P2.5 Million Sales Eyed from Coco Expo Trade Fair in Eastern Visayas

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is eyeing P2.5 million in sales from a four-day trade fair of coconut-based and other local products from different parts of Eastern Visayas.  The trade fair held on October 14-17 showcased 30 beneficiaries of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Program (CFIDP) and 26 other assisted micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the region.

The event, dubbed Bahandi Coconut Expo, was held at the Robinson Place Tacloban.  Bahandi is the local term for wealth.  Among the products presented at the fair were virgin coconut oil (VCO), VCO-based soaps, coir orchid hangers, pole ladders and logs, coco wine, coco vinegar, coco flour, desiccated coconut, and coconut-based native delicacies.

DTI Region 8 Director Celerina Bato said the event will promote the production of high-value coconut products in the region through the CFIDP which aims to increase overall productivity and income of coconut farmers by providing research, marketing and promotion of local coconut product. On the other hand, Philippine Coconut Authority Region 8 manager Joel Pilapil said supporting the development of more coconut-based products has encouraged more coconut farmers to venture into the production of other products.