Bamboo is known for its strength and flexibility. It has been used for building in most of Asia and in tropical regions for more than a thousand years. 

Fast forward to today, when the rise of the eco-friendly movement has brought consumer demand for biodegradable and sustainable materials, paving the way for manufacturers to use bamboo as an alternative to synthetic elements.

“While brainstorming for some fundraising projects, Ethel (Ilagan Consulta) mentioned that bamboo products are much sought-after in Hong Kong right now,” says Aisa Lecciones Hermeno. Both are from UPIS Batch ‘97 and members of the Fundraising Committee.

It was the perfect choice. Both the initial and second releases of the ALAB UP Tumbler immediately sold out, even before the product was formally launched. Orders came in from UPIS Batch ‘97 alumni based in the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore, Canada, United States, Australia, and New Zealand.

Here are five reasons why you should get your own ALAB UP Tumbler:

1. It is made by a social enterprise.

   The ALAB UP Tumbler is manufactured by The Bamboo Company, whose environmental mission is to reduce plastic pollution and rural poverty, with bamboo as its primary material for its products. They are based in Marikina City, Philippines, and have provided economic opportunities to local bamboo harvesters.

2. It is sustainably-sourced.

   The ALAB UP Tumbler casing is made from bamboo that is cultivated and harvested through sustainable methods. Bamboo is fast-growing and prolific and can be easily propagated without the need for hazardous pesticides and irrigation that may cause soil erosion, pollution of surface and groundwater, and algal blooms. 

3. It contributes to the green initiative.

   The ALAB UP Tumbler is reusable, which means that every time you use it you are not contributing to the global plastic epidemic. It is perfect for those who are on-the-go and ready to ditch single-use containers. Plastic bottles have littered our planet for so long and the shift to the reduce-reuse-recycle mindset is a timely decision that everyone should readily adopt. 

4. It is healthy to use.

   The ALAB UP Tumbler interior and tea strainer is made of food-grade and high quality stainless steel. It does not have Bisphenol A (BPA), a harmful chemical that affects the brain and cardiovascular system that is commonly found in plastic bottles. Using this tumbler means lessening your exposure to the said toxin. 

5. It supports a worthwhile cause

   Proceeds of the sale of the ALAB UP Tumbler will be devoted to the Legacy Project and other homecoming initiatives. These include providing financial support for UP Integrated School (UPIS) scholars in need and internship opportunities for Grade 12 students, sponsoring career guidance talks, building a UP Town Center marker, and funding a tribute program for alumni jubilarians and teachers.