BAGUIO CITY — Social media personality Bretman Rock has sparked debate after photos circulated online showing him wearing a wanés (wa-nes), also known as a traditional bahag, worn by Indigenous Peoples (IPs), particularly the Igorots, or “people of the mountains.”

The images prompted mixed reactions from Igorots and non-IPs alike, with some criticizing Bretman’s decision to wear what they described as “warrior” attire while identifying as LGBTQ+. Others, however, came to his defense, arguing that the backlash was rooted more in prejudice than in cultural concern.

A significant portion of the Igorot community said Bretman’s use of the attire was technically and culturally respectful. Supporters noted that, unlike many who wear the wanés loosely or incorrectly, Bretman appeared to have worn it properly.

“He wore the proper attire and, more importantly, he wore it properly and proudly,” one local commenter said. “It’s better than seeing people wear briefs underneath or letting the fabric drag on the ground. He didn’t disrespect the craft; he honored it.”

The wanés is a traditional, handwoven loincloth worn by Igorot men in the Cordillera region and is widely regarded as a symbol of cultural pride and heritage. While it is often referred to as a “G-string,” many Cordillera IPs prefer the terms wanés or bahag, saying that labeling it as a G-string reduces the garment to something sexualized and strips it of its cultural meaning.

Much of the criticism centered on Bretman’s LGBTQ+ identity, with some detractors citing Bible verses to condemn the photoshoot. Cultural advocates, however, quickly pushed back, emphasizing that culture is not defined by gender.

Defenders also pointed out that Christianity was introduced to the Cordillera relatively recently, arguing that using religious doctrine to police indigenous clothing amounts to cultural erasure.

Community members further called out what they described as “fragile masculinity” among critics, noting that LGBTQ+ individuals have long existed within Igorot communities. “Do they think Igorots can’t be queer? In our communities, cross-dressers are common and accepted,” one local advocate said.

Others highlighted what they viewed as hypocrisy in the backlash. While Bretman has been criticized for a professional and respectful photoshoot, critics noted the widespread commercialization of Igorot culture in Baguio City’s tourist areas. At sites such as Burnham Park and Wright Park, vendors are often seen renting out inauthentic Igorot attire as costumes for photo-taking, a practice many say does more harm to cultural integrity than Bretman’s portrayal.