A new avenue for Filipino shoemakers
Spatio has partnered with Zapateria, the Philippines’ first creative hub for footwear design, to launch Shoe Avenue, a dedicated home for Marikina-made footwear at Opus Mall. The new concept brings together a curated mix of independent Filipino footwear brands, from established names rooted in generations of shoemaking to emerging labels bringing fresh ideas to materials, silhouettes, and design.
The collaboration builds on Spatio’s commitment to giving Filipino makers a platform alongside established international names. With more than 300 local brands across its three floors, Spatio provides a fitting setting to spotlight Marikina’s shoemaking tradition and the makers carrying it forward.
“We believe local brands have the quality and appeal to stand alongside the best international names,” says Martin De Leon, deputy general manager of Spatio. “Shoe Avenue gives Marikina’s shoemakers a proper stage and gives shoppers footwear with real stories, real hands, and real heritage behind every pair.”
Bringing Marikina’s shoemaking story into a new space
The idea for Shoe Avenue came from conversations between Spatio and Zapateria about how Marikina’s shoemaking culture could be introduced to a wider audience in a way that feels relevant today.
For Zapateria founder Unyx Sta. Ana, the project is about carrying a legacy and a mission forward. With her family’s shoemaking roots dating back to 1887, she sees Shoe Avenue as a way to connect Marikina’s rich history with the makers and designers continuing to shape its future.
“Shoe Avenue is our way of honoring what came before us, drawing inspiration from what continues to be made today, and envisioning what Philippine footwear can still become,” Sta. Ana says. “Marikina carries generations of skill, knowledge, and stories, and that story is still being written.”
Shoe Avenue: A new destination for local footwear
The name itself is a nod to Shoe Avenue in Marikina City, a real street in Marikina that once hummed with shoe shops, workshops, and generations of makers, helping shape the city’s identity as the Philippines’ Shoe Capital.
Zapateria anchors the space with five generations of Marikina shoemaking heritage from the Sta. Ana family. The co-creation studio will bring its own designs to Shoe Avenue, with pieces developed through mentorships, brand partnerships, and collaborations.
Alunsinag, founded in 2024, takes a more contemporary approach while keeping close to the fundamentals of good footwear: comfort, quality, versatility, and thoughtful production. The brand works with Marikina artisans and balances classic silhouettes with modern details. Its Pya Mules were recognized at the 2024 Global Footwear Awards. For founder Ritche Rodulfo, the hope is that customers look beyond the finished product and appreciate the work behind it. “We want them to feel the premium quality and understand the true value of investing in proudly Filipino-made, wearable art.”
Launched in March 2025, Hayo brings a playful and thoughtful perspective to footwear. Its designs combine functionality and comfort with storytelling, drawing from Filipino identity, familiar experiences, and the everyday moments that influence the brand. Being part of Shoe Avenue also gives Hayo a chance to bring that world closer to its customers. “We hope to create a space where people can interact with and experience our work in a way that feels familiar, warm, and distinctly Hayo,” says Yvette Miraflor.
For everyday wear, Posh Pocket is known for its foldable flats and ballerina shoes, handcrafted by Marikina artisans and paired with matching mini pouches. Its Prima ballerinas and Pointy Basic flats have become staples for those looking for footwear that can easily transition from one part of the day to the next.
Bucroe brings a more traditional approach to the lineup. The brand began in 1978 as a mass-production shoemaker before evolving into a bespoke house specializing in custom-fit leather dress shoes. Its Full Brogue Wingtip and Black Cap Toe Oxfords reflect its focus on made-to-measure fit, comfort, and leather craftsmanship. For Edward Limsico, the collaboration is also an opportunity to keep that tradition visible. “Through our tagline, ‘Comfort and Elegance,’ we hope people discover the passion, quality, and story in every piece we craft,” he says.
Meanwhile, Bida Loca adds a playful touch through its handcrafted accessories. Known for its signature Bobbles, the brand creates colorful statement pieces alongside everyday leather essentials such as bags and sandals. “We want people to experience a sense of curiosity and joy when they encounter our work. Most of all, we hope they leave feeling inspired to express themselves and accessorize confidently,” says founder Antje Schwarting.
Charis takes a different approach, putting the Filipino weave at the center of its footwear. Each silhouette starts on a Filipino handloom before being shaped by Marikina shoemakers. Its debut Hiraya mule pairs the signature weave with a clean center-V cut designed for a modern, understated look.
The lineup also extends to the youngest wearers through WumWum, a toddler footwear label built around the idea that little feet should not have to choose between comfort, movement, and good design. Its debut Rascal sneaker features a roomy, ergonomic fit, lightweight flexibility, and a simple two-strap design, with each pair handcrafted in small batches. “We want families to discover that children’s shoes can be expertly crafted without sacrificing comfort or delight,” says Lea Benitez. “We hope they see Wumwum as a trusted companion for every little step, jump, and adventure ahead.”
Shoe Avenue is now open at Spatio on the second floor of Opus Mall, Bridgetowne Destination Estate, Quezon City.
Follow along at @spatio.ph and @zapateriahub for updates.
