Makati Mayor Abby Binay on Thursday led the ceremonial distribution of the newest version of the rubber shoes provided for free by the city government to the city’s public schoolchildren which became an internet sensation when it was launched in 2018.
The mayor and other city officials visited Rizal Elementary School, Makati Elementary School, Benigno Ninoy Aquino High School, and Makati High School to start the distribution of 78,023 pairs of “AB 5.0” rubber shoes to the students.
According to the mayor, the fifth version of the rubber shoes differs in color and style compared to the earlier four versions.
“We designed the rubber shoes to be very stylish and trendy, so our students can wear them proudly. This latest and improved version of the free rubber shoes is given to students in all public schools in Makati, from elementary to senior high school,” Mayor Abby said.
She noted that a number of local government units have tried to replicate the school gear being provided to Proud Makatizen students. However, none have been able to match the superior quality and design of the materials, she said.
Apart from the rubber shoes, Makati students are also provided reusable water tumblers similar to popular water bottles in the market.
“This is the second version of the reusable water bottles that we give students to ensure that they are hydrated during class and PE time, and to help them avoid buying plastic water bottles. This is in line with our goal to reduce plastic waste in the city,” Mayor Abby added.
Meanwhile 29,657 junior high school students are set to receive the newest design of their free jackets aimed to protect them during the rainy season. The jacket, which has a lighter color than the previous design, matches the design of the rubber shoes.
Some 8,910 senior high school students, on the other hand, will receive their new bags. The knapsack-styled bags are made of high-quality, durable and water-repellent materials.
The mayor said these supplies are under the City’s Project FREE (Free Relevant Excellent Education), which provides Makati public school students, from preschool to senior high, with free school supplies and ready-to-wear school uniforms.
During her administration, Mayor Abby expanded the city’s Project FREE to include leather and rubber shoes, tumblers, socks, rain gear, dengue and hygiene kits, jackets, and Japan-inspired school bags and uniforms.
