The Tote-ally Green Bag Project is a new initiative that aims to turn waste into valuable resources by upcycling plastic bags and tarpaulins from the community and around the region, announced Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap over the weekend.
The project strives to achieve its goals by collaborating with stakeholders throughout the implementation. This initiative will serve as a livelihood for women in Tagbilaran City while providing them with skills and development opportunities, the mayor said in a post.
“We are proud to announce our partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the International Bazaar Foundation Inc., the City Government of Tagbilaran, and renowned designer Zarah Juan for this project,” she said.
“The limited edition bags alongside other Filipino craftsmanship of our partner communities will be participating in the New York Fashion Week which serves as a way to showcase designers’ creations with presentations and runway shows for fashion journalists and store buyers,” the Mayor added.
The Tote-ally Green Bag will be launched in the ASEAN or the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the flagship store of Zarah Juan in August.
This will also be showcased in the International Bazaar on November which is one of the most anticipated bazaars that ushers in the start of Christmas festivities. It enjoys the participation of the diplomatic community as well as Filipino product exhibitors.
This initiative will contribute to sustainable and inclusive economic growth by addressing environmental and societal challenges, Mayor Yap noted.
Present during the signing of the memorandum of agreement were Mayor Jane Yap, designer Zarah Juan, Department of Foreign Affairs; International Bazaar Foundation, Inc. Madame Pamela Manalo (Chairperson) with Executive Director, Ms. Nora Salazar; and Spark! Philippines Executive Director Maica Teves at the Carlos P. Garcia Hall, DFA Main Office, Pasay City.