Buri basket (bay-ong)

The bay-ong is a hand-woven traditional bag of the Hanunuo Mangyans, made of buri (palm leaf). The pakudos design, once used to ward off evil spirits, is now a symbol of the Hanunuo Mangyans, and is commonly seen on their bags, clothing and accessories. Minus the traditional string strap, the bay-ong's unique design and durability make it an ideal container for tissues, flower pots or just about anything.

Sizes:

• S - base 4.0 x 4.0, height 5.5 inches
• M - base 4.5 x 4.5, height 7 inches
• L - base 5.5 x 5.5, height 7.2 inches
• XL - base 6.5 x 6.5, height 7.5 inches

Buri (palm leaf) weaving is a traditional art of the Hanunuo Mangyans. Soft, narrow strips of leaf are intricately woven into baskets, purses, pen holders and other small containers. Fine nito (vine) strips are laid over the woven buri to add a touch of color.