Bida Loca’s sole purpose

A pair of shoes can say a lot about the person wearing them. 

As a local footwear brand, Bida Loca has a way of telling the story of the people behind every stitch, cut and detail of a simple shoe.

Co-founder Antje Schwarting said Bida Loca was built not only to create stylish footwear, but also to celebrate craftsmanship and highlight the quality of Filipino-made designs. She believes local creations deserve a place alongside international brands.

The story of Bida Loca began long before the brand was created. Schwarting and her best friend first met in college, where their shared creative interests eventually brought them together. While Schwarting studied interior design, her friend moved from the College of Science to the College of Fine Arts before pursuing advertising.

Over the years, the two would often talk about starting something of their own, even without knowing exactly what that would be.

“We would always catch up and say, ‘Let’s start something of our own,’ but we didn’t know what it was about. We had no idea what we wanted to do,” Schwarting told DAILY TRIBUNE.

The pandemic became the turning point. As they spent more time connecting online, they started experimenting with small creative projects, making simple handmade pieces that eventually led them toward footwear.

Six years later, the simple idea shared by two friends has evolved into a brand that goes beyond footwear, championing quality shoes while helping preserve the value of local craftsmanship.

One of the most fulfilling parts for Schwarting has been seeing the dedication of Marikina shoemakers.

“I’ve seen the workshops. I’ve seen the workers,” she said. “We want to bring it back the value of craftsmanship so young people would want to learn it.”

She hopes more Filipinos will recognize the importance of preserving traditional skills and see craftsmanship not as a fading practice, but as a meaningful career and art form.

“It makes me proud to be part of it, the history, the tradition,” Schwarting said.

As more consumers become mindful of their purchases, Schwarting believes people are now looking beyond trends and considering the quality and story behind the products they buy.

She shared that many customers ask about the materials, construction and longevity of Bida Loca’s pieces, a proof that shoppers are becoming more intentional.

“Even though the price point is a little higher than usual, we make it a point that it’s worth it because of the quality,” she said. “We want things to last. We want it to be sustainable.”

Schwarting sees footwear as an extension of personal style, with the right pair capable of transforming even the simplest outfit.

“It has to be something that gives you one little bit of personality,” she said. “Even if your outfit is plain, add a pop of color, add a detail, something interesting. It can complete an outfit.”

Looking ahead, Schwarting sees Filipino footwear design gaining more recognition locally and internationally, especially as designers continue to combine traditional skills with modern ideas.

“Filipino craftsmanship is really good,” she said. “With the help of modern ideas and perspectives, I can see it continuing to grow.”