Intramuros is well-known for its cultural heritage and historical importance, highlighted by the majestic structure of Fort Santiago. Although originally built to serve as protection from externally perceived threats, the confines of the city's beautiful walls tell stories of the conquerors and the oppressed. There's an eerie juxtaposition of opposites contained within the city, whispering lessons of wisdom to be learned from the past that are still relevant to this very day.
Jose Rizal's footprints are embedded in bronze: glaring reminders of his untimely demise at the hands of the country he loved so dearly, allowing tourists and locals alike to take a trip back through time and imagine themselves in his shoes. The Rizal shrine and museum commemorate his final days in Intramuros. He spent a majority of his life's work hoping to spark the fire of nationalism and independence within each and every one of us through his words and actions. Although the "Walled City" imprisoned our national hero, his only dying wish was to see Filipinos walk earnestly towards personal and collective freedom. The place that once held him captive is now riddled with testaments to his intellect and works--inspiring others with his passion, proving that ideas are indeed mightier and more influential than any man-made weapon or dungeon.
The area in which Intramuros stands has seen many days of battle and bloodshed. It is rich not only in history, but in symbolism as well. The fact that it has withstood the test of time has proven that regardless of how many times we are struck down, bombarded and destroyed--the willingness to rebuild, preserve and improve on what remains is strong in the heart of every Filipino.
Our minds have the potential to cage us in or set us free. Intramuros reminds us that walls, whether metaphorical or physical, should be used for protection and unity as opposed to using them as tools for punishment and division. In the end, it is compassion, truth and freedom that truly liberates us all.
Taking our cues from camouflage, we patterned the fabric after the sturdy walls of Intramuros accented with a dark brown Suede brim and button. This design is a tribute to the persevering minds hidden underneath layers of aged rock and ruin. The inside of the cap is lined with Jose Rizal's parting literary piece 'Mi Ultimo Adios' written in gold, representing the fusion of mind and heart.
The MNL 'Intramuros' stands proudly on its own, available now for P1550 at our webstore + WIP HQ and next week at our partner stores & stockists. Keep your head strong and your mind stronger.
“We want the happiness of the Philippines, but we want to obtain it through noble and just means. If I have to commit villainy to make her happy, I would refuse to do so, because I am sure that what is built on sand sooner or later would tumble down.” - Jose Rizal