Think You Know Coconut? Discover 5 Ideas That May Surprise You


A coconut may be familiar, but what Filipino entrepreneurs are doing with it is anything but. Mounted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in partnership with the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Coconut Authority (DA-PCA) and supported by the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), the DTI-Bagong Pilipinas COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair 2026 brought together around 300 coconut MSMEs nationwide at the SMX Convention Center Manila.


Through SM Supermalls' SM for MSMEs program, homegrown coco-preneurs received a high-visibility marketplace to showcase their creative ideas and zero-waste innovations. Here are five discoveries that showcase the versatile future of the Philippines' "tree of life":

1. One coconut, endless possibilities


Elmer Marbello of Marbello’s Processed Foods Manufacturing has developed around 40 products utilizing every part of the crop, including coconut liniment and coconut bagoong made from remnants. Meanwhile, Adrian Ramilo of Ayanas is pushing boundaries with handcrafted coconut wine that drives job creation in local farming communities.

2. A Gen Z school project turned real business

Started as a college feasibility study to address lactose intolerance, Dehusk created locally produced drinkable coconut milk designed specifically as a beverage alternative rather than for cooking. Today, the company operates as a proudly Gen Z-run enterprise.

3. Transforming waste into community livelihoods


Virna Morales of Venice Rose Integrated Farms and Johnalyn Lamprea of Lampre’s Integrated Farm turn surplus coconut shells into handcrafted bags, piggy banks (alkansya), and utility items. This zero-waste initiative currently supports the livelihoods of over 100 workers.

4. Turning skills into scalable enterprises


After mastering craft manufacturing through DTI’s Kapatid Mentor ME Program, Juvy Crusina of Crusina’s Handicrafts in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte transitioned into a sole proprietor. Showcasing at SM trade venues helped scale her orders and expand her brand's market reach nationwide.

5. Expanding impact through public-private partnerships


Behind individual success stories is a broader commitment to building sustainable businesses. Supported by DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, and SM Supermalls EVP for Marketing Joaquin L. San Agustin, public-private collaboration ensures local MSMEs receive market access to grow into lasting commercial brands.

Important Question


Where and when was the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair 2026 held?

Answer

The trade fair ran until August 30, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

SM Prime’s Hans Sy champions private sector leadership in disaster resilience at UNDRR Global Platform 2025

Image
  Hans Sy speaking in the 8th Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GP2025), organized by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction and co-chaired by the Government of Switzerland. SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) Executive Committee Chairman Hans Sy reaffirmed the vital role of the private sector in disaster risk reduction (DRR) during the 2025 Global Platform of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), held in Geneva, Switzerland.  Representing the