The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), through the Philippine Footwear Federation, Inc. (PFFI), has partnered with Miss Universe Philippines 2026 to showcase locally developed footwear innovations, worn by this year’s candidates as their official footwear.
These shoes are produced under the SAFATOS Marikina brand, which adopts and applies technologies developed through DOST-PTRI’s Shoes and Footwear Accessories R&D Towards Omnibus Solutions (SAFATOS) Program.
The collaboration highlights the integration of locally sourced textile fibers into footwear uppers, alongside a precision sizing system that ensures a more accurate fit for each candidate throughout the competition.
The SAFATOS Program is DOST-PTRI’s flagship initiative for advancing Philippine textile applications in footwear, covering the development of engineered uppers, insoles, a Filipino-standardized sizing system, and the use of computer-assisted manufacturing and mass customization.
Marikina has long been recognized as the “Shoe Capital of the Philippines,” yet the industry continues to navigate challenges such as reliance on imported materials and shifting market demands. Through SAFATOS, DOST-PTRI aims to revitalize the local footwear industry by promoting the use of Philippine-based textile materials and strengthening local manufacturing capabilities.
Natural fibers such as abaca, banana, bamboo, and pineapple leaves are being developed through technological innovations for footwear design, enabling the production of 100 percent locally made, sustainable footwear materials.
“This partnership reflects how science and design can come together to elevate Filipino products,” said DOST-PTRI Director IV Dr. Julius L. Leaño, Jr. “By applying textile innovation to footwear, we are not only supporting local industries but also creating new opportunities to showcase Filipino ingenuity on a larger stage.”
He added that long-term industry recovery should go beyond the service sector, emphasizing the importance of strengthening manufacturing by capitalizing on the country’s textiles and available resources to achieve greater self-reliance.
Led by DOST-PTRI, SAFATOS advances the integration of natural textile fibers for footwear. By integrating research, material development, and industry collaboration, the program supports Marikina shoemakers in producing high-quality, environmentally responsible, and globally competitive products.
The initiative is backed by key partners from government, industry, manufacturing, and the creative sector, including the Philippine Footwear Federation, Inc. (PFFI), the Marikina City local government, Zapateria Hub, Thian Rodriguez MNL, and Lee Villanueva of Alunsinag. The partnership was formalized through a ceremonial signing during the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 media launch.
“Beyond the runway glamour, the collaboration symbolizes heritage, sustainability, and national pride. By connecting textile science with fashion and footwear, DOST-PTRI continues to drive solutions that support both economic growth and environmental responsibility. With Miss Universe Philippines 2026 as a high-visibility platform, the partnership paves the way for Filipino-made footwear to earn global recognition—proving that local innovation can compete on the world stage,” said Leaño.
For more information and inquiries about SAFATOS Marikina or DOST-PTRI programs, contact ptri@ptri.dost.gov.ph or visit facebook.com/ptri.dost.
