A local artist hand-painted five pairs of Vans shoes with colors, logos, and landmarks of Manila, including the face of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, as the footwear brand joined the celebration of his 45th birth anniversary.
Nikko Pelaez created the customized shoes series dubbed as “Batang Maynila,” the catchphrase used by the mayor during his campaigns and speeches.
In a Facebook post, Pelaez said he was commissioned by Vans Philippines to customize five pairs of slip-on shoes.
“Those pairs will not be available in any/all Vans stores,” Pelaez said. “Pero malay niyo isa diyan matripan nila i-mass produce hahaha,” the artist said.
Officials of Vans Philippines personally handed the custom-painted sneakers that featured the image of the Manila mayor who celebrated his 45th birth anniversary celebration on Oct. 24 during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Sta. Cruz, Manila.
Along with the customized pair, the footwear brand also gave a birth anniversary cake that resembled a skate park that Moreno plans to construct in Paco, Manila. (Erma Edera)