CEBU CITY — Coconut-based enterprises from Cebu and Bohol generated ₱2.38 million in cash and booked sales at the recent Coco Negosyo – Cebu Coconut Market Expo. The four-day event provided a vital platform for local producers to showcase their products and connect with new markets.
A Successful Showcase of Coconut Innovation
The expo, held from August 20 to 23, 2026, at the Ayala Center Cebu Activity Center, featured 28 micro, small and medium enterprises, cooperatives, and farmer organizations. Twenty exhibitors came from Cebu, while eight represented Bohol. The participants occupied 25 exhibition booths, offering a diverse range of value-added coconut products.
The products on display included food and beverages, personal care items, household goods, and other innovative offerings. The event highlighted the versatility of coconut as a raw material and the creativity of local entrepreneurs. It demonstrated the potential of the coconut industry to drive economic growth in Central Visayas.
Beyond Sales: Building Market Connections
Beyond the immediate sales figures, the expo generated significant business-to-business inquiries. These engagements could translate into future orders, partnerships, and long-term market linkages. The event also recorded ₱103,800 in potential transactions still under negotiation.
The opportunity to gather direct feedback from consumers and prospective buyers proved invaluable. Enterprises can use this feedback to refine their products and identify expansion opportunities. The expo served as a testing ground for market reception and product development.
Organized with Strong Partnerships
The expo was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry-Central Visayas through its Cebu Provincial Office. Partner agencies included the Philippine Coconut Authority-Central Visayas, Cooperative Development Authority, and the Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Training Institute.
The event formed part of the 40th National Coconut Week celebrations. It also aligned with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan, which seeks to strengthen the sector through enterprise development and market access. The collaboration ensured comprehensive support for participating enterprises.
Capability Building and Technology Sharing
A technology forum featured coconut processing technologies and industry innovations. Capability-building sessions covered costing, pricing, marketing, and the use of online platforms. These sessions equipped enterprises with practical skills to grow their businesses.
The Cooperative Development Authority conducted sessions on product costing and online marketing. These practical approaches to digital promotion help participants reach wider markets. The focus on capability building ensures that the benefits of the expo extend beyond the event itself.
Recognizing Excellence
The expo concluded with awards for outstanding participants. Dierde Export Trading won the Best Dressed Booth award. Audrey's Confectioneries and CG's Coconut Charcoal Trading were named top exhibitors in the food and non-food categories.
The recognition celebrates the quality and presentation of local products. It encourages enterprises to strive for excellence in all aspects of their business. These awards highlight the professionalism of Central Visayas coconut entrepreneurs.
