Sustainability is to the practice of meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It encompasses environmental, social, and economic considerations, aiming to achieve a balance between the three pillars of sustainability.
Importance of supporting sustainable products in the country
Sustainability is of utmost importance in the Philippine context due to the country's unique environmental challenges. With its rich biodiversity, vulnerable ecosystems, and exposure to natural disasters, the Philippines faces significant environmental threats, such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change. Embracing sustainability is crucial for preserving the country's natural resources, protecting its biodiversity, and ensuring the well-being and resilience of its people.
By promoting sustainable practices, the country can mitigate environmental degradation, support small business ideas and local communities, foster economic growth, and strive towards a more resilient and equitable future. Sustainability has become a pressing global concern, and businesses play a crucial role in creating a sustainable future
In the Philippines, numerous local brands have emerged, embracing sustainable practices and contributing to environmental and social well-being and over the years, an increasing number of local brands and businesses have recognized the importance of incorporating sustainable practices into their operations.
Many companies have taken steps to minimize their environmental impact, such as implementing energy-efficient measures, adopting eco-friendly packaging, and sourcing sustainable materials. Moreover, several brands have emerged with a strong focus on social and environmental responsibility, offering products that are organic, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced.
The growing awareness and demand for sustainable products and practices among Filipino consumers have further incentivized companies to prioritize sustainability, driving positive change and paving the way for a more environmentally conscious business landscape in the country.
Today, we will highlight 20 Filipino local brands and businesses that are leading the way in promoting sustainability.
Personal Care Filipino brands
1. Messy Bessy
Messy Bessy offers a range of eco-friendly home and personal care products made from natural ingredients. They support disadvantaged communities by providing jobs and donating part of their profits to education initiatives.
This business is a Filipino local brand that offers eco-friendly home and personal care products. It was founded by Krie Lopez in 2007. The brand's beginnings can be traced back to a project called "House of Hope," which aimed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for abused children. During this project, Krie realized that traditional cleaning products used in the facility contained harmful chemicals that could potentially affect the children's health which inspired her to create an alternative solution and develop her own line of natural and non-toxic cleaning products. Krie named the brand Messy Bessy after her pet dog, who often made a mess but brought joy to her life.
Website: www.messybessy.com Facebook: @messybessycleaners Instagram: @messybessyofficial
2. Human Nature
Human Nature is a brand known for its organic and natural personal care products. They support local farming communities, advocate for fair trade, and prioritize environmental sustainability.
Human Nature is a Filipino local personal care and beauty brand that was founded in 2008 by Anna Meloto-Wilk, Camille Meloto, and Dylan Wilk. The company's origins can be traced back to the Meloto family's social enterprise, Gandang Kalikasan Inc.(GKI), which aimed to uplift impoverished communities through sustainable livelihood opportunities. Human Nature quickly gained recognition for its high-quality, cruelty-free, and environmentally friendly products, and has since become a leading brand in the Philippines' natural and sustainable personal care industry.
Website: humanheartnature.com Facebook: @humanheartnature Instagram: @humanheartnature
Make up Filipino brands
1. In Her Element
In Her Element is a Filipino local makeup brand that focuses on creating clean and eco-friendly beauty products. They utilize natural and plant-based ingredients to formulate their cosmetics. In addition to their sustainable product offerings, they also emphasize responsible packaging and ethical sourcing.
This business in the Philippines was founded by Liz Lanuzo in 2016 when she noticed a gap in the market for effective and high-quality skincare products specifically designed for Filipinas. Inspired by her passion for skincare and the desire to address this gap, she decided to create her own line of products that catered to the unique needs of Filipina skin.
Website: www.inherelement.ph
Facebook: @inher_element
Instagram: @inher_element
2. Ellana Mineral Cosmetics
Ellana Mineral Cosmetics is a local makeup brand in the Philippines known for their mineral-based and cruelty-free products. They are committed to sustainability by using clean ingredients and packaging their products in eco-friendly materials. They also advocate for conscious beauty practices and empower their customers to make ethical choices.
