ALEGRIA, SURIGAO DEL NORTE — Tucked in the quiet municipality of Alegria in Surigao del Norte, a local enterprise is quietly redefining self-care with a product that captures the essence of the Philippines' natural bounty. Elijah's Miracle Extra Premium Virgin Coconut Oil with Citronella, crafted by 5 Star Health and Beauty Products Manufacturing, has earned a spot in the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) weekly #FridayFinds feature, putting the spotlight on homegrown products worth discovering.
The Power of Two Natural Ingredients
At the heart of Elijah's Miracle is a simple yet powerful combination: virgin coconut oil (VCO) and citronella. VCO, extracted from fresh mature coconut meat, is renowned for its skin-healing, moisturizing, and antimicrobial properties, thanks to its high lauric acid content. Citronella, on the other hand, is a natural essential oil known for its ability to repel insects, making it a popular ingredient in aromatherapy and natural personal care products. Research has shown that supplementing VCO with citronella oil can create an effective, skin-friendly repellent, with one study noting that a 10% citronella concentration in VCO achieved a 97.55% repellent effect against mosquitoes. This synergy allows Elijah's Miracle to offer both deep skin nourishment and natural protection in one product.
A Local Enterprise with a Global Vision
5 Star Health and Beauty Products Manufacturing is one of 15 coconut entrepreneurs in Surigao del Norte that have received support from DTI through the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP). The assistance, which included product enhancement kits to improve packaging and labeling, aims to strengthen the competitiveness of coconut-based enterprises and help them reach wider markets. By participating in DTI's #FridayFinds, Elijah's Miracle joins a growing roster of Caraga-made products gaining recognition for their quality and authenticity. The initiative reflects the broader push to promote local MSMEs and showcase the region's capacity to produce world-class natural wellness products.
Why This Matters for Caraga's Local Economy
The success of enterprises like 5 Star Health and Beauty Products Manufacturing highlights the potential of Caraga's coconut industry, which remains a vital source of livelihood for thousands of farming families across the region. By transforming raw coconuts into value-added products like Elijah's Miracle, local entrepreneurs create jobs, generate income, and reinforce the region's identity as a producer of premium natural goods. For consumers seeking an authentic, locally made self-care product, Elijah's Miracle offers a guilt-free way to elevate their wellness routine while supporting the community that produces it.
