MANILA, Philippines - The recent months have seen a unique wave of patriotism among the Filipinos evident in the apparel inspired by the Philippine map and national flag suddenly becoming in vogue.
Now, Pinoys have another reason to wear with pride the colors of the country’s enchanting islands with the “Pambansang Tsinelas”, the new footwear line from Tribu, the pioneer sandal brand.
The new slipper designs feature local motifs from the Philippines’ top tourist destinations such as Manila, Boracay, Davao, Cebu, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, Bohol and Bicol, among others.
“With the launch of our Pambansang Tsinelas line, we hope to promote the pride of place of every Filipino with trendy and sturdy slippers,” says Tribu president Renan Luengo.
The line is categorized into two: the Tribu trademark design Maverick and the flip-flop.
The Maverick line is distinctly Tribu and features the names of the select provinces on its straps. The flip-flop line, on the other hand, adds local flavor by featuring traditional design and tourism icons of the featured destinations.
For instance, the Bicol slipper is inspired by Mayon Volcano and abaca motifs, Cebu with the Magellan’s Cross, Iloilo with the festive Dinagyang colors, Bohol with the tarsier and Chocolate Hills, and Davao with Mt. Apo and exotic fruits.
Launched at the Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan City where the first battle between the Katipunan revolutionaries and Spanish troops took place in 1896, Luengo said that Tribu hopes to revive the Pinoy’s patriotic character by taking pride in their places of origin.
“Tribu is one product that reflects the Filipino soul, and is a durable, fashionable and world-class creation we can be proud of,” he enthused.
Luengo added that the footwear firm, in line with its CARE (Creating Awareness, Restoring the Environment) Program, has integrated environmental protection in its business by using recycled and earth-friendly technology for its packaging and some of its raw materials.
The brand was created in 1995 by Sacred Peak Marketing Inc. (SPMI) initially to provide mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts quality sandals designed for optimum adventure performance.
Since then, the brand has expanded to creating footwear and lifestyle products for hiking, cycling, watersports, and even for a leisurely walk in public parks, recreation areas and in the malls.
Tribu has 200 outlets worldwide and has given birth to two brands – Miss T, a ladies line, and Tweebu children’s footwear.
The footwear firm has also embarked on a unique product delivery service in Metro Manila, for a minimum purchase worth P400, Mondays to Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. by dialing 899-4444.