The stars align for Santa Cruz De Mayo 2024

The Philippine Heritage Society, under the auspicious leadership of Sherwin Sozon, Nathan De Leon and Tess Castro, and in cooperation with the Intramuros Administration, Filipino Heritage Festival, and Admiral Hotel, proudly presented Santa Cruz De Mayo 2024, a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture and heritage.

This highly anticipated event was held at the historic Fort Santiago, Intramuros.

Hermana Mayores Mache Ackerman, Isabel Tique, Bing Carrion

Celebrities Zsa Zsa Padilla with daughter Ana Karylle Padilla Tatlonghari Yuzon and beauty queen Alethea Ambrosio graced the occasion with their presence, adding glamour to the festivities.

Fr. Blaise Garcia, author Johnny Litton, Ambassador Cookie Feria and Eugene Gonzales

It was a wonderful way to honor the legacy of Queen Helena’s search for the Holy Cross through this colorful, religious-historical procession, reflecting the deep cultural roots and cherished traditions of the Filipino people.

Sapatero Manila cofounder and sales and marketing head Jim Pacifico, Shoegazing blog founder, London Super Trunk Show head organizer, and World Championships of Shoemaking 2024 judge Jesper Ingevaldsson, and Sapatero Manila cofounder, head shoemaker, and CEO Jerard Jader during the awarding ceremony

A historical triumph in global shoemaking

Sapatero Manila, the pride of the country’s shoemaking industry, recently secured ninth place at the prestigious World Championships of Shoemaking 2024 in London, UK.

This remarkable feat, also the first foray of a Philippine shoemaker company in the that competition, coincides with the business’ 10th anniversary, which marks a decade of commitment to reviving local shoemaking.

The Shoe Snob blog founder, J.FitzPatrick footwear brand founder and owner, London Super Trunk Show head organizer, and World Championships of Shoemaking 2024 judge Justin FitzPatrick with famous menswear influencer and businessman, London Super Trunk Show head organizer and sponsor, and World Championships of Shoemaking 2024 judge Kirby Allison

The company’s debut entry, a “case-back, watch-inspired,” hand-welted apron loafer with intricate solihiya weave detailing, captivated both judges and attendees at the London Super Trunk Show.

The talented Sapatero Manila cofounder, head shoemaker, and CEO Jerard Jader, who trained at the renowned Stefano Bemer in Florence, Italy, leads the enterprise, together with cofounder and sales and marketing head Jim Pacifico in its mission to bring Marikina craftsmanship to the global stage.

Visit their boutiques in Salcedo Village, Makati City and Escriva Drive, Ortigas, Pasig City, to experience their exquisite range of RTW, made-to-order and bespoke shoes, cherished by dignitaries and noted personalities alike.

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You may email me at jjlitton@indanet.com. Follow me on Facebook and YouTube: Johnny Litton by Jayelles PH and on Instagram: @jayellesph.