A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Akatha started as a passion project and was born out of a deep-rooted love for design and craftsmanship. The brand’s founder launched Akatha on March 5, 2021–coinciding with his birthday and making one special day a celebration for two milestones. This signifies more love and support for the brand and of course, serves easier remembrance of the important date.
The founder had this idea of selling designed products he co-created with MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) to provide an avenue for his partners and himself to showcase their talent. It is also to share their craft while promoting the Filipino heritage and sustainable products and practices. They recognized the potential of combining these elements to create products that not only celebrate Filipino culture but also provide sustainable income.
Rooted in the Philippines, this unique brand has seamlessly blended craftsmanship, the richness of Filipino culture, and the imperative need for environmental conservation.
Craftsmanship, Local Materials, and Baybayin
Akatha PH collaborates closely with skilled craftsmen across the Philippines, creating a partnership that upholds centuries-old traditions. One unique feature of Akatha’s products is the use of Baybayin, an ancient script indigenous to the Philippines. The inclusion of Baybayin serves as a powerful connection to the country’s pre-colonial past and a reminder of the richness of Filipino heritage.
The founder is captivated by the idea of the Philippines embracing Baybayin, similar to how other countries like Thailand, Japan, and Korea proudly display their native writing systems. Moreover, he himself has a strong desire to educate others about Baybayin and its significance. He hopes for Babayin to reach a wider audience and this is him taking the step towards that goal.
Akatha PH takes pride in its exquisite tumbler sleeve made of abaca (also known as Manila hemp), a type of banana plant native to the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia known for its durable and flexible fibers.
Constituting its debut product line is the Bathala collection which features three variants–Kadakilaan, Kataastaasan, and Kaluwalhatian–all inspired by the essence of Bathala, an entity of historical and cultural significance in the Philippines, which means supreme deity or god.
With this product, Akatha PH aims to elevate your drinking experience while infusing it with local artistry.
Its package includes an insulated tumbler, a jute sleeve adorned with the mata-mata pattern (the protector’s eye), a leather strap, a ‘thank you’ card made of plantable seed paper, and a reusable denim tote bag for secondary packaging.
As an added personal touch, they offer the option to have the customer’s name written in Baybayin script at the back. You’ll also find a script guide to help you learn to write and read Baybayin. Moreover, it features a wax stamp seal for authenticity, which can be hung alongside the tumbler.
Conservation and Empowering Local Communities
Akatha PH‘s mission extends beyond crafting beautiful products. The brand has made it a priority to empower local communities. By providing sustainable employment opportunities and fair wages to craftsmen, Akatha PH directly contributes to poverty alleviation and economic stability in rural areas.
Moreover, their commitment to environmental conservation is evident in their use of locally sourced, biodegradable materials like abaca. This not only reduces the carbon footprint but also encourages responsible production and consumption.
Where to Find Akatha PH
Based in Quezon City, Philippines, Akatha’s online space is not just a retail space but also a hub for cultural exchange, where visitors can learn about the rich history and traditions behind each product.
For inquiries, orders, or to explore their range of sustainable, culturally-inspired products with Baybayin inscriptions, you can contact Akatha through the following channels:
- Email: akathaph@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AkathaPh
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/akathaph/
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@akathaph?_t=8h0yYA5q7az&_r=1
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@akathaph2742
Why Akatha Ph?
It’s a passion project of mine. I’m a product designer, and I’ve collaborated with various MSMEs to co-create unique products. I had the idea to sell my designed products, which I created with MSMEs, under the brand “Akatha.” This provides an additional avenue for them to showcase and sell our design products while also highlighting my design talent. Interestingly, I launched Akatha Ph on March 5, 2021, which happens to be my birthday.
The Akatha Community Impact
Firstly, my goal is to enhance the quality of our handicraft products through design, aiming to cultivate a greater appreciation for these crafts among people. Simultaneously, I aim to support the livelihoods of these communities. Additionally, I aspire to ignite people’s interest in Baybayin and hope to reach a wider audience, with the aim of fostering a positive change in how we incorporate Baybayin into our daily lives.
Why Baybayin?
“I am captivated by the idea of witnessing the Philippines embracing Baybayin, similar to how other countries like Thailand, Japan, and Korea proudly display their native writing systems throughout their nations. Moreover, I have a strong desire to educate others about Baybayin and its significance.”
– Akatha PH
Akatha invites you to be a part of their journey towards a more sustainable, culturally rich future, where Filipino heritage and environmental preservation go hand in hand. Join them in celebrating the Philippines’ extraordinary culture, history, and Baybayin script while supporting the artisans who breathe life into its traditions, one exquisite abaca tumbler sleeve at a time.
