Carrying the past into the present: How Dati PH turns the 333 ‘kumot’ into fashion

There are specific things from our childhood we randomly see on a regular day that just hits home. For a lot of Filipino people, the well known “333” cotton blanket that once and can still be a part of the household is one of them. 

The “pambansang kumot” or the traditional Filipino blanket actually originated from Malaysia particularly in the East Coast of the country. Locals call it “Selimut Lejen” which translates to “legendary blanket.”

For some it brings comfort, nostalgia, and familiarity of home. The blanket can either be seen as a sofa cover, bed sheet, or just a blanket that your grandmother offers to keep you warm.

As of today, the familiar and nostalgic design is making its way outside from the comfort of Filipino households to wearable fashion pieces.

A local brand made in Manila crafting the “333” kumot with a new wave is Dati, a two-man founded business that transforms the nostalgic fabric showcasing stripes and flowers into reversible hobo bags and pouches in different colors.

For the duo, Kriz Plata and Arviel Dela Cruz, Dati stemmed from a hobby and a personal memory. Plata gained interest in sewing around 2024 where he initially started mending and making clothes. Not just for himself but also for his partner and friends. 

As the Filipino blanket inspired clothing became more recognized in the market with different brands cultivating their own twist to it, Plata decided to contribute a more generalized piece that anyone can wear. 

To reduce sizing concerns, Kriz came up with bags as an alternative for clothes.

“How about I make tote bags out of the kumot bags because it’s more universal, anyone can wear it” he said. 

Dati officially began in 2025 with 10 bags for sale at the time. Plata tested the waters if people would like it. To his surprise, it was always sold out. The growth of the brand eventually led Kriz and Arviel to split their responsibilities. 

With Kriz focused on sewing and the creative aspect while Arviel manages communication among customers as well as handling orders. It was not just a business but also a strong dedication to local fashion and Filipino nostalgia. 

The nostalgic feel of the brand is represented in their brand name. “People don’t pick that up without really realizing that’s the name of the brand, Dati. It’s something from our past that we get to bring into the present,” Kriz said. 

Dati is not just about the appeal to childhood memories. It also intends to be led with mindful consumption of materials.

The kumot fabric is newly purchased intentionally for the bags, while mass production is not a practice.  

“The bags are produced in two to four weeks. Because it really depends on how many orders we get,” Kriz said. 

Dati also ensures that the use of materials are not put to waste with leftover pieces reserved for upcoming projects. The scraps that are usable are turned into their smallest variant which is the Kumot Box Pouch.

The brand also aims to stay committed to producing intentional pieces in the long run. 

“I envision Dati not necessarily as a big brand, but one that’s thoughtful and mindful about the products that we put out in the market,” Arviel said. 

He hopes that Dati serves as a piece of the past that people can cling onto and take with them wherever they go. 

The brand hopes to show that Filipino-made and up-cycled products can be both meaningful and attainable.

Today, the Classic Kumot Hobo Bag costs ₱750 featuring a long strap and is also reversible!

Followed by its second piece for those who want it smaller, the Mini Kumot Hobo Bag which is ₱650.  

With the brand’s newest addition to their catalog offering a comfier version, the Yakap Bag that is ₱1,150.

As for Dati’s smallest item, the Kumot Box Pouch that costs ₱250, this can be perfect for small items you can bring along anywhere. 

Dati encourages Filipinos to consider local brands for clothing and accessories as small businesses like Dati have a lot more to offer. 

“I also hope that we eventually get rid of the notion that something local needs to be cheap and that we put more value in local artistry and craftsmanship,” Arviel added.

Local brands like Dati are not simply fashion staples but are important notes for intentional consumption. Continuously contributing something nostalgic to the fashion scene that can be connected with home.

Dati provides not just Filipino nostalgia and local craftsmanship but also a sense of familiarity in every Filipino household.