Filipinos are generally simple; bound by traditions and held back by superstitions (IMO) — perhaps attributed to its religious nature. Anyway, noting our National Costumes: the Baro’t Saya and the Barong, these pieces somewhat says it all. Though it offers formality, one can’t deny that they still lack the sophistication of a cocktail dress and the sleekness of a suit, respectively. But that’s how our country’s fashion was founded — in simplicity and modesty.

That’s probably why a lot of Philippine fashion designers excel in gowns, I’m guessing it’s an extreme reaction to our roots. We’ve managed to develop the idea that more is better; elaborate is more fashion forward. But we know that, nowadays, these things are not always true and applicable.

Though high fashion is still a bit out of reach for most of the Philippine population — heck, I can even say that the ones who think they know how to define and execute it are horribly off target — it’s probably best if we simply celebrate what’s real (and not to mention affordable and practical). Let’s embrace our Tsinelas Culture.

Taken using a Nokia 6700 Classic

It is after all what our ancestors used as they trekked the unpaved roads; traveling from one barrio to the next. They rely on the tsinelas to give their rough, calloused feet — from walking barefoot around the farm or plowing the rice fields — a rest.

Roam freely, casually and without pretenses. Something that best reflects the very roots of the country’s culture. Simple and rustic. Funny that the one featured in the photo’s a Brazilian flip-flop brand. Heh. I guess we can say that we share the same love for them flip-flops, eh?

Anyway, this explains why I appreciate targeted contests like the one hosted by Cebu Pacific, The Wandering Juan. I believe I told you folks about it, yes? Not only does it promote local tourism, but it chooses to encourage Filipinos to identify themselves with the tsinelas. So, have any of you joined?

This reminds me that I have yet to book my trip to Puerto Princesa (yes, I’ve finally decided on a destination). I have to get a move on since the contest will end October 2009. Dear me. Where will I find the time and money to take this trip? Oh, sod it. I’m still determined that the Style Manila Flip-Flop will travel!

Translation: Tsinelas - Flip-flop

Photo © 2009 Sasha Manuel