Iza, Nikki chosen as Uniqlo endorsers

(L-R) Chris Tiu, Iza Calzado, Nikki Gil and Chito Miranda are the Filipino endorsers of Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo. Photo from Uniqlo's Facebook page

MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATED) Fast Retailing Philippines Inc. has chosen Filipino celebrities to endorse the Japanese fashion brand Uniqlo, which is opening its first store in the Philippines next month.

On Wednesday night, Uniqlo revealed its "Philippine cast" composed of Kapamilya actresses Iza Calzado and Nikki Gil, basketball player and TV host Chris Tiu, and Parokya ni Edgar vocalist Chito Miranda at a party at the InterContinental Hotel in Makati City.

The celebrities will be seen in advertisements ahead of the June 15 opening of the Uniqlo store at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

"I never thought they would get endorsers for Manila, that's why it was such a shock for me," Calzado said. 

"I realized it was the real thing when the contract came. Of course, I'm very honored and privileged to endorse such a trusted brand, and to be among the first to represent it here in the Philippines, it's a really great honor," Gil added.

Tiu, meanwhile, said on Twitter: "Still feeling high from last night's Uniqlo launch party. Another pictorial today."

Uniqlo said it believes the four Filipino celebrities exemplify the brand's "made for all" philosophy.

Fast Retailing Philippines Inc. is a joint venture between SM Retail Inc. and Japan's Fast Retailing Co., the world’s fourth largest apparel retail firm.

Uniqlo has been coming up with several promotional activities to increase awareness of the brand, including setting up an activity wall at the SM Mall of Asia.