By Jed Nykolle Harme

The Cavite ArmaType font (Photo courtesy by Dustin Carbonera)

This experimental and abstract lettering is inspired from the iconic armalite logo every Caviteňos would actually recognize.



Dustin Carbonera, a Cavite-based graphic artist and design history enthusiast tells Explained PH the story behind his creations. 

“Truth be told, the history of why this Cavite armalite was born isn't traceable as of the moment. The immediate reference I have in mind would be the armed gangs that infamously roamed the mean streets of Cavite during 60s to 80s. One character in mind would be Leonardo Manicio or more known for his nickname ‘Nardong Putik’.”

Photo courtesy by Dustin Carbonera

Carbonera also shared in his facebook post that the main type for this set is "C", being the stock of an armalite, shaped to be like a hook as the name of Cavite itself is said to be a Hispanicized form of "Kawit" or "kalawit", words equivalent to "hook". 

Photo courtesy by Dustin Carbonera

What's your personal inspiration behind that font?

“Actually the Cavite armalite logo is pretty prevalent here. Ever since I was young, I have been seeing that logo and I thought it was normal.”

How long did your process take in creating this font? 

“I just rode the #36DaysOfType_08 challenge on Instagram and I used the chance to challenge myself in doing this. I have always thought of doing the type but never had the chance or time. But as they say, if you don't make time, you won't ever do it.”

Photo courtesy by Dustin Carbonera

What are the challenges you encounter in creating Cavite ArmaType? 

“Well, for one, I knew that it would be more experimental and abstract, rather than usable. It just wasn't functional (at least to how I see it now), so creating the type was more of an expression rather than something that can be used easily. Thus every letter didn't make sense as parts, only as a whole.”

Of all the provinces, why did you choose Cavite?

“I am a Caviteňo. Why not represent Cavite?”


Photos courtesy by Dustin Carbonera

What is the contribution of your font to our culture and history?

“Since this is something that's already present, my role in this is just making the invisible visible. As Caviteňos, we might be too accustomed to seeing this that we are desensitized. I just made it digital and as a set so we might see a glimpse of Cavite culture through this.”

Is this for free?

“As a font, if I ever figure out the way to make it usable, then sure, since I am not the original designer of this piece of history. As for the provincial decals, if I finish them all, I'll release them for free.”