Marikina’s Heart and Sole: Preserving the City's Shoemaking Legacy Through Oral Narratives of Generational Shoemakers

Abstract

This study explores the intergenerational transmission of shoemaking knowledge in Marikina City, widely known as the “Shoe Capital of the Philippines.” As the local footwear industry faces decline due to globalization, trade liberalization, technological shifts, and generational disinterest, this research examines how traditional craftsmanship is preserved through the oral narratives of generational shoemakers. Using a qualitative ethnographic approach, the study draws from in-depth interviews and field observations with artisans and manufacturers who have practiced or inherited the craft. Utilizing theories on Cultural Transmission and Oral History, the research identifies how skills, values, and cultural identity are passed from one generation to another, whether through familial instruction, mentorship, or community-based learning. Findings reveal that despite economic challenges, shoemakers uphold the quality and cultural value of gawang Marikina shoes. The study highlights the industry's vulnerabilities and resiliencies, offering insights into how intangible heritage can endure in contemporary contexts. By amplifying the voices of sapateros, this research contributes to the broader discourse on cultural preservation, labor, and local identity in the Philippines.