Blessings from the islands

The recent Biyaya Sustainable Living Festival brought together farmers, artisans and changemakers in a vibrant celebration of Philippine heritage and craftsmanship. With a vision to uplift local communities and create sustainable opportunities, the festival showcased the best of Filipino coffee, textiles and handmade crafts. Held at Parqal, it highlighted the deep connection between tradition and innovation, proving that conscious living can be both meaningful and inspiring.

One of the festival’s most historic moments was the Agence pour la Valorisation des Produits Agricoles (AVPA) awarding ceremony, where four Philippine heritage coffees received international recognition. Among them was a Batangas Barako blend, making history as the first of its kind to be honored. Farmers from Sultan Kudarat and Sagada were also awarded for their exceptional coffees, further solidifying the Philippines’ place on the global coffee stage.

The festival marked the fashion debut of Tahi, a brand that reimagines local weaves into contemporary silhouettes. The runway, aptly named The Walk, celebrated Filipino artisanship, bringing heritage textiles into modern fashion while promoting sustainability in design.

Beyond the ceremonies and the catwalk, the three-day festival was filled with immersive experiences — coffee tastings, craft showcases, live demonstrations and workshops on sustainable living. Visitors connected with the hands behind the craft, reinforcing the importance of supporting local.