Fair Trade and Ecology

  On May 6, 2008, SAFFY Handicrafts & ManoMano Fair Trade Store joined the International Fair Trade Community in celebrating this year's World Fair Trade Day. 

The occasion was marked by exciting and day-long festivities, kicking off with a colorful parade around the vicinity of the SAFRUDI office.  Wearing green T-shirts and carrying balloons, staff, artisans and producers made noise with the help of drums, marched thru and conquered the streets, and proclaimed to the Sta. Ana community " yes to Fair Trade and Ecology!"

During the parade which was accompanied by a colorfully decorated float, banners and placards were hoisted, while leaflets were handed out to residents, tricycle drivers, spectators and passersby to convey the message of Fair Trade.

After the parade, the participants were given inputs on the 10 Standards of Fair Trade, through a presentation facilitated by Executive Director Frony Lapitan.

Right in front of the ManoMano Fair Trade Store, an exhibition of fair trade products, participated in by three independent producer-partners, was opened to the public.  There were house wares, interior decors, garden accessories, fashion, and gift items --- made from all-natural and/or recycled materials.

On the same day, ManoMano Fair Trade Store launched its Second Anniversary Sale. Items are discounted up to 60%.  The Sale runs until the 14th of June 2008.

As a special feature of the day's event, participants and guests were treated to free overflowing cups of the aromatic organic coffee, courtesy of Arengga, a local network-partner and co-Fair Trade Advocate.