AGUSAN DEL NORTE — Three homegrown enterprises from Agusan del Norte are bringing the province’s entrepreneurial talent to the Coconut Philippines Trade Fair 2026, held from August 26 to 30 at the SMX Convention Center Manila. Deseo Food Products is featuring its handcrafted chocolates, while ARDA Integrated Farm is showcasing its premium tableya and chili sauce made with coconut oil. Meanwhile, BG’s Coconut Charcoal is highlighting its quality coconut charcoal briquettes. Their participation, supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Caraga and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Caraga through the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), highlights the innovation, creativity, and business potential of Agusanon micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Opening Doors to Bigger Markets
For the participating MSMEs, the national trade fair provides an opportunity to introduce their products to a wider audience and explore new business possibilities. Beyond showcasing their brands, the enterprises can connect with potential buyers, secure orders, and develop partnerships with institutional clients. The event’s Business Connect sessions further support these efforts by facilitating direct business-matching between local “cocopreneurs” and prospective buyers. Such opportunities can help Agusanon enterprises move beyond regional markets, expand their customer base, and gain greater exposure in the national business landscape.
Adding Value to Agusan del Norte’s Coconut Industry
The trade fair also provides participants with opportunities to enhance their business knowledge through talks and demonstrations covering entrepreneurship, product development, and current market trends. These learning activities can help entrepreneurs improve their products, strengthen their business strategies, and respond more effectively to changing consumer demands. For Agusan del Norte, where coconut farming remains an important source of livelihood, promoting value-added coconut products can create greater economic opportunities throughout the industry. The participation of the three MSMEs not only puts their individual brands in the spotlight but also showcases the province’s potential for coconut-based innovation. Through initiatives supported by the CFIDP, local entrepreneurs and coconut farmers are given opportunities to develop higher-value products, strengthen livelihoods, and contribute to the continued growth of the province’s coconut industry.
