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.
