Marikina: ''The Shoe Capital of the Philippines''
The City of Marikina (Lungsod ng Marikina, in Tagalog), in the Philippines,
is one of the 17 cities that make up Metro Manila, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world.
Marikina was former capital of the province of Manila during the declaration of Philippine Independence.
Marikina was given the title the Shoe Capital of the Philippines because of its notable shoe industry,
being the biggest manufacturer of shoes in the Philippines, producing almost 70% of shoe production in the country.
Shoemakers in the city recently finished creating the World's Largest Pair of Shoes
and it was only recently that the Guinness World Records recognized this feat.
Marikina is noted as one of tourism and cultural hub in Metro Manila,
it is also the home of Philippine Footwear Federation.
Aside the traditional shoe and leather industry,
many places in Marikina are now recognized for its eco-friendly points, balance of industry, people and nature.
''World's Largest Shoes is found in Marikina City''
Officially recognized and certified by the Guinness Book Of World Records,
the pair of shoes measurre 529 centimeter(5.29 meters)long measures 237 centimeters(2.37 meters)width
and is made of genuine leather. The upper lining it took 77 days to finish(August 5, 2002 to October 21,2002).
Due to its sheer size, it was built at the Marikina Sports Center.
Upcon completion, the shoes were displayed at the entrance of the Sports Center,
then later transferred to the Marikina Riverbanks where it is located until present.
The Shoe Museum was conceived in 1998 under then Mayor Bayani F. Fernando on the assumption that the City,
being the Shoe Capital of the Philippines,
can be a significant venue for nurturing the historical and cultural values of its shoe industry.
It was opened in February 16, 2001 and was initially called the Footwear Museum of Marikina.
The Shoe Museum is deftly organized into the following collections:
that of the world reknowned shoes of former Philippine First Lady, Imelda Marcos;
assortment of shoes worn by personages.
''Finished Shoe Product of Marikina''
"baby shoes''
''Lady Shoes''
''Lady Shoes''
''Lady Shoes''
''Lady Shoes''
''Lady Shoes''
'Gentlemen's Shoes''
"Sneakers''