MAWAB, Davao de Oro – What started as a small family business in 1990 is now making its mark in the local footwear industry, thanks to creative reinvention, bold leadership, and a renewed focus on Filipino craftsmanship.
Founded by Mr. and Mrs. Yambot, Monching Footwear began by producing handcrafted shoes using synthetic materials. Breaking into the market wasn’t easy, but the couple pushed forward, partnering with retailers like NCCC, JS Gaisano, and Shopee. They later added Mindanao's indigenous weaves into their designs, blending tradition with innovation.
Reviving tradition
In 2023, their son Arjay Yambot left his corporate career to revive the family brand. Motivated by pride and purpose, he worked with local shoemakers to breathe new life into Monching Footwear.
“I wanted to return to our roots,” Arjay said. “To honor our legacy, I had to work with people who truly value handmade shoes.”
His first product line—made from synthetic materials—struggled to sell, forcing him to pause in-house production. The decision risked the jobs of skilled artisans. Unwilling to let that happen, Arjay joined them in the workshop to learn the craft himself.
“I couldn’t bear the thought of our artisans losing their jobs; they are the heartbeat of our business,” he said. With hands-on experience, Arjay reimagined the product line. He introduced improved soles and incorporated locally woven fabrics, balancing form, function, and Filipino identity. The shift supported local weavers and farmers, and reestablished Monching’s identity as a socially rooted brand.
“To be a true leader, you must immerse yourself in every aspect of your business,” he emphasized.
Continued evolution
As Monching grew, it rebranded as Shoesource of Monching Footwear Manufacturing—marking a new chapter under fresh leadership while staying true to its roots in innovation and craftsmanship.
The business continues to support local communities by creating jobs and generating income for artisans and weavers.
In 2023, it launched Project Mindanao Weave-Based, its first major initiative under the new name. Backed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of Davao de Oro, the project features a footwear line made from sustainable materials. It highlights the cultural heritage of Mindanao’s weavers and beadmakers, aiming to promote their craft and uplift their livelihoods.
Growth through mentorship
To grow the business sustainably, Arjay joined the Kapatid Mentor ME Program (KMME) in 2023, a mentorship initiative by DTI and Go Negosyo. He completed all 10 modules, crafted a Business Improvement Plan, and finished second in the province-wide pitch presentation.
His experience fueled a more strategic approach to entrepreneurship. “It gave me the confidence to face challenges with creativity and purpose,” he said.
Monching soon joined key industry events and trade shows, including: Davao de Oro Fashion Show (Sept. 2023), Kawankawan! Davao Region Weaving Congress (Oct. 2023), Davao de Oro Exporters Forum (Mar. 2024),
Eco Fest Bazaar (Apr. 2024), and Mindanao Trade Expo at Glorietta Mall and OTOP Pavilion at Manila FAME (Oct. 2024).
Each event helped Monching expand its reach and build a broader customer base.
From revival to recognition
In March 2025, Shoesource of Monching Footwear Manufacturing won the MSME Asenso Award – Micro Enterprise Category (Mindanao) from DTI, recognizing excellence in product quality, innovation, and impact.
From just ₱150,000 in total sales in 2022, revenue doubled to ₱300,000 by October 2024. The company now employs six regular and four on-call staff members, providing income through commission or production-based pay.
Walking toward the future
More than just making shoes, Monching builds livelihoods and tells stories—each pair representing the hands that made it and the culture that shaped it.
“We proudly support this journey—rooted in promise, driven by passion, and guided by purpose,” said DTI Davao de Oro Provincial Director Art Hermoso. “With creativity and courage, anything is possible.”
Monching Footwear continues to grow—walking with pride, one step at a time. PR