A local streetwear brand is turning the term “buwaya” into a statement.
Identity Apparel recently launched the Buwaya Tees Collection—a fundraising effort for the victims of recent typhoons and flooding across the country. In a trending post online, the clothing brand announced that a portion of every purchase from the limited-edition collection will go straight to relief efforts in support of affected communities.
Each bundle bought includes a statement shirt against corruption, highlighting recent issues such as “ghost projects” that have been approved and funded but never completed, nepo babies flaunting their lavish lifestyle from misused funds, and a comical display of crocodiles as a symbol of corrupt officials. The set includes matching socks and free shipping.
The brand’s focus is to let Filipinos “wear their frustration” as a symbol of protest while having a positive impact on flood victims, who were the rightful recipients of aid from the flood-control projects that did not push through.
“Not all buwaya are bad. Some are actually trying to help,” the brand said in a statement, as it turned everyday representations of corruption into statements that demanded action against these systemic injustices.
Pre-orders for the limited-edition collection are currently closed, but stay tuned to Identity Apparel’s Facebook page for updates and more information.