Peculiar Eyewear: A Visionary Journey from Humble Beginnings to Global Impact

In a world where eyewear oscillates between luxury status symbols and disposable fast fashion, Peculiar Eyewear has carved a unique niche. Founded on principles of affordability, innovation, and social responsibility, this Filipino brand has redefined what it means to see—and be seen. Here’s the story of how a bullied dyslexic teenager turned a ₱10,000 gamble into a global phenomenon.

The Unlikely Founder: Isaac Saliendra’s Journey

Isaac Saliendra, a CEO, didn’t fit the mold of a corporate mogul. Growing up dyslexic and facing relentless bullying, he was told he’d “never make it in life” by teachers and peers alike. After graduating from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, he launched Peculiar in 2014 with just ₱10,000 ($200) from savings. His early days involved selling watches and bags on sidewalks in Luneta Park, a hustle inherited from his father.

Rejection became a stepping stone. When an online platform dismissed him for his casual attire (T-shirt, jeans, backpack), Isaac pivoted to Lazada, which embraced his vision. By 2016, he quit his day job as a recruitment specialist to focus on eyewear, driven by personal struggle: “My eyes hurt whenever I used the computer,” he recalled, sparking his quest to create affordable blue-light-blocking glasses.

The Birth of a Brand: Bridging Gaps in the Market

Peculiar emerged from a glaring void in the eyewear industry. Isaac noticed that Southeast Asia’s market was dominated by cheap, low-quality imports or unaffordable luxury brands. His solution? Stylish, durable frames with UV400 protection and blue-light-filtering technology, priced as low as ₱88 ($1.75).

The name “Peculiar” reflects Isaac’s ethos: “I’m different in a lot of ways, so why not make a brand for people who defy the odds?” Launched initially online, the brand gained traction for its 30-day return policy and celebrity endorsements, including veteran journalist Ces Drilon, who co-designed the Ces Style x Peculiar collection.

Innovation Meets Responsibility: Technology & Sustainability

Peculiar’s glasses aren’t just fashion accessories—they’re armor for the digital age. Each pair features:

• UV400 lenses blocking 99% of ultraviolet rays.
• BlueShield and SafeShield Technology to reduce eye strain from screens.
• Anti-radiation filters tested via spectrometer and international quality standards.

But the brand’s vision extends beyond lenses. Their Climate Change Action Plan includes tree-planting programs, solar-powered facilities, and a circular approach to waste: raw materials from production are mixed with concrete to build warehouses. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, Isaac even constructed sleeping quarters for employees next to their Rizal factory, covering lodging and farm-sourced meals.

Social Impact: Eyewear with a Heart

For every purchase, Peculiar donates art kits to Filipino students, supporting education and creativity. This initiative aligns with Isaac’s belief in hiring talent from diverse backgrounds, prioritizing passion over degrees. The brand’s inclusive ethos has earned accolades like Lazada’s Best Fashion Accessory 2020 and Southeast Asia’s Most Trusted Eyewear Brand.

Peculiar's commitment to social responsibility extends beyond donations. They actively engage in community outreach programs, focusing on education and eye health. For example, they've partnered with local schools to conduct free eye screenings and provide eyeglasses to underprivileged students. They also conduct educational campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of eye care and the dangers of prolonged screen time. Furthermore, Peculiar supports local artisans and communities by sourcing some of their materials locally, contributing to sustainable economic growth.

Global Recognition & Future Horizons

From its humble e-commerce roots, Peculiar has sold 6 million glasses worldwide since 2014. Its frames—priced from ₱499 to ₱4,580 (10–90)—are now available on Shopee, Lazada, and in SM Malls across the Philippines. Internationally, it was hailed as “Promising Global Business of the Year 2020” in Dubai.

Isaac’s ambitions remain grounded. He dreams of retiring his parents to a farm purchased with his earnings and expanding Peculiar’s global footprint. With plans to innovate further in sustainable materials and smart eyewear, the brand is poised to redefine visual culture—one peculiar pair at a time.

Why Peculiar Resonates

• Affordable Protection: Combats digital eye strain without breaking the bank.
• Style & Substance: Retro-modern designs endorsed by influencers and gamers.
• Ethical Edge: A commitment to people and planet, not just profit.

As Isaac puts it: “We’re not just selling glasses—we’re building a community that sees the world differently.” And in an era where vision is both literal and metaphorical, Peculiar Eyewear offers clarity on all fronts.