Known for its durability, ‘Ang Tibay’ shoes definitely lived up to its famous tagline: *The Wear That Lasts.*From the 1900’s up to the 1950’s, ‘Ang Tibay’ was almost an indomitable brand of leather footwear, pleasing both locals and foreigners alike. Just like any great Enterprise, ‘Ang Tibay’ also had a humble origin. It’s founder, Toribio Teodoro, was born to poor parents and didn’t even complete elementary education. At a young age, he started working in a cigar factory before he switched to slipper making at the age of 20. It was during this time when the idea of starting a business came to his mind. ^[1]

In 1910, he opened his first shop on Rizal Avenue with the help of his friend and business partner, Juan Katindig. The two eventually parted ways, leaving Teodoro with no choice but to start “Ang Tibay Footwear Factory” on his own. In the span of 10 years, his company gradually emerged as one of the biggest enterprises in the country, earning him the title “Manila’s Slipper King.”

During the late 1920’s, Teodoro ventured into shoemaking.

This decision prompted him to hire more employees and build a larger factory in Grace Park in Caloocan. The Art Deco style factory was one of the most modern factories in the country as well as in Asia. ^[1]

The brand continued to soar until the 1950’s and 1960’s when the popularity of ‘Ang Tibay’ shoes slowly faded.