Babae Barong Tote

The Babae Barong Tote pays tribute to the women who get called names imposed on them by society—names that sought to silence, but instead became seeds of strength and reclaiming power over the words meant to wound.

Words found in the tote include: walang hiya (shameless), mahina (weak), walang utang na loob (ungrateful), makulit (pesky), madaldal (chatty), suplada (snob), gaga (silly), makasarili (selfish), tsismosa (gossiper), baliw (crazy), maarte (extra), bruha (witch), maldita (bitchy), malandi (flirty), babae (woman).

Product Features

• A barong is a traditional Filipino formal shirt. Our barong tote is crafted from a mix of Jusilyn fabric—a blend of silk and polyester—and piña (pineapple) fibers.
• The print, designed by Pinay Collection founder Jovie Galit, is fully embroidered onto the fabric by our partner artisan in Laguna, Philippines, who also sources, sews and dyes the bags.
• Totes are double-lined ensuring it's not sheer and can protect your items.
• The tote measures 10 x 15 inches.

Proceeds

15% of each tote sale supports movements advancing the rights and justice for Pinay political prisoners in Mandaluyong, farmers and peasant communities in Batangas, and the LGBTQIA+ liberation movement in the Philippines. All in support of our community partners in the Philippines, GABRIELA/Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves, Bahaghari, and Sugarfolks Unity for Genuine Agrarian Reform.

Care instructions: 

• Since the Black Barong totes are dyed, please do not put in the washer or soak in water.
• To clean, lightly rub the soiled area with small amount of water and detergent. Do not scrub harshly. Use cotton buds or any light cleaning material as tool.
• Do not iron. Steam at low.
• Tip: To protect your barong, consider using a professional dry cleaner if needed.