Proudly Philippine-made

Not quite Western, but not typically Asian either. The Philippines’ long history of migration and colonization has resulted in multiculturalism, or a culture
that incorporates various foreign influences in the native ethos. In a country such as ours where a free exchange of ideas is encouraged and creativity is allowed free rein, the result is a rich and unique style where primitive cool goes well with contemporary chic.

Creativity and artistry are inherent qualities for both native artisans and modern Filipino designers. Their skill, craftsmanship and painstaking attention to details are recognized and appreciated internationally. The Filipino word for this is “mabusisi,” and the trait is definitely not a bad thing. It ensures that the best effort is exerted and products are of excellent quality.

At SM’s Mall of Asia, balikbayan shoppers and local collectors can conveniently get the best Philippine-made products from all over the country. As pasalubong items for friends and family, or to keep for their personal collections, these proudly Philippine-made products are treasures that will surely be appreciated and cherished.

A rich and eclectic mix at Kultura Pilipino

There are finely-beaded bags, sandals and belts, delicately embroidered table linen and long strings of white or pink pearls. Modern and chunky shell and stone necklaces share the limelight with delicate silver jewelry, and both are equally eye-catching. Furniture fashioned from solid blocks of hardwood dominates a section, while various religious icons and patron saints line some shelves.

An engrossing mélange of everything that Filipinos like to collect can be obtained from Kultura Pilipino, which is touted to showcase the best of Philippine crafts and design. Whether one prefers traditional carvings of bulols or rice gods from the Mountain Province, or sleek and contemporary pieces by modern artisans, these can be obtained at the Mall of Asia outlet. Filipino classical and modern music is also available at the store, and on our visit there, the Hiligaynon folk song Dandansoy was playing as we explored the treasure trove. It brought back good memories of childhood piano recitals in the old hometown.

Kultura Pilipino is at the 2nd Floor Main Mall, North Wing, with telephone number 556-0416.

Gifts for home at Regalong Pambahay

“Out of the dreariness / Into its cheeriness /Come we in weariness /Home,” writes author Stephen Chalmers. Home is where we take refuge from the bustle and tedium of the world. It is our personal space where we can relax, be ourselves and reinvigorate. As such, we try to transform our homes into cocoons of comfort. The attractive items at Regalong Pambahay, help turn our abodes into our own personal castles. The well-thought-out items lend a comfortable, contemporary and modern feel to our homes.

Regalong Pambahay is at the Ground level of North Arcade, with telephone number 556-0196

Atin Ito is for all of us who want to have fun

The displays are enough to stop you in your tracks, and you absolutely  need to stop and investigate. The colors, variety and huge inventory may give you a visual overload, but if you are Filipino and love the “butingtings,” you’ll surely enjoy checking out the items in the store.

The shell and bead necklaces and bracelets are presented so that they form a veritable curtain of fun, iridescent jewelry. Rows upon rows of assorted “barrel-men” make a droll display, and a coconut triptych with crocheted yarn figures attached to it portrays rural scenes. The shopper may also lust after the wooden bags inlaid with shell and stone. One marvels how so much great stuff can be packed in such a small store.

Atin Ito is at the 2nd Floor, Main Mall South Wing, with telephone number 556-0219

World-Class Filipino bags by Aranaz

“Woah. Woah woah woah woah,” wrote an influential fashion blogger in 2007, “Filipino handbag brand ‘Aranaz’ was mentioned on the Tyra show (“How to Spot Fakes” episode). Congrats! Do I smell a price increase? Ladies, run, don’t walk, run... and buy those Aranaz bags.”

 Amina Aranaz-Alunan caused a stir in the fashion scene with her ingenious, ethnic bags fashioned from banig, shell, wood and other local materials. The color combinations are catchy, the shapes and sizes are unique and practical, and the bags are designed and constructed so that they are really useful and do their job. Plus, you won’t have to sacrifice an arm and a leg. It makes a lot of sense to buy not one, not two, but several Aranaz bags.

Aranaz bags are available at Hush, 2nd Floor Main Mall, South Wing with telephone number 556-0593