A SILK scrunchie priced at nearly P2,000 from the lifestyle brand Bahay Kubo has gone viral, sparking debate on social media about the cost of “supporting local.”
The brand was founded by half-Filipina model and influencer Christina Nadin, who said she was inspired by her mother’s 1990s outfits and hair accessories.
Bahay Kubo’s products include scrunchies made of 100% mulberry silk priced between P1,800 and P2,000, and cotton headbands sold at P1,100 each.
On its website, the brand claims that its scrunchies reduce hair frizz and breakage while offering a more luxurious feel. It also states that $1 from every purchase is donated to Lokal Lab, a nonprofit group based in Siargao that supports sustainable livelihood initiatives.
Despite the charitable angle, many netizens questioned the high prices.
“Support local,” one user wrote, “but not at luxury prices. The materials aren’t even locally sourced.”
Others pointed out that similar hair accessories could be produced at a fraction of the cost using local fabric and labor.
One netizen commented, “These brands use Filipino names and concepts but cater to the upper class. There’s nothing local about it except the branding.”
Still, some defended the brand, saying its pricing strategy is no different from other international labels.
“At least this one is Filipino-owned. Nobody’s forcing anyone to buy,” a user said.
The Bahay Collection, which includes four scrunchies and four headbands, is priced at P11,400.