UP jackets draw mixed reactions over price tag

Jackets from the volunteer group Nowhere To Go But UP (NTGBUP) are making the rounds online, with some social media users weighing in on what they perceive to be a hefty price tag.

The jackets, made by local fashion brand Pinas Sadya, are part of the organization's "Wear Your Fight" collection, a fundraising project that supports the university's athletes, the Fighting Maroons. Users, however, are debating whether the P7,500 to P9,500 price range for the jackets is too steep.

"Pati prices nowhere to go but UP," a Facebook user commented.

Another joked that the merch was something "only members of the UP Golf Club" can afford.

On the other hand, some supporters defended the jackets, suggesting their price was justified because they were made by local weavers.

"This is not just mass-produced fabrics, these are woven fabric na di naman nabibili in big rolls, also there are callado embroidery and the other fabric is Abel Iloco, so 10k is just the right price for a piece," one user said. 

"The creation of these garments involves numerous processes carried out by human beings. From processing and weaving the fibers to designing, cutting, sewing, finishing, and quality assurance, these tasks are all performed by people who deserve fair wages. That P9,000 jacket not only supports UP athletes but ensures fair compensation for the individuals behind its production," another user shared.

"Maraming merch ang UP na pang-masa. This one is for fundraising kaya mahal. Pero totoo na medyo hindi na pang-masa UP," an X user said. 

Other X and Facebook users discussed the target market for the jackets.

"Realistically, the jackets are probably intended for alumni with not-so-shallow pockets. If you want one of those, feel free to buy them," another wrote on Facebook.

'Pag taga UP ba forever dapat nasa lusak at 'di pwede maka-afford ng premium jacket? 'Di naman to uniform. Habi 'yan [...] Kung wala kang UP diploma, at kung namamahalan ka, hindi ikaw ang target market," one user said.

"As much as I wanted one, the price is just not for me. And even if the materials justify the cost, kahit sabihin niyo pa na mura na 'yan, your target market is not for UP but for the selected few, the elite. It's just not practical for most of us," another added.

Meanwhile, some raised the issue of how Pinoys are willing to splurge on international brands over local ones.

"Why are we so willing to spend tens or even hundreds of thousands on European or American brands, but refuse to do the same for Filipino products?" one said.

"'Pag international brands, okay lang ganyan pricing? Teh hinabi pa 'yan. I think justified ang pricing."