What is "banig"

A Baníg is a handwoven mat usually used in East Asia and Philippines for sleeping and sitting. This type of mat is traditionally made in the Philippines.

Technically, it is not a textile. Depending on the region of the Philippines, the mat is made of buri, ( palm), pandanus or sea grass leaves. The leaves are dried, usually dyed, then cut into strips and woven into mats, which may be plain or intricate.

The Samal of Sulu usually make their mats out of buri leaves. Mats from Basey, Samar use tikog leaves which are dyed in strong colours to make beautiful, unique designs.