It’s time for 'made in Marikina'

It was heartbreaking to watch the viral videos of the iconic giant shoe landmark in the Marikina River being swept away by floods brought by Typhoon Ulysses before hitting a bridge, breaking in two, and going under. In the shoemakers’ ateliers, brands like Posh Pocket Shoes, beloved for their comfortable flats, have been offering a look at unreleased shoe styles that they have been working on for months, now covered in mud.

Marikina is our local pride, famed around the world for its cobblers. Last year, Mayor Marcelino Teodoro said the Marikina shoe industry is worth at least P1 billion. Out of Marikina comes some of the best handmade shoes. Now is the best time to support local. Let’s bring the focus to shoes.

After our donations have helped them tide over the most critical phase in recovery, choosing 'made in Marikina' allows them to pick up the pieces and carry on with their livelihood. I know, Ulysses was a consequence of, among other things, climate change; and we don’t really need any more “stuff.” But you can probably use some “new normal” shoes about now, right?

Buy only what sparks joy, not just for now, but for a very long time. Refuse the temptation of dime-a-dozen fast fashion and go for something handmade that you will love for life. It’s really the most sustainable way to shop.

Here’s a lounge-ready edit of the beautiful footwear made in our beloved shoemaking capital.