The community of Mambugsay is located in Negros Occidental, around two hours away from the Bacolod city proper. Getting there requires a vehicle capable of trekking an incline of rough roads and streams.
This area was helped by the Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation, Inc., a non-governmental organization that provides water access to rural communities in the Philippines. A part of their project in Mambugsay is to provide an agricultural means of livelihood for the community, after finding out that the soil in the area is good for growing lemongrass.
This area was helped by the Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation, Inc., a non-governmental organization that provides water access to rural communities in the Philippines.
A part of their project in Mambugsay is to provide an agricultural means of livelihood for the community, after finding out that the soil in the area is good for growing lemongrass.
Their communal area in the middle of the steep terrains of Mambugsay.
One of the farmers of the community, showing us how to properly harvest Lemongrass.
The transport of the harvest to the community hub for air drying.
Due to the terrain, there is a need for a carabao to transport the lemongrass efficiently.
Cutting up and weighing the air dried lemongrass prior to distillation.
The process produces two main products: the lemongrass oil, and the lemongrass hydrosol.
The community still makes use of firewood to heat up the chamber. This is ideal for 2-3 loads.
We met the farmers of the community. They were very willing to let us try harvesting the lemongrass and join us as we toured around various areas where they plant their produce.
200 kilograms of lemongrass produces a single liter of oil. The byproduct is used for mulching.
The Lemongrass Story
Mambugsay was helped by the Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation, Inc., a non-governmental organization that provides water access to rural communities in the Philippines.
A part of their project in Mambugsay is to provide an agricultural means of livelihood for the community, after finding out that the soil in the area is good for growing lemongrass.
The farmers of the Mambugsay Community.
Our belief in Filipino products goes beyond business.
Amu’in embodies our belief of bayanihan and sariling atin, ensuring that by supporting local, we are able to help those who work hard to create a name in the local essential oil market.
We are more than happy to share this lemongrass story with you. With your help, you’d be able to be a part of their progress too. Maraming salamat po!