Turning conflict into craftsmanship

Armed conflict has raged in isolated areas of the Philippines, claiming thousands of lives and leaving many places damaged and impoverished. Over the past years, newly peaceful communities have slowly emerged. However, maintaining peace remains a challenge as it requires providing sustainable livelihoods for these communities.

Launched in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, Products of Peace is a movement that rebuilds war-torn communities from the grassroots level, by harnessing their resilience and creativity to produce fair trade goods. Every purchase brings them closer to lasting peace and prosperity.

Products of Peace was launched in the Philippines’ most anticipated trade fair. Many of its products became a hit with fairgoers, earning more than half a million pesos over the two-day event. They have since been sold in various bazaars and boutiques, and soon online. As more newly peaceful communities emerge, more Products of Peace will be introduced into the market.