Add shoe designer to the list of credentials of actors Derek Ramsay and John Estrada.
Derek and John are now certified shoe designers for the first time after they were commissioned by a local shoe manufacturer to come up with limited edition designs for their shoes named after them.
“I love cars, watches and I love shoes. Growing up these were my favorite things. I have always been very particular about the shoes I buy. They have to be stylish, comfortable and made from quality material. Shoes are like a work of art for me. I admire the craftsmanship involved in making/designing a pair of shoes. It has always been a dream of mine to design a pair of shoes and now I am proud to say that dream has come true. I'm so happy to have the perfect partner to execute the designs I have come up with. Thank you @godfather_shoes for this partnership. #proudlyfilipino," says Derek.
John says: “I still have my feet on the ground, I just wear better shoes … great shoes bring you great places ….I'm humbled and honored to be a part of @godfather_shoes family … Thank you for the opportunity … #proudlypinoymade."
John and Derek are known supporters of local brands. Derek is known for commissioning artworks from local artists for his new home while John promotes small businesses on his social media page.
The two actors were hands-on in coming up with designs for their shoe line because they both wanted their identity and persona to reflect in the products.
John's designs are leaned towards a combination of rugged and sophisticated while Derek wanted something simple, clean and timeless. The pairs of shoes are all in limited edition - only five designs per line and 100 pieces per design will be produced.
The four-year-old leather shoe business was one of the many businesses nationwide impacted by the pandemic.
Due to lockdown, their operations stopped for two months, according to Aaron Angeles, founder and CEO of the shoe company Godfather shoes.
But the shoe firm did not give up easily. In June, they bounced back with the help of actor-singer Dodj Mallari who introduced the footwear to Derek and John.
"Malaki ang tiwala nila Derek at John sa ating small entrepreneurs sa Pilipinas kaya all-out ang support nila," said Dodj.