Aya Fernandez: Changing the Game with Eco-Uling
Have you ever heard of Eco-Uling by Project Lily PH? Or perhaps you’re familiar with a remarkable woman named Aya Fernandez?
Sometimes, despite being famous and living a life that is full of adventures, we will still go back to where our heart is. To where our passions ignite, and we will always trade our current life to where we truly feel alive. It’s a reminder that no matter how far we go or how much we achieve, the heart always knows where it belongs.
For Aya Fernandez, it wasn’t just a dream but a purpose—to create something meaningful that reflects her passions and contributes to the environment.
Eco-Uling by Project Lily PH is the result of her journey back to her roots, a venture born from a deep desire to make a difference in the world and spark a positive change. Through this, she found her true calling—one that blends purpose, passion, and sustainability in the most beautiful way.
Who is Aya Fernandez?
Aya Fernandez is a Filipino actress from ABS-CBN. Before venturing into acting, she gained recognition as the crowned Mutya ng Pilipinas 2018 and for her dancing skills. She also served as a MYX VJ in 2019. Aya began her acting career with roles in popular shows like FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin, and Nag-Aapoy na Damdamin. She later became the lead actress in the much-loved sapphic film Rookie. She is currently appearing in the TV series Saving Grace.
In an interview on BRGY, a segment on iWantTFC, Fernandez revealed that she isn’t just an actress, host, dancer, or beauty queen. Her hobbies and passions are deeply rooted in environmental advocacy and leading an active lifestyle. She is a professional diver, a Philippine Army reservist, and the CEO and founder of Project Lily PH.
What is Project Lily PH?
Launched in 2016, Project Lily PH is more than just an NGO; it is not merely an enterprise where volunteerism is the main drive. Project Lily PH is a movement that focuses on producing eco-friendly products and promoting inclusivity, as it is operated by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Fernandez recognizes the abilities and skills of her employees, who are trained and hired to produce charcoal briquettes made from water lilies and coconut husks. She’s hitting two birds with one stone, combining two different advocacies under one project: providing Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with job opportunities while making a positive environmental impact.
Eco-Uling by Project Lily PH
Since childhood, we’ve been taught that the coconut tree provides everything, with each part serving a purpose for survival. Now, Aya sees how the coconut shell can also make a positive impact, contributing to more sustainable environment.
The country produces 2.2 million tons of coconut shell waste every year, which could end up harming the environment if not properly managed. In addition to the dangers posed by coconut waste, the production of traditional charcoal also carries significant risks. It contributes to deforestation and increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Eco-Uling promotes benefits not only for the environment but also for the businesses that choose to collaborate with them. In addition to supporting environmental sustainability, this product offers several benefits: it lasts over 6 hours in enclosed grills, produces little to no smoke (benefiting employees by reducing inhalation), and generates twice the heat of traditional charcoal. Made from coconut husks, Eco-Uling also helps prevent flooding and landslides by reducing the need to cut down trees.
Several barangays have partnered with Eco-Uling, including Barangay Talipapa in Quezon City, along with numerous trusted restaurants. These include Chef Laudico Guevarra’s, The Peninsula, Seafood Island, James & Daughters, Forest Hills Golf and Country Club, Elaia by Cyma, Rob’s at Newport World Resorts, Souv by Cyma, Ugly Duck Tapas and Rooftop Lounge, Pablo Bistro, and Craft 1945.
But Fernandez’s advocacy doesn’t stop there. It’s not just hitting two advocacies through one project — it’s hitting three! In addition to supporting PWD employment and environmental sustainability, Eco-Uling also partners with the Tahanang Walang Hagdanan Foundation, supporting livelihood programs, education, and providing free training for over 250 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
It’s truly amazing how her passion has transformed into projects that uplift communities and help the environment.
Fernandez’ Ripple Effect
Despite being a famous actress, Fernandez has never forgotten her advocacies and continues to live by them. This was evident at the Star Magical Christmas 2024, where she wore an upcycled, zero-waste suit from RIOtaso Clothing. She also carried a bag crafted by artisans from Tondo under Likhaan PH during the Opulence Ball.
Fernandez showcases her love for the environment through upcycled clothes and her active participation in volunteer work, marathons, and seminars on business and sustainability.
It’s truly amazing how her burning passion for the environment transcends into her work. She is the perfect example of a woman who embodies captivating beauty, a fit body, and excellent posture, alongside a brilliant mind and a heart dedicated to changing the world and touching the lives of others.
Aya Fernandez is a true testament to how passion and purpose can drive meaningful change. With a heart devoted to both the environment and empowering others, she continues to break barriers and inspire those around her.
Through her work with Eco-Uling and dedication to sustainability and empowering Persons with Disabilities, Fernandez shows that true beauty lies in the positive impact one has on the world.
As she continues to make strides in both her career and advocacies, we can only look forward to the even greater difference she will make in the future.
