IN 1987, a year after the shining moment of the Philippines in world history with its "People Power" revolt, three friends Junx Muaña, Randy Su and Dindo Sugatan, avid outdoors men and architects, all decided once again to revisit their earlier dreams.
They pooled their money, a grand total of P4,500 and decided to set up Habagat Outdoor Equipment Inc.
They built on their earlier, if somewhat limited, success with manufacturing packs of their own design in the late 70's.
In no time, the country's growing mountaineering community was won over as the initial packs were introduced in climbs of the Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines (MFPI), climbs of other mountaineering groups and in other outdoor activities.
From then on, Habagat steadily expanded their manufacturing capabilities introduced innovative products and established dealerships throughout the Visayas and Mindanao. With the opening of SM Megamall in 1997, Habagat truly became a national brand.
Hand in hand with these, Habagat continued to be involved in outdoor activities, hosting them or supporting individuals or teams that join them. These include being part of the pioneering efforts in promoting mountain biking, caving, kayaking rock and sports climbing - at one point setting up the first sports climbing wall outside Metro Manila - and, of late, multi-discipline adventure racing - the Carrera Habagat.
Guided by the values of good design, use of quality materials with careful craftsmanship and having these tested in actual conditions by mountaineers and other outdoor enthusiasts coupled with a consistent advocacy for environmental protection and the regarding of nature not only as playground but more so as life ground.
Habagat started operating in 1987 in a garage in Kamuning St., with one high-speed sewing machine. The flagship models, Venado and Margaja, both 50 Liter Internal Frame (IF) packs were launched. These were soon introduced to the Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines, Inc. (MFPI) national federation climb in Mt. Kitanglad, Bukidnon, Mindanao. Received with overwhelming enthusiasm, orders poured in and inquiries for dealerships made.
At a mid-year climb in Camiguin Island, North Mindanao, the Bumbag (Hip pack) was introduced.
Formal dealerships were established in Cagayan de Oro City, Davao City and Manila mostly through mountaineering clubs. In December 1993, SM City Cebu Habagat shop opened.
This year alone, Habagat hosted the 5th Visayas Mountain Festival together with COAT (Cebu Outdoor Adventure Team) and USCM (USC Mountaineers) in Barangay Magtangtang, Danao Municipality, Bohol last March 6 to 9, 2008.
Habagat's new shop in Davao now opens in Matina Town Square featuring the popular items for outdoor activities. Proudly Philippine-made, Habagat stays true to its slogan of "Built by Hand, Tested by Nature." (Press release)
