Fast-fashion eyed as new tourist lure

CEBU, Philippines – RTW (read-to-wear) maker A.T.E. Clothier is partnering with travel operators in Cebu to highlight the emerging fast fashion industry in Cebu.

A.T.E. Clothier founder Ma Aleta "Tatah" C. Dela Calzada announced this move after noting an increasing number of group travelers who make her shops as one of the stop over  destinations in their visit to Cebu.

This however, was started by Cebuanos who are residing in other countries or those that from Manila who may have recommended the shop, as something that is uniquely Cebu made.

"It is certainly a unique experience which is not yet available in the Philippines" Dela Calzada said.

This package includes shopping of Cebu-made fast fashion clothes which include custom-made clothes or RTWs with alterations.

She said Cebu has been leading in the design edge, and this is not only true to furniture, fashion accessories, couture, music, among others, but practically across industries, including atelier in fast fashion.

Already, A.T.E by Tatah, shops located in Mabolo and Axis Entertainment Center in Escario have been part of several group tour itineraries, handled by friends and families, but she said wants to make a formal partnership with travel specialists in Cebu.

Shopping is one of the segments that Cebu had been urged to improve on.

Earlier, Department of Tourism (DOT) consultant Robert Lim Joseph urged Cebu to expand its options in shopping especially for high-end, signature and sophisticated Cebu-made products specifically with the influx of shopping fanatic market–the Chinese.

Ironically, while most products from apparel, bags, shoe and almost everything is made in China, Joseph said Chinese travelers splurge more in shopping during their travels outside of their home country. — (FREEMAN)