Mahal Kita Tee

Beyond the Word

The design and anting-anting (amulet) of this sweater is straightforward. It is an image of a person embracing themselves completely with the words, mahal kita around it. The ambiguity of who this prayer is being said to (is it you, the reader, or you the wearer?) mirrors the deep understanding that unconditional love requires us to acknowledge our wholeness and that of others. For extra support, we have added, “sakto lang, hindi nagkulang” (meaning just right, nothing less) on the inner sleeve specifically for the wearer. We want to remind you that you are made exactly right and nothing about you was ever missing. You have always been whole. 

In this system, we are taught to focus more on our lack. Systems of oppression will amplify our shadows, the parts of ourselves that are made to hide because of fear, shame, rejection, or whatever else so that we can disconnect from our whole sense of being and instead comply with a false source of a higher power.

This is why to say, “mahal kita”, is such a powerful prayer and spell. The Tagalog double meaning of mahal says, I love you, and I value your wholehearted existence in my life. This is why people say love is revolutionary. It liberates and affirms all our authentic ways of being.

Design and Artist statement by Althea Balmes

15% of the proceeds from this collection will support Bahaghari PH 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

• Made from 100% Heavy Cotton
• Color: Beige/ Natural

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