By Perfecto T. Raymundo, Jr.
MARIKINA CITY – – The annual Balik Eskwela Shoe Bazaar of the shoe capital of the Philippines officially opened on Monday (July 8), featuring 43 leather goods stalls, and will run until August 18.
The Back-to School shoe bazaar is located at the Marikina Freedom Park, which is right in front of the City Hall.
The event aims to provide high-quality, affordable shoes at factory price to students and families as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
Marikina Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the bazaar’s official opening.
Emphasizing the significance of the event for the community, Mayor Marcy highlighted that it is a tremendous service to our citizens, benefiting not only the people of Marikina but also those from surrounding areas.
“Napakalaking serbisyo po nito sa mga kababayan natin, hindi lang mga taga-Marikina, kundi pati sa mga karatig pook natin,” he said.
“Makakakuha sila ng sapatos na matibay, sapatos na maganda, sapatos na functional, at reasonably priced,” he added.
The mayor noted that by buying leather goods such as shoes, people are supporting local businesses, helping them thrive and flourish.
“At marami rin tayo natutulungan, pati sa kanilang kabuhayan, nakikita ko ang ibang bumibili rito, hindi lang naman isang piraso lang, kundi may mga bumibili rin by bulk,” he said.
Mayor Teodoro expressed his gratitude to Tony Andres, chairperson of the Philippine Footwear Federation, Inc., and everyone involved in organizing the shoe bazaar.
“Salamat po, salamat sa lahat ng naririto, sa mga nagtataguyod na patuloy nitong endeavor na ito,” he stressed.
The Balik Eskwela Shoe Bazaar is expected to draw large crowds, showcasing the renowned craftsmanship of Marikina’s shoe industry and supporting local businesses.
Also present during the event were Marikina City councilors, and other city government officials.