Started in 2008, this Filipino business was founded by Theresa Carbonel-Buenaflor, a former beauty blogger. Theresa identified a need for high-quality, mineral-based makeup products that were suitable for sensitive skin and the hot and humid climate of the Philippines.
Website: www.ellanacosmetics.com Facebook: @ellanaminerals Instagram: @ellanaminerals
4. Colourette Cosmetics
Colourette Cosmetics is a Filipino local makeup brand that focuses on creating versatile and inclusive products. They promote sustainable beauty by using cruelty-free ingredients and packaging their products in recyclable materials. They also prioritize social responsibility by supporting local communities and advocating for self-expression.
The brand was founded by Nina Ellaine Dizon-Cabrera, who wanted to create a makeup line that celebrates individuality and empowers people to express themselves. Colourette Cosmetics initially gained its fame through their bestselling product and the most popular product, Colourtint. Started as a small business, Colourette Cosmetics has since expanded its product range, offering a wide variety of makeup products that continue to resonate with Filipinos who appreciate local, sustainable, and inclusive beauty brands.
Website: www.colourettecosmetics.com Facebook: @Colourette.Cosmetics Instagram: @colourette.cosmetics
Fashion Filipino brand ideas in the Philippines
1. Rags2Riches
Rags2Riches is a social enterprise that empowers local artisans to create beautiful and sustainable fashion accessories from upcycled materials. They focus on fair trade practices and ethical sourcing.
In 2007, Reese Fernandez-Ruiz, along with a group of friends, saw the potential in transforming scrap fabrics into fashionable bags and accessories. They collaborated with artisans from low-income communities in the Philippines, teaching them the skills to create beautiful products. The success of their venture led them to expand their product range, which eventually included sustainable cosmetics.
Website: www.rags2riches.ph
Facebook: @rags2richesinc
Instagram: @rags2richesinc
2. Gouache
Gouache specializes in handcrafted bags and accessories made from locally sourced and upcycled materials, such as repurposed canvas and leather scraps. They prioritize fair trade practices and promote conscious consumerism.
This was founded by three individuals passionate about sustainable fashion and design: Reinar Mañago, Jackie Mañago, and Kristine Gancayco in 2012. The brand began by repurposing surplus and upcycled military materials into functional and stylish bags, backpacks, and accessories, promoting ethical fashion and conscious consumerism business in the Philippines.
Website: www.gouachebags.com Facebook: @GouacheBags Instagram: @gouachebags
3. Jacinto & Lirio
Jacinto & Lirio creates stylish and sustainable bags and accessories made from water hyacinth, an invasive plant species in the Philippines. By using this material, they help mitigate its environmental impact.
A Filipino local brand found in 2009 by Anna Oposa and Noreen Bautista, who aimed to address the environmental issue of water hyacinth infestation in the Philippines. They saw an opportunity to turn the invasive plant into a sustainable material for fashion and accessories. Starting with handbags, Jacinto & Lirio expanded its product line to include wallets, organizers, and other accessories made from water hyacinth, promoting eco-consciousness, supporting local communities, and showcasing Filipino craftsmanship.
Website: www.jacintoandlirio.com Facebook: @jacintoandlirio Instagram: @jacintoandlirio
4. Risque Designs
Risque Designs is a jewelry brand in the Philippines that uses upcycled and ethically sourced materials to create unique pieces. They promote sustainable fashion and support fair trade practices.
It is a Filipino local jewelry brand, started in 2011 and founded by sisters-in-law Rique and Sasa Garcia who shared a passion for sustainable fashion and design. They began by creating unique pieces of jewelry using upcycled and ethically sourced materials, focusing on promoting sustainable fashion and supporting local artisans in the Philippines.
