Celebrating 30 years since its first appearance at Manila FAME in 1995, the Cagayan de Oro-based Indigenous PH reflects its continuous creative evolution and steadfast commitment to Filipino artistry and conscious craftsmanship.

Indigenous PH began as a humble stationery shop in 1993 under the name Cagayan de Oro Handmade Paper Crafts, founded by sustainability advocate Lolita Cabanlet. The brand initially produced handmade paper goods such as photo albums, journals, and cards, before expanding into packaging materials like gift bags and boxes. Over time, its offerings evolved to include handcrafted and versatile home accents, particularly lamps, tabletops, and other pieces made from sustainable materials such as abaca and coconut fiber.

Through shows such as Manila FAME, Indigenous PH steadily built a reputation for quality, creativity, and sustainability. Today, its products are proudly exported to markets across Asia, the United States, and Europe.

At Manila FAME 2025, Indigenous PH brought a fresh, compelling presence—hoping to connect with buyers through the values they uphold and the stories woven into each piece.

Homegrown Brand

Playing with a thoughtful mix of material innovation and natural inspiration, and drawing from the show’s theme “Object of Nature,” Indigenous PH presented to eager buyers and design enthusiasts a collection featuring coconut fiber shaped into columns and collapsible tall lamps, home decors inspired by sea urchins and umbrellas, and tabletop accents reminiscent of sand and cement.

Indigenous PH designed its showcase to spark a sense of connection with each piece—inviting visitors to imagine how it might live in their own space, or even inspire personal customization. “What we really offer is the maaliwalas feel, since most of our lampshades are dim. We also feature different textures on our walls to inspire experimentation with the paper textures we have,” shares Nicole Cabanlet, the brand’s creative director, interior designer, and daughter of its founder, Lolita Cabanlet.

“The world needs sustainable items for it to heal,” she adds. Over the years, Indigenous PH has poured heart and intention into their craft. If their pieces could speak, they would tell a story that began with stationery in 1993 and grew into home accessories and lighting—each creation a quiet call for a more sustainable world. This mission has guided them from the start.

Evolving the brand’s products, however, takes more than aesthetics. Indigenous PH continuously applies research to improve the durability of its handmade paper. “We ensure that every item we produce is biodegradable and compostable—designed to return to the earth that gave us its materials.”

 Growing with craft

Like any business, Indigenous PH also had a learning curve. Cabanlet shared that they used to package their products in bubble wrap—an approach they had to unlearn over time. They once had a U.S.-based buyer who requested that no plastic be used at all. Since then, even in their components, they’ve avoided materials like straw and nylon, choosing instead to use only organic alternatives. Today, they use pattern paper and peanut paper for packaging.

Moreover, the brand advocates for continuous learning, self-reflection, and the development of individual design thinking. While imitation offers an easy path, creativity reaches its fullest potential through originality. In material manipulation and composition, the brand’s in-house designers are encouraged to stay authentic, since constantly looking at others’ work can limit creative potential.

Through the years, Indigenous PH remains faithful to its sustainability core and dream where each Filipino household owns sustainable products, especially made by the brand. Cabanlet also stressed the bigger role they play in their immediate community. “Our work creates jobs and helps farmers support their families.

Be part of the Exchange. Join us at Manila FAME and the Sustainability Solutions Exchange Conference and Exhibition this 2026!