DAVAO CITY — The Davao Region strengthened its claim as the country’s coconut capital in 2025, producing 1.9 million metric tons or 13.7 percent of national output. Now, the Madayaw Coconut Philippines trade fair at SM Lanang Atrium puts that bounty on full display through August 3, 2026.
A Showcase of Innovation
Thirty‑one farmers’ organizations, cooperatives, and micro, small, and medium enterprises have filled the atrium with products that go far beyond traditional copra. Virgin coconut oil, coconut energy drinks, vinegar, and gourmet condiments sit alongside soaps, cosmetics, and eco‑friendly husk‑based home decor. The variety demonstrates how one versatile crop can spawn dozens of revenue streams.
The Department of Trade and Industry Region 11 organized the fair to connect local producers directly with consumers and institutional buyers. Assistant Regional Director Rachel S. Remitio noted that while Davao’s coconut products enjoy strong export demand, domestic appreciation still has room to grow. The fair closes that gap, giving shoppers a chance to taste, test, and purchase homegrown goods.
Roots in the Farm
Behind every bottle of oil and every bar of soap are the farmers who tend Davao’s sprawling coconut groves. The region hosts 11 of the country’s 13 preferred coconut varieties, making it a genetic treasure trove. Training programs under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan help these growers shift from low‑margin raw sales to higher‑value processing.
The Philippine Coconut Authority works alongside DTI to distribute seedlings, improve farm productivity, and teach post‑harvest techniques. The trade fair serves as a practical classroom, where farmers see firsthand what their harvests can become. A coconut that once sold for a few pesos as copra can emerge as a premium health product worth many times more.
Building a Year‑Round Coconut Economy
The Madayaw Coconut Philippines fair runs alongside a Coconut Cooperative Development Summit, reinforcing the industry’s push toward enterprise development. Cooperatives learn to pool resources, negotiate better prices, and access financing for processing equipment. The week‑long event is as much about business strategy as it is about sales.
A key feature of the fair is its emphasis on sustainability. Exhibitors showcase zero‑waste practices, converting husks into coco coir and shells into activated carbon. These by‑products, once discarded, now generate additional income while reducing environmental impact. The model offers a circular economy that benefits both community and planet.
Interactive Fun for Visitors
Shoppers are not just browsing; they are participating. The “Coco Kwento” social media contest invites visitors to share their fair experience online, with prizes for the most engaging posts. The buzz generated online extends the fair’s reach beyond the mall, drawing more people to explore Davao’s coconut culture.
The fair runs until August 3, giving families, tourists, and business owners ample time to discover the region’s coconut wealth. For Davao, the message is clear: the coconut is not just a crop; it is a cornerstone of a thriving, innovative, and sustainable economy.
