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13/07/2025

BATAAN: THE NEW FRONTIER FOR HIGH-END BAG MAKING

Set in the Freeport Area of Bataan, FCF Manufacturing — the Philippine arm of China-based Fashion Focus — is investing $10 million into a production facility dedicated to crafting Coach products. Backed by over 30 years of high-end bag manufacturing experience, Fashion Focus and affiliate Merit Focus are key suppliers to Coach and have now chosen the Philippines for their first expansion beyond China.

According to AFAB Chairman Deogracias Custodio, during its opening year, the factory was expected to employ 1,000 workers in its first year, with a plan to ramp up to 4,000 jobs. The facility started production by mid-2012, signaling a major boost in local employment and industry reputation.

13/07/2025

Bag trivia

LOOK: COACH BAGS SOLD WORLDWIDE ARE MADE IN THE PHILIPPINES — BY 11,000 SKILLED PINOYS IN PAMPANGA

Yes, you read that right — COACH, the iconic American luxury brand, produces many of its high-end handbags right here in the Philippines.

At a massive factory in Pampanga, around 11,000 skilled Filipino workers handcraft COACH bags that are shipped to fashion capitals across the globe. From sleek wristlets to signature totes — they’re Pinoy-made with world-class craftsmanship.

Veteran journalist Korina Sanchez-Roxas visited the site and shared her admiration for the precision, dedication, and scale of the factory operations — a rare look inside the Filipino hands behind a luxury brand known worldwide.

But here’s the catch: You can’t buy directly from the factory — it’s strictly for export. All those beautiful bags go straight to Coach boutiques abroad.

The Philippines’ quiet role in the global luxury fashion supply chain is a testament to the talent and discipline of Filipino workers, now trusted by some of the world’s most prestigious brands.

SOURCE: Industry reports, Korina Sanchez-Roxas
PHOTO COURTESY: Coach Inc., Rated Korina

24/06/2025