From the Forest to Your Hands: The Story Behind Your Citronella

This initiative is part of the MTC Community Project x JRS, a five-year partnership dedicated to supporting refugees and marginalised communities through sustainable, dignity-building livelihood programmes. By combining Make The Change’s community development efforts with Jesuit Refugee Service’s long-standing work in humanitarian support, this collaboration focuses on empowering individuals with skills, income opportunities, and platforms to rebuild their lives with confidence and independence.

When you bring home one of our citronella products, you’re not just choosing a natural remedy, you’re holding a story shaped by resilience, community, and hope. Each bottle and balm represents the work and dedication of the Pulangiyēn women of Sitio Bendum, who are building new pathways for sustainable livelihood.

Rooted in the Red Clay of Bendum

Citronella plants flourish in the rich red clay of this remote village, tucked deep in the highlands. What begins as a simple grass becomes, through careful hands and patient harvesting, a powerful symbol of opportunity. Every leaf is cut, gathered, and processed by indigenous women — mothers, farmers, and caretakers of their land.

This project became possible through the partnership and training support of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Local Government of Malaybalay. With their guidance, 18 Pulangiyēn women learned the technical skills of distilling citronella oil and crafting soothing balms. They blended the wisdom of the forest they grew up in with new knowledge, opening doors to income opportunities previously out of reach.

Pride in Every Product

One of these women is Aijen Linantad, the head of production. Her confidence and leadership have grown alongside the project. She recently showcased their citronella products at the Malaybalay City Livelihood Summit, representing her community with pride. For Aijen and her team, it’s proof of what can happen when women are equipped with skills and trust.

More Than a Purchase

Each item you buy contributes directly to sustaining this livelihood initiative. Beyond offering natural relief, your support helps strengthen the economic independence of these women, ensuring they can provide for their families while preserving the integrity of their ancestral land.

This is no longer just a plant. It is a livelihood rooted in the hills the women of Bendum walk every day. A livelihood growing stronger with every harvest, every batch of oil, and every person who chooses to support their work.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re helping the Pulangiyēn women build a future grounded in dignity, skill, and community.