The idea of weaving pine needles started in a community of small-scale miners in Benguet. Since the members of the community depend mostly on the amount of gold the men can mine in a day, pine weaving became an alternative source of income for the women. While the men go into the mines, the women are left at home taking care of the house and the children.
In 1988, Ms. Maurcia Lou Carpio’s grandmother introduced the pine needle weaving tradition as a livelihood project. Through time, she also embedded her styles and touch in the said tradition, creating the “Everything is Pine” brand.
“EVERYTHING IS PINE” is a play on words that perfectly capture the brand’s true essence. Showcasing a wide array products carefully crafted from pine needles, it is an epitome of the laid-back ambiance, abundanct nature, and rich culture of Baguio-Benguet. Everything is pine presents a unique style by twisting and binding pine needles to any form of accessories and different pieces, a great choice for souvenirs for any occasions all for reasonable prices.
From the local community, Everything Is Pine strives to produce world-class products that highlight the Cordilleran art of weaving. The company envisions a sustainable livelihood that benefits the whole community of Baguio-Benguet by utilizing the materials of what the City of Baguio is known for, “The City of Pines”.
MISSION/VISION
Everything is Pine envisions a thriving livelihood in that can provide for the community. The company aims to help in the marketing of these products that can lessen the anxiety and stress caused by financial issues among members of the community. The crafting of products also enhances the makers’ imagination and relieves them from worrying about their problems. As the saying goes, “being idle or doing nothing captivates the evil to play with your mind”.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The Province of Benguet is blessed with a cold weather due to its mountainous terrain and high elevation. This allowed the growth of tall and green pine trees in most part of the province. Like every plant, pine trees shed its own leaves and carpets the province with a golden color and for sometime pine needles are considered to be waste. The project of the company helps control the waste by turning these to beautiful pieces of accessories.
The company assures that their handicraft products are made from indigenous and eco-friendly materials.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistance
In 2017, Everything is Pine joined the Kapatid Mentor Me (KMME) Program of DTI. KMME is ten-week program that capacitate its’ mentees with key business knowledge from well-known business owners in the country. Finance, taxation, and business laws were also tackled.
In the same year, the agency was also able to introduce their products in the national fairs handled by DTI. The company debuted in the IMPAKABSAT 2017 at the Festival Mall in November, followed by the National Trade Fair conducted on December 6 to 10 at the SM Megamall. They also took part to major trade fairs in the country thereafter.
The brand also took part in the product development activities under the One Town One Product Next Generation (OTOP Next Gen). Through the program, the company was introduced to new designs and other product development opportunities to make their products in par with international products.
In preparation for exporting opportunities, the Philippine Export Cordillera Chapter welcomed the company into the fold of future exporters. Much of the activities participated by the group are towards promotion and readiness in the world market.
company is a testament that earth’s gifts are precious. One only needs a creative mind to work something worthy as an art. ♦
Date of Release: 3 November 2022