By Carlo Villarica
Originally published in Zee Digital Vol. 1
With a blog and brand named after the province’s dial code, Carlo Villarica is one who appreciates our local cultural identity. Here, he names five brands to check out, each representing a different facet of what Cebu has to offer.
As a means of expression, the clothes you wear can say plenty. What is important to you? What are your interests? What are you passionate about? What community do you belong to? A good brand is more than just clothes, it represents a way of living, a lifestyle.
When you buy from brand that represent a culture—not only will you feel good for purchasing, you acknowledge who you are. You aren’t a soulless zombie trudging along to the latest sale looking for deals. You aren’t out looking for trends. You care about what you put on your body. You care about what it represents. You care about the people A behind the brand. You care because you are a real person with real interests and real passions—and you want the clothes you wear to show that.
Cebu has always had local brands born out of strong communities. They represent a culture and lifestyle that is not for everybody, and thatís exactly how they like it.

AFRAME SURF COMPANY
photography GIA MAYOLA
Cebu is home to one of the premier surf brands in the Philippines, Aframe Surf Company. Not only do they produce premium apparel, accessories and bamboo glasses, but they also handcraft beautiful surfboards. If youíve every surfed in Siargao, chances are you have come
across one of their boards.
Talamban, Mandaue City
Open from 9:00 Am to 5:00 AM everyday

DEADWAYS
photography KYLA ESTOYA
Every city needs a brand that represents the streets. Fortunately, Cebu has that in the form of Deadways. But it is more than just grit and grime that sets this lifestyle brand apart. Mantras like “dream chasers,” “fear is the enemy,” “death will kill you once, fear will kill over and over,” these all embody a hustle that any urban dweller can relate to.
271-A Rahmann Ext., Gorordo Avenue,
Cebu City
Open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM everyday

STRAP
photography GIA MAYOLA
Take a drive in the wee hours of the evening, take a look at the dark corners illuminated by just a street light—you’ll see skaters everywhere. It makes sense that Cebu has its very own skate brand in Strap. Rooted in skate culture, Strap is the brand of choice for skaters all around
Cebu.
69 V. Ranudo St., Cebu City
Open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM everyday

ZEROTHREETWO
I’ll acknowledge a little bias here. I own Zerothreetwo, but to write a list that features local brands without mentioning our little brand seems like a huge oversight.
For those who have spent time on our shores, organized countless afternoons island hopping, driven up Busay for late night drinking sessions, hung out with friends at the mall because air conditioning—you have every right to call Cebu your home. Zerothreetwo is for those who truly know Cebu.
zerothreetwo.com

THE GOOD NEIGHBORHOOD
photography GIA MAYOLA
Last on the list isn’t a clothing brand. The Good Neighborhood is a store that features many other brands that deserve a spot on this list. Cebu is home to many brands trying to make a name for themselves. Visit the store, you never know what you might discover.
91-C Esmero St., Capitol Site, Cebu City
Open from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM from
Mondays to Saturdays