The Foreign Buyers Association of Philippines (Fobap) has received $80 million worth garments orders from American fashion brands. These are the first purchase orders that the association has received since March. The association is a group of buyer representatives that monitor for their foreign principals how orders are being done in economic zones in the Philippines, from sampling and sewing to shipment and even after-sales.

Fobap members had been appealing to their principals abroad to give them at least some of the orders, especially since many workers are having a difficult time to cope with the health crisis. Around $300 million worth of planned orders were canceled at the start of the year due to the pandemic.

However, the situation improved last week as popular brands Ann Taylor, Vineyard Vines and Ralph Lauren confirmed orders worth $28 million. Another $50 million was made by Lucky Brand Jeans, Talbots, Kohl’s and Champion.