MANILA, Philippines – Marikina, once a farming and fishing town, has emerged as a renowned hub for exceptional shoemaking. After facing various challenges over the years, the craft is now on a path of continued success.
By 1935, the Marikina shoe industry employed 2,450 people, and this number increased to 3,000 by the 1990s. Shoemaking accounted for 70% of the local economy. Mirla Carlos reminisced about their heyday when their team of 30 workers provided handmade shoes to major department stores, including SM and Syvel’s, averaging 1,000 pairs per week. They even ventured into exporting.
Fourth-generation Marikenya Zena Bernardo was deeply moved when she witnessed discarded shoe lasts being used as firewood at their community kitchen during the pandemic. Established in 2016, Godfather employs a team of a dozen craftsmen who create high-quality handmade designs using local leather. Noel Box, the officer-in-charge of the Marikina Shoe Industry Development Office , established in 2012 to support the local industry, has been advocating for better compensation and benefits for shoemakers.
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