We Don't Talk Enough About Filipinos in Skating: How Illa Manila is Changing the Game
Skateboarding has long been a global phenomenon, yet Filipino skaters have often been underrepresented in the mainstream narrative. Illa Manila, a Filipino streetwear brand, is on a mission to change that. With deep roots in Filipino culture and a commitment to uplifting Filipino talent, Illa Manila is not just a brand—it's a movement. In this article, we explore the inspiring stories of Filipino skaters and how Illa Manila is helping to shine a spotlight on their achievements.
Margielyn Didal: From Street Food Vendor to Olympic Skater
Margielyn Didal’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Hailing from Cebu City, Margie began selling street food to support her family, but her passion for skateboarding soon took center stage. Margie broke barriers when she became one of the first professional female Filipino skaters to compete on the world stage. Her participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics not only put Filipino skateboarding on the map but also inspired a new generation of skaters in the Philippines.
Margie’s Olympic run sparked a conversation within the Philippine government about better support for athletes in non-traditional sports like skateboarding. Her influence has encouraged more young Filipinos to take up the sport, proving that skateboarding is more than just a pastime—it’s a powerful platform for cultural representation.
Alt text: Margielyn Didal, Filipino Olympic skateboarder at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Kevin Almazan: Skating Beyond Limits
Born without legs in Metro Manila, Kevin Almazan turned to skateboarding as a practical means of transportation. What began as a necessity soon blossomed into a full-fledged passion. With a “no excuses” attitude, Kevin has become an inspiration to many, showing that physical limitations are no barrier to achieving greatness. Today, Kevin skates full-time, backed by several global sponsors who recognize his talent and determination.
Kevin’s story is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Filipino spirit. His journey from the streets of Manila to the global stage exemplifies the power of skateboarding as a tool for empowerment and self-expression.
Alt text: Kevin Almazan, a Filipino skateboarder born without legs, performing a trick on his skateboard.
Willy Santos: A Filipino-American Pioneer in Skateboarding
Willy Santos is a name that resonates with skateboarding enthusiasts around the world. As a Filipino-American skateboarding pioneer, Willy’s early standout performances earned him a coveted spot on Tony Hawk’s “Birdhouse Project” team. His influence in the skateboarding community is immense, and he continues to shape the industry through his collaborations.
One of Willy’s most notable contributions is his work with Illa Manila’s founder, Raibyn Cabiling. Together, they’ve crafted a signature line of Vans shoes and Filipino-themed Birdhouse skateboards that celebrate Filipino heritage. These designs not only honor Filipino culture but also bridge the gap between traditional and modern streetwear.
Alt text: Willy Santos, Filipino-American skateboarder
Mak Feliciano: A Rising Star on Illa Manila’s Skate Team
Mak Feliciano is a rising star in the Filipino skateboarding scene. His silver medal at the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, alongside Margielyn Didal, solidified his status as a top athlete. As a member of Illa Manila’s skate team, Mak represents the brand’s commitment to promoting Filipino skate talent on a global scale.
Illa Manila’s skate team is more than just a group of skaters—it’s a platform for showcasing Filipino talent and fostering a sense of community. By supporting skaters like Mak, Illa Manila is helping to elevate Filipino skateboarding culture and ensure that these athletes receive the recognition they deserve.
Alt text: Mak Feliciano, Filipino skateboarder that won a silver medal in the 2019 SEA Games.
Supporting Filipino Skateboarding Culture Through Fashion
Illa Manila is not just a clothing brand; it’s a beacon of Filipino pride and cultural representation. By incorporating elements of Filipino culture into their streetwear collections, such as the Barongorak—a modern twist on the traditional Barong Tagalog—Raibyn Cabiling and his team are creating a unique space in the streetwear industry.
Alt text: Illa Manila’s Barongorak streetwear, a modern twist on the traditional Barong Tagalog, displayed in a collection.
Shop Illa Manila at bit.ly/shopillamanila30
The “Barongorak” is restocking in four new colorwawys. Pre-order is open only from August 23-26! Shop the Barongorak here.