Mary Jane Lamoste
Nationality: Philippines
Organization Name: Tagpi-Tagpi
Impact Region: Coastal Communities in the Philippines
About the Social Business: Tagpi-Tagpi is a social enterprise that empowers socially marginalized women in coastal areas of the Philippines by providing personal initiative training and promoting sustainable livelihoods through upcycling. By transforming old clothes, denim, and plastics into marine-themed plush toys, Tagpi-Tagpi addresses economic and gender inequalities while contributing to environmental sustainability. The initiative not only reduces waste pollution but also fosters economic independence for women, allowing them to overcome traditional barriers to employment. Since its inception, Tagpi-Tagpi has upcycled thousands of garments and plastics, creating new economic opportunities in the coastal coral triangle and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through responsible consumption and production practices.
About the Y&Y Fellow: Mary Jane Lamoste, born in Dauin, Negros Oriental, Philippines, grew up with a deep appreciation for nature, inspired by her family’s organic garden and early exposure to the ocean. After earning a degree in Marine Biology, she led significant conservation projects at LAMAVE (Large Marine Vertebrates Research Institute
Philippines) before transitioning to social entrepreneurship in 2019, through Tagpi-Tagpihe empowered marginalized women in coastal communities by upcycling materials into sustainable products, all while navigating the challenges of the pandemic. Her work has since gained international recognition, blending environmental sustainability with women’s empowerment across the Philippines.
Philippines) before transitioning to social entrepreneurship in 2019, through Tagpi-Tagpihe empowered marginalized women in coastal communities by upcycling materials into sustainable products, all while navigating the challenges of the pandemic. Her work has since gained international recognition, blending environmental sustainability with women’s empowerment across the Philippines.