Tacloban: Some 30 farmer-entrepreneurs from six provinces of Eastern Visayas on Friday participated in the first-ever regional trade fair showcasing coconut-based products.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Eastern Visayas Regional Coconut Trade Fair, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regional office, is being held at Robinsons Place in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI). The event features micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that have received assistance under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan program.
"We are committed to helping our coconut farmers and processors to succeed in today's competitive environment. We aim to serve as a bridge from farm to shelves, from local communities to the global market," stated DTI Regional Director Celerina Bato during the event's opening. Bato highlighted the agency's ongoing efforts to assist coconut-based producers in enhancing their products, seeking new market opportunities, and sharing their stories on a global scale.
The trade fair features a variety of coconut-derived products, including coconut vinegar, coconut wine, virgin coconut oil, coconut coir, coconut shell handicrafts and accessories, coconut shell souvenirs, and coconut-based food items. "We encourage our exhibitors to explore new and innovative ways to present coconut-based products to the market," Bato added.
Bato also announced that seven coconut-based products from the region have been selected to participate in an international trade fair in Japan in September. Additionally, Axel Integrated Farming, a coconut-based product producer from Talalora town, has secured trade partners in Australia, the United States, and Europe following its participation in the 'Flavor Finds' segment of the International Food Exhibition held last May at the World Trade Center in Metro Manila.
The Eastern Visayas Regional Coconut Trade Fair will continue until August 10, with a sales target of PHP1.5 million.
