Tela Tales Initiative Empowers Iloilo Women Artisans

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, in collaboration with SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), launched the Tela Tales Visayas initiative on October 10 to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for local women artisans.

In partnership with the Homeless People’s Federation of the Philippines – Iloilo, Tela Tales transforms discarded hotel linens, such as old bed sheets and table covers from SMHCC hotels, into handcrafted products like designer bags.

The project helps reduce textile waste and empowers women by equipping them with the skills to create high-quality products. This contributes to their financial independence and supports the region’s zero-waste efforts.

Sonia Cadornigara of the Homeless People’s Federation emphasized the initiative’s impact on the community, particularly for mothers seeking additional income.

“Through Tela Tales, women are not only earning but also contributing to an environmental movement. They gain skills that help them provide for their families,” she said.

The first collection, developed with social entrepreneur Zarah Juan, was unveiled during the launch, showcasing the potential of upcycled fabrics in creating functional yet stylish items.

The products will soon be available at participating SMHCC hotels in Iloilo and Bacolod.

Aligned with SMHCC’s sustainability goals, Tela Tales promotes a circular economy by reducing textile waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. The initiative goes beyond creating products; it tells stories of transformation, both for the artisans and the environment.

By turning discarded fabrics into new, valuable items, the initiative demonstrates the potential for collaboration between businesses and communities to foster sustainable development and economic empowerment.

Additionally, the launch featured a sustainable six-course lunch curated by Chef Diego Trillana. The meal highlighted local produce and minimized food waste, in line with SMHCC’s “Plate for the Planet” program.