Ukay ukay and disposed Philippine art

Manila Souvenir ‘Calesa’ for under 10 bucks

I found Jollibee at the Salvation Army. There he was sitting with all the dejected stuffed animals that once had a home. He was 99 cents. So, I adopted him and put him into my basket.

Days later, little Jollibee made his debut at Folklorama. He was our unofficial mascot as we sold our books. People came by and recognized him. Some reminisced about the Philippines at the sight of him. A point and a smile was enough to know that they once frequented the popular fast food chain that still shares his name.

“Where did you get Jollibee?!” one person asked.
“At Salvation Army,” we answered.
“Why would someone throw him away?!”

‘Pandango sa ilaw’ wood carving for $7

As a new homeowner with a knack for Asian art, my house is coming to look like a “zen-chinoiserie-1970s Philippines” mishmash of “stuff.” I must say that I don’t mind it. Each week I try to frequent local consignment shops in heavily populated Filipino areas. It’s there I find the intricate rattan woven furniture, ethnic wood carvings, and delicate textiles that now randomly adorn my home. It’s hard to believe someone had gotten rid of these things after all the effort it must have taken to bring them here in the first place.



Wood carving. Filipina on kalabaw (as a pair for less than $15)

In the Philippines, thrift shopping is a popular past time as well. Ukay ukay (as Filipinos call it) is quite a lucrative business there. Mounds and mounds of donated goods from developed nations find their way into the small street side markets where original (but used) brand names like Nike, Calvin Klein, Levi’s, and Guess are hunted for. The real thing is a prized departure from the other countless counterfeit items vendors also try to sell. Over there ukay ukay isn’t always about shopping for a bargain, but finding a small symbol of superficial western wealth.



Igorot (as a pair about $10)

In Canada, ukay ukay takes on a similar but different experience. Sure, everyone is on the hunt for bargains. Brand name jeans, dresses, and shoes are always popular finds for the right price. But, as I wander  amidst the multilingual chitter chatter of customers, I also bump into those on the prowl for  unique items like that gaudy hat or that tacky sweater. We have special tastes. I’m always overjoyed if a good day fills my cart with those tacky Philippine souvenirs (an igorot carving, a Manila calesa, and other Maria Clara inspired clothing to name a few). As I walk around with my basket full, I know other Filipinos take a look at my finds. They often give me a grin and an approving nod as if I’ve saved them from some unfortunate demise.

Maybe, it’s a silent way of saying we’re hunting for our own wealth of Philippine symbols.

Bentwood chair for $8.99 ( I left the tag on because no one will believe me)