I was intrigued when I first heard about Barong Batik. The name readily suggests a fusion of Filipino and Indonesian cultures. But, what exactly is Barong Batik?

I got to meet the owners and founders of Barong Batik and first-hand learned the story of how the brand came about. Tito Freddy Mercado and Tita Thel Victorio are the couple behind this popular wear. Together they made this a stand-out fashion in the midst of Batik-wearing Indonesia. Filipinos and Indonesians here in Indonesia quickly took an interest when they first saw Tito Freddy wear the very first piece of Barong Batik created.

Origins of Barong Batik

The spark of genius was ignited when Tito Freddy saw how a Batik process is being done. His background in the textile industry prompted him to imagine the possibility of the Batik print on the Philippines’ jusi textile. He visualized Batik stamping and hand-drawn Batik designs on the jusi textile instead of embroidery which we are more used to seeing in the Philippines.

Tito Freddy and Tita Thel diligently looked for Batik artists who can put Tito Freddy’s ideas into reality. It took several months of experimenting with the fabric and the prints until the first one was created. It was worn by Tito Freddy himself on one memorable day in 2007 during an Independence Day dinner reception hosted by the Philippine Embassy.

Tito Freddy easily became a standout in his Barong Batik. To quote directly from Tita Thel,

“In that event, he was the focus of 12 gentlemen combining both Indonesians and Filipinos. To a Pinoy, pare ano yang suot mo? Barong pero Batik. Ang mga Indonesians naman, Pak can I touch your shirt? It looks like it’s Batik but it’s a different cloth.“

This event marked the start of the Barong Batik brand. It has become a big part of cultural events where you can see men and women donning their own Barong Batik in different styles and prints.

Fusion of Filipino and Indonesian Cultures

The brand is very distinct. The prints do look Indonesian but the style and the feel are very Filipino. It has become a perfect fusion of Filipino and Indonesian cultures.

It has not only graced cultural events but has also become a permanent fixture even at simple celebrations and gatherings among Filipinos here in Indonesia.

The founders call it a piece of art.

We call it Barong Batik and I call this a piece of art. And a true fusion of Asian fashion because this Barong Batik is to honor our culture and respect our heritage. And this, I think, is one of the best examples of soft diplomacy between Indonesia and the Philippines. – Tita Thel

The Legacy

Tito Freddy knew he wanted to make something that will make an impact. He wished to leave a legacy.

Ang naging dream ko noon is to create or do something which I can be proud of, to be recognized. Di ko alam na ito palang Barong Batik yun. Yun ang naging istorya ng Barong Batik. – Tito Freddy

Barong Batik continues to be felt and seen. Dignitaries, diplomats, and executives wear Barong Batik. Tito Freddy cannot help but smile whenever he sees their creations, especially during those times he doesn’t expect it.

My friend and I wore our husbands’ Barong Batik last Indonesia Fashion Week. Both Tito Freddy and Tita Thel were glad to see their creations worn in an unconventional way.

If you are in Jakarta, you can check out Barong Batik’s showroom by messaging their Facebook page: Barong Batik.

And as an expat in Indonesia, you should have one!

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