Manila-based group gets AirAsia grant

MANILA, Philippines - AirAsia Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Air Asia Group which operates the largest low-cost airline in Asia, on Wednesday recognized a Manila-based craft group as recipient of its US$13,275 grant to train 100 craftsmen in the production of eco-friendly fashion and home accessories.

Recieving the grant at a ceremony at the Bonifacio Global City was Rags2Riches, which to date, has already trained over 800 craftsmen in over 21 communities in the Philippines. The company had previosly collaborated with fashion designers Rajo Laurel, Amina Aranaz-Alunan and Oliver Tolentino.

In addition, Rags2Riches will also gain regional exposure by partnering with the AirAsia Megastore which will help their products be carried onboard AirAsia flights starting July 7.

AirAsia Philippines CEO Marianne Hontiveros said the partnership will not only support a homegrown enterprise but will also help showcase Rags2Riches products with the help of Air Asia flights.

Hontiveros said Air Asia flights will be exclusively carrying Rags2Riches bags, a wristlet and a foldable bag which will be available to passengers on flights originating in the Philippines and Malaysia.

Accessories made by Rags2Riches craftsmen use recycled scrap cloth, organic materials and indigenous materials.

For her part, lawyer Katrina Legarda, AirAsia Foundation chair said Rags2Riches is the right partner for the grant.

"Rags2Riches has sucessfuly transformed the lives of hundreds of artisans through its innovative approach which combines ethical business and evirinmental consciousness. It is a business model ofthe future and through the grant, we aim to not only help the business grow but also share their success story around the region," she said.  - Mike Frialde