By Robbie Pangilinan
In this barbershop, tattoo artists cut your hair – the old-fashioned way.

Tattoo master Ricky Sta. Ana, in partnership with Tribal, made this concept happen when they opened Tribal Cuts Barbershop in 2014. Tribal Cuts Barbershop was the first (and still the only) barbershop in the Philippines whose barbers are also tattoo artists. Called “inkbarbers,” these artists take pride in doing “old school” haircuts – complete with the tried-and-tested pomade.

“Vintage cut, that’s what we call it,” says proudly. “Mga barbero ko galing sa mga pamilya ng barbero na gumagamit ng malalaking gunting, mga 6 to 8 inches, kahit walang razor (My barbers comes from families of barbers who use big scissors measuring 6 to 8 inches, without using razors),” he adds.

Sta. Ana is the founder and president of the Philippine Tattoo Artists Guild (PhilTAG) that has been supporting its members since 1995 by providing training, development, and education programs so that the tattoo artists can earn for their families. The organization also gives its members the opportunity to work abroad.

Sta. Ana, who is celebrating 35 years in the tattoo industry, also has the “Tattoo the World” advocacy that aims to give people jobs and medical assistance through fundraising events that feature tattoo artists. Sta. Ana owns Skinworkz Tattoo Shops at SM North Edsa, Robinsons Manila and Cartimar Pasay.

Tribal Cuts, a barbershop, tattoo shop, and tribal clothing shop in one, is at Unit 02150, Robinsons Place Manila. It will soon open at Festival Mall Alabang to serve more clients.

“Nagpapasalamat ako sa Maykapal sa lakas at pagmamahal Niya sa akin at sa pamilya ko, sa lahat ng kasamahan ko sa tattoo community (I thank the Creator for the strength and love He gives to me and my family, and to all my friends in the tattoo community), ends Sta. Ana.