Iloilo-made Banwa Pens bring Filipino craftsmanship to the 48th ASEAN Summit

Iloilo City- What started as a small passion project in Iloilo City eventually found its way to one of the region’s biggest diplomatic gatherings.

Banwa Pens, founded by Iloilo artisan Arnel John “Nonoy” Vallejo, crafted the official ballpoint pens used by ASEAN Leaders during the 48th ASEAN Summit, bringing Filipino craftsmanship to the regional stage through pieces carefully made by hand.

Vallejo first started Banwa Pens as a small business while still working a regular job. What began as a creative hobby slowly grew into something bigger as more people began appreciating the craftsmanship behind his handmade pens.

His breakthrough came after joining LIKHA, the flagship initiative of the Office of First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos that champions Filipino artisans and provides a platform for local craftsmanship, heritage, and design. Through LIKHA, Banwa Pens gained wider visibility, eventually catching the attention of the ASEAN National Organizing Council.

The opportunity became a turning point for Vallejo. Encouraged by the growing support for his work, he eventually left his job to pursue craftsmanship full-time.

Each Banwa Pen used during the Summit was handcrafted using carabao horn for the body and madre de cacao wood for the cap, transforming indigenous materials into elegant and functional pieces that reflected Filipino artistry and identity.

“I wanted to create something that not only represents me but represents the Filipino,” Vallejo shared.

He added that the pens also carried a message aligned with the spirit of ASEAN cooperation.

“I want my pens to write a story that when everyone unites and have that shared goal, everyone will be benefited. I think that’s what ASEAN is all about,” he said.

From a small workshop in Iloilo to the hands of ASEAN Leaders, Banwa Pens became more than just writing instruments during the Summit. They became symbols of how Filipino creativity, when given the right platform and support, can proudly stand on the international stage.

As the Philippines welcomed ASEAN Leaders under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the handcrafted pens served as a reminder that the country’s greatest stories are often found in the skill, dedication, and quiet excellence of its people.