The team went back to its roots, affirming the vision that started it all. “Pili Ani was built so we could help our farmers and communities in the Bicol region. These are the people who are responsible for the planting, harvesting, and creation of two very special oils sustainably sourced from the Pili tree: Pili and Elemi Oils.” They also looked inwards with the aim of defining identity and determining the message they hope to convey.

Mary Jane confides that as they sought counsel from communications experts abroad, they were often asked: “Do you really want to position yourself as a proudly Philippine-made product?” It didn’t take long for Mary Jane and her team to respond with a resounding “Yes.” Since inception, the company has always believed in celebrating the artisanal work of local farmers. Now more than ever, their resolve is firm. “We want to highlight a Philippine-made artisanal holistic brand that combines both traditional and sustainable techniques of our farmers. Read more.