talking about our Pekpeks is deemed makasalanan (sinful)?

Reclaiming the word pekpek is recognizing its power, the reason for which we now assert female sexuality and body autonomy—stripping away the shame associated with our bodies. When we say pekpek power (vagina power) we emphasize that the female gender is equally important, capable, and strong. We address it directly to avoid downplaying its significance, ensuring that feelings of guilt don’t hold us back.

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• Color: Forest Green
• Please note that we recently switched to a looser fit style of sweater. Make sure to consult the size chart below before purchase.
• 50% cotton, 50% polyester
• Soft feel and reduced pilling for no loose thread
• Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading
• Length is measured from the highest point on the collar down to the bottom hem
• Width is measured across the body of the shirt, one way.

Size Chart (in inches)

Behind the word

Maarte is a term often used to describe someone, usually a woman, as overly dramatic, nit-picky, or high-maintenance. It’s frequently wielded in a derogatory way to criticize someone who pays too much attention to detail—or even someone who expresses emotions or mental health struggles. For too long, Pinays have been treated with contempt for seeking more than what’s currently offered to them, or for daring to show vulnerability.

But by embracing kaartehan (the quality of being maarte) as a valid expression of character, creativity, and self-care, we pave the way for women to reclaim their right to be expressive and particular. This includes normalizing emotional expression and recognizing the importance of our mental well-being. When we assert ourselves or prioritize our mental health, we shouldn’t be dismissed or ridiculed for being maarte. It’s time to view maarte as a reflection of our ability to properly communicate our emotions, and  be creative in our aspirations—and to celebrate it as a strength, not a flaw.

Proceeds

15% of the proceeds from this collection will support GABRIELA/ Free Our Sisters Free Ourselves Campaign and its work to advocate for and liberate the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• Black, 100% light cotton canvas
• Lightweight Tote
• Dimensions: 14 x 16 inches; 9" drop

As a young Pina/xy growing up, how many of us have been shamed by talking about our period? How many of us were associated with being mataray, suplada, or maldita just because it's that "time of the month"? How many of us have not learned about safe sex and sexuality at a young age because it's a topic that's deemed shameful? And because talking about our Pekpeks is deemed makasalanan (sinful)?

Reclaiming the word pekpek is recognizing its power, the reason for which we now assert female sexuality and body autonomy—stripping away the shame associated with our bodies. When we say pekpek power (vagina power) we emphasize that the female gender is equally important, capable, and strong. We address it directly to avoid downplaying its significance, ensuring that feelings of guilt don’t hold us back.

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page.

Product Features

• 100% Cotton Shirt
• Color: Forest Green

Care Instructions

• Our designs are heat-pressed onto fabric. To ensure they last a long time, please only wash and tumble dry inside out. If you need to iron, only iron on the backside of the clothing.
• Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading.

Size Chart (in inches)

• Length is measured from the highest point on the collar down to the bottom hem.
• Width is measured across the body of the shirt, one way. 

Unisex Sizing

Beyond the Word

"This brought me to tears when I first saw it because finally there are Filipinas who see and understand their worth and know that their value is not dictated by anybody. I will never be someone who shames my Pamangkin for who they are, what they look like, and the lifestyle they want to live. I will simply love." - Naomi  

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page.

For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• 100% Cotton
• Color: Off-white/Beige

Care Instructions

• Our designs are heat-pressed onto fabric. To ensure they last a long time, please only wash and tumble dry inside out. If you need to iron, only iron on the backside of the clothing. 
• Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading.
• Length is measured from the highest point on the collar down to the bottom hem.
• Width is measured across the body of the shirt, one way. 

Unisex Sizing (in inches)

Beyond the Word

For this new collection, we’re reclaiming the phrase “Kababaeng Tao” roughly translated as “You’re a woman and yet…”

Kababaeng Tao pero maingay. You’re a woman and yet you’re loud.

Kababaeng Tao pero nakabukaka. You’re a woman and yet you sit with your legs open.

Kababaeng Tao pero pasaway. You’re a woman and yet you just keep breaking the rules.

“Kababaeing Tao” is used to define us and ultimately exclude us, isolating those whom our society has denied the identity of a woman, including our trans and queer kapatids.

"Kababaeng Tao" is wielded as a weapon against our guilt, confining women to a box labeled 'proper', ‘submissive’, and 'nice'. Pinays deserve dignity and respect for who we are, not for conforming to some mold.

But no more. At Pinay Collection, we're committed to reclaiming what's been unjustly taken from us. We're unapologetically devoted to embracing and healing from the wounds inflicted by patriarchal words. We're determined to reclaim the identity we've always defined for ourselves, even if it's been disregarded by those around us. For far too long, the narratives of pina/xys have been dictated by voices other than our own. But now, we declare with conviction: 

Kababae kong tao at marunong akong lumaban. I am a woman and I know how to resist.

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• 100% Cotton
• Color: Black

Care Instructions

Our designs are heat-pressed onto fabric. To ensure they last a long time, please only wash and tumble dry inside out. If you need to iron, only iron on the backside of the clothing. Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading.

Size Chart (in inches)

• Length is measured from the highest point on the collar down to the bottom hem.
• Width is measured across the body of the shirt, one way. 

Unisex Sizing

Beyond the Word

For this new collection, we’re reclaiming the phrase “Kababaeng Tao” roughly translated as “You’re a woman and yet…”

Kababaeng Tao pero maingay. You’re a woman and yet you’re loud.

Kababaeng Tao pero nakabukaka. You’re a woman and yet you sit with your legs open.

Kababaeng Tao pero pasaway. You’re a woman and yet you just keep breaking the rules.

“Kababaeing Tao” is used to define us and ultimately exclude us, isolating those whom our society has denied the identity of a woman, including our trans and queer kapatids.

"Kababaeng Tao" is wielded as a weapon against our guilt, confining women to a box labeled 'proper', ‘submissive’, and 'nice'. Pinays deserve dignity and respect for who we are, not for conforming to some mold.

But no more. At Pinay Collection, we're committed to reclaiming what's been unjustly taken from us. We're unapologetically devoted to embracing and healing from the wounds inflicted by patriarchal words. We're determined to reclaim the identity we've always defined for ourselves, even if it's been disregarded by those around us. For far too long, the narratives of pina/xys have been dictated by voices other than our own. But now, we declare with conviction: 

Kababae kong tao at marunong akong lumaban. I am a woman and I know how to resist.

Proceeds

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page. For the updated donation amounts and transparency report, please check out this link.

Product Features

• Individually heat-pressed and checked for quality 
• Black sweater with 50% cotton, 50% polyester
• Soft feel and reduced pilling for no loose thread
• Set-in sleeves for a relaxed fit
• Wash in cold & hang to dry to prevent shrinking and fading
• Length is measured from the highest point on the collar down to the bottom hem
• Width is measured across the body of the sweater, one-way

Size Chart (in inches)