DAVAO CITY – The Madayaw Coconut Philippines: A Davao Region Trade Fair kicked off at SM Lanang Atrium on July 28, 2026, and will run through August 3. The Department of Trade and Industry Region 11 (DTI XI) organized the week‑long event to spotlight the diversity and potential of the local coconut industry.
A Week of Coconut Innovation
The fair features an extensive range of products, from virgin coconut oil and coconut vinegar to energy drinks and gourmet condiments. Food items share space with non‑food offerings such as cosmetics, skincare, home decor, and fashion accessories crafted from coconut husk and shell. The variety on display shows how a single raw material can be transformed into high‑value goods.
Beyond the finished goods, visitors can meet the farmers and entrepreneurs behind each product. The event highlights the creativity and resourcefulness of Davao’s coconut communities. Every booth tells a story of turning a humble crop into a livelihood.
From Farm to Market
DTI XI Assistant Regional Director Rachel S. Remitio said the fair aims to boost local consumption of coconut products. While exports remain strong, the domestic market has untapped potential for these quality goods. The event bridges the gap between producers and local buyers, creating a direct feedback loop that helps improve products and branding.
All featured products have undergone strict regulatory screening to ensure safety and market readiness. This commitment to quality gives consumers confidence while raising the standard for local enterprises. The fair also provides a risk‑free environment for small businesses to test new concepts.
Empowering Farmers and Cooperatives
A total of 31 farmers’ organizations and cooperatives from across the Davao Region are participating. For many, the fair represents a critical step away from selling raw copra and toward capturing more value through processing. The income uplift from processed goods can transform household economies.
The initiative operates under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan, a multi‑agency framework involving the Philippine Coconut Authority, the Agricultural Training Institute, and DTI. A concurrent Coconut Cooperative Development Summit on July 28‑29 further strengthens the sector through training and networking.
A Zero‑Waste Showcase
Exhibitors demonstrate sustainable practices by converting husks, shells, and sap into usable products. The zero‑waste approach minimizes environmental impact while maximizing economic returns. Visitors can see firsthand how coconut by‑products become household essentials.
This circular model aligns with global sustainability trends and positions Davao’s coconut industry as forward‑thinking. It also educates consumers about the full potential of a crop often underestimated. The fair turns a simple fruit into a lesson in responsible production.
A Hub of Learning and Connection
The fair serves as a networking platform for farmers, entrepreneurs, and institutional buyers. DTI’s goal is to help micro‑enterprises scale into small and medium businesses through exposure and mentorship. Each interaction at the booth can lead to a long‑term partnership.
The event runs through August 3, inviting the public to discover the versatility of the coconut. From food to fashion, the Madayaw Coconut Philippines trade fair proves that Davao’s coconut industry is ready for the global stage while staying rooted in local pride.
