Crocodiles and alligators may have prehistoric roots dating back more than 70 million years, yet the two animals are not exactly same.

As experts like to point out:“One of the easiest ways to tell the difference between crocodiles and alligators is their snout – if it’s pointed in your direction, that is. Crocodiles have longer, thinner, V-shaped snouts, while alligators have wider, rounded U-shaped snouts.”

But in the Philippines, crocodiles or "buwaya" in Tagalog, have a deeper meaning. Beyond the reptile, "buwaya" has long been associated with corruption, greed, and people who hoard power and wealth.

So, when the Senate was swamped with probes into flood control anomalies, all eyes moved to Senator Imee Marcos' desk rather than the session floor. On Tuesday, she arrived carrying a unique small purse designed like a crocodile.

The unusual brown bag caused a stir when Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri paused mid-session to call it out.

“I’d just also like to make special mention of the bag of Senator Imee Marcos,” Zubiri said. “I have never seen such kind of unique bag. It can be focused. Does that have a name?”

Marcos, smiling, simply moved the croc bag to her side. Later on Facebook, she quipped: “Lahat nakaabang kung sino na ang mga bagong pinuno ng mga komite sa Senado ngayong Martes, Setyembre 9, pero agaw eksena talaga masyado ang BB bag na dala ko.”

She even joked that she had “caught a buwaya,” a tongue-in-cheek jab at the corrupt and greedy.

If you're feeling motivated to get your own croc (without the political connotations), here are some crocodile-like purses that will add personality and punch to your wardrobe:

1. Graziella Braccialini Crocodile Bag (Approx. ₱173,600 / $3,000)

Think couture meets monstrous. This Tuscan-made, hand-embossed leather purse features metallic crocodile scales over a dark brown background. Its multiple handles and shoulder strap allow you to carry it in two ways. Each piece is created, so it serves as both art and an accessory.

1.  Temu Synthetic Leather Crocodile-Shaped Bag (₱2,306)

Temu's faux-leather crocodile handbag, the viral twin to Marcos' bag, is both tacky and affordable. It is available in black, scarlet, and dark brown and has a solid handle and an adjustable strap, proving that political statement pieces do not have to be expensive.

1. Swamped Wicker 3D Alligator Bag by Kate Spade (More or less ₱7,000)

With its silky leather trim and pop-open latch, this unusual wicker piece adds a whimsical element to your ensemble. It accommodates an iPhone Max and features Kate Spade's foil logo. With a 4-inch handle drop, it serves as both a conversation starter and a collector's item.

1.  Croc-Free Crocodile Purse (Under ₱20,000)

This handwoven figural purse, designed for the eco-conscious yet playful dresser, demonstrates that crocodile inspiration does not require real croc leather. Each piece is meticulously constructed, painted, and built to last, creating a unique heirloom-in-the-making.