Website: www.risquedesignsph.com Facebook: @RisqueDesigns Instagram: @risquedesignsph
5. HABI: The Philippine Textile Council
HABI promotes the use of Philippine traditional textiles and advocates for sustainable and ethical fashion practices. They support local weavers and artisans, preserving cultural heritage while promoting sustainable livelihoods.
HABI was established in 2009 by a group of Filipino textile enthusiasts whose mission was to preserve and promote Philippine traditional textiles and weaving techniques. Recognizing the decline of traditional weaving practices, HABI aimed to revitalize the industry and provide support to local weavers and artisans through various initiatives, such as exhibitions, workshops, and partnerships.
Website: www.habitextilecouncil.ph
Facebook: @habicollective
Instagram: @habicollective
Food and Beverage local brands in the Philippines
1. Theo & Philo
Theo & Philo is a Filipino chocolate brand that promotes sustainable sourcing and fair trade practices. They collaborate with local farmers in the Philippines to ensure the highest quality ingredients while supporting rural communities.
The company was founded by Philo Chua in 2010, who was inspired by his love for chocolate and his desire to promote Philippine cacao. Philo wanted to showcase the unique flavors of Philippine cacao beans and support local farmers. He began experimenting with different flavor combinations and production techniques, creating artisanal chocolates that celebrate the rich taste of Philippine cocoa.
Website: www.theoandphilo.com Facebook: @theoandphilo Instagram: @theoandphilo
2. Sip PH
Sip PH produces reusable stainless-steel straws, water bottles, and other sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic items. Their products aim to reduce plastic waste and raise awareness about the importance of eco-conscious choices.
This business was founded by Sharlene Ruiz and Raelene Tan-Canlas, who aimed to address the issue of plastic straw pollution in the Philippines. They began by offering sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic straws, such as stainless-steel straws and bamboo straws and now expanded its product range to include reusable water bottles and other eco-friendly lifestyle products.
Website: www.sip.ph
Facebook: @sipsteelstraws
Instagram: @sipsteelstraws
3. Bayani Brew
Bayani Brew produces locally sourced and organically grown beverages, including iced teas and herbal infusions. They support local farmers in the Philippines and promote sustainable agriculture practices.
Bayani Brew, a Filipino local beverage brand, started in 2012 as a social enterprise. It was founded by three friends—Tetra, Ron, and Raoul—who wanted to create a beverage that showcased Philippine-grown ingredients and supported local farmers. They started by producing iced teas and herbal infusions made from locally sourced ingredients, such as lemongrass and pandan leaves, while prioritizing sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.
Website: www.bayanibrew.com Facebook: @BayaniBrew Instagram: @bayanibrew
4. Philippine Coffee Alliance
The Philippine Coffee Alliance is a collective of coffee growers, roasters, and enthusiasts who promote sustainable coffee production. They advocate for fair trade, organic farming, and environmental conservation. By uniting various stakeholders in the coffee sector, the Philippine Coffee Alliance aims to elevate the quality and reputation of Philippine coffee while supporting local farmers and advocating for a more sustainable and inclusive coffee industry.
Website: www.philippinecoffeealliance.org Facebook: @PhilippineCoffeeAlliance Instagram: @philippinecoffeealliance
5. Locally PH
Locally PH is a Filipino local juice brand that celebrates the unique flavors of the Philippines. They offer a range of fruit juices made from locally grown fruits, emphasizing sustainable sourcing and supporting local farmers. They also prioritize using glass bottles, which are more environmentally friendly compared to single-use plastic bottles.
It is a Filipino local beverage brand, started in 2015 with a vision to celebrate the unique flavors of the Philippines founded by three friends—Nikki, Mikko, and Bea—who sought to showcase local fruits and ingredients through refreshing and locally-inspired beverage creations.
Website: www.locally.ph Facebook: @locallyph Instagram: @locally_ph
Tourism and travel businesses in the Philippines
1. Eighth Wonder
Eighth Wonder is a sustainable tourism company that focuses on eco-friendly travel experiences in the Philippines. They prioritize environmental conservation and work closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism practices. It started with a mission to showcase the beauty of the Philippines and promote eco-friendly travel experiences.
Website: www.eighthwonder.ph
Facebook: @eighthwonderph
Instagram: @eighthwonderph
2. The Circle Hostel
The Circle Hostel is a sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation option for travelers in the Philippines. They promote responsible tourism, organize community engagement activities, and advocate for environmental conservation.
It is a business that started in 2013 by Ziggie Gonzales and his friends, who wanted to provide budget travelers with a unique and environmentally conscious place to stay in the Philippines.
Website: www.thecirclehostel.com Facebook: @thecirclehostel Instagram: @thecirclehostel
2. Masungi Georeserve
Masungi Georeserve is a local conservation area and eco-tourism destination in the Philippines. They offer guided tours that provide visitors with an opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area while promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. Masungi Georeserve prioritizes conservation efforts and sustainable practices, focusing on reforestation, wildlife protection, and eco-friendly infrastructure.
This business started as a private initiative in 1996. It was founded by Billie and Ann Dumaliang, who aimed to protect and rehabilitate the limestone karst landscape in Rizal, Philippines. The couple, along with a team of dedicated individuals, transformed the area into a nature reserve, offering guided tours that educate visitors about conservation, reforestation, and environmental sustainability.
Website: www.masungigeoreserve.com Facebook: @MasungiGeoreserve Instagram: @masungigeoreserve
Filipino Home brands
1. The Bamboo Company
The Bamboo Company creates sustainable and stylish products made from bamboo, such as accessories, home decor, and furniture in the Philippines. By promoting bamboo as a renewable resource, they contribute to environmental sustainability.
This business idea started in 2009 with a mission to promote sustainable and eco-friendly products made from bamboo. It was founded by a group of individuals who recognized the versatility and environmental benefits of bamboo as a renewable resource.
Website: www.thebamboocompany.ph Facebook: @TheBambooCompany Instagram: @thebamboocompany
2. Bria Homes
Bria Homes is a real estate developer in the Philippines that emphasizes sustainability in its projects. The company integrates sustainable design principles, eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient features into its developments. Bria Homes also prioritizes the use of renewable energy sources and implements green building practices to minimize the environmental impact of its projects. Additionally, Bria Homes focuses on creating sustainable and inclusive communities by providing access to basic amenities, promoting green spaces, and fostering a sense of belonging among residents.
Through its commitment to sustainability, Bria Homes aims to create affordable and environmentally responsible housing options for Filipino families while contributing to a more sustainable future.
Website: www.bria.com.ph
Facebook: @BriaHomesInc
Instagram: @briahomesofficial
You can visit their website to explore their projects, learn more about their sustainable initiatives, and access their contact information for inquiries or further engagement. Additionally, their social media accounts provide updates, insights, and a platform for communication with the Bria Homes community.
You can do your part and support these business ideas in the Philippines.
These 20 Filipino local brands and businesses exemplify the commitment to sustainability in the Philippines. Through their practices, they champion eco-consciousness, ethical sourcing, fair trade, and community empowerment.
Their efforts contribute to a more sustainable future by promoting environmental conservation, supporting local communities, and fostering conscious consumer choices. By supporting these local brands, individuals can actively participate when it comes to creating a greener and more sustainable society.
Supporting and using local sustainable products, brands, and businesses is crucial for several compelling reasons.
First, it fosters environmental preservation by reducing carbon footprints associated with transportation and supporting local sourcing practices that prioritize sustainable production and ethical labor conditions. It also promotes community development by empowering local entrepreneurs, supporting local jobs, and contributing to the local economy. It also enables consumers to make conscious choices aligned with their values, as local sustainable products often prioritize ethical sourcing, fair trade, and transparency. And lastly, by supporting this kind of business, if you want to, you can become part of a collective effort to create a more sustainable future.