It feels great to be part of a worthy cause. I am so happy and proud to be part of the roster of eight women that Aranaz invited to represent their With Love collection. The seven amazing women who did this shoot with me are Bianca Gonzalez, Maxene Magalona, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Camille Co, Divine Lee, Audrey Zubiri, and Tessa Prieto-Valdes.

Aranaz hopes to sell 1000 pieces of this bag in order to raise at least P1,000,000 to donate to victims of Haiyan. Each bag is priced at P2,500, which will be available online at http://www.aranaz.ph and all ARANAZ boutiques. It is important to know that the brand will not be making any profit on this bag (though production costs, taxes and fees will have to be covered), and this fundraising project is actually very close to their hearts as this will help a community of weavers get back on their feet. Through this, they hope this local craft can live on.

Known as the “Banig Capital of the Philippines”, Basey, Samar is one of the towns that were badly hit by Typhoon Haiyan. Mat-weaving is the town’s primary livelihood and the recent typhoon has dampened this thriving industry. 

In true bayanihan spirit, the Bicol weavers lend a helping hand through the With Love bag. Handcrafted in Bicol, the bag will benefit the town of Basey, Samar who are currently unable to produce their own weaves. A portion of the sales from every bag sold will be used to re-build the lives and homes of its residents–the residents who have laboured to bring us the beautiful woven mats we all know and love. (Press release) 

Get your own With Love bag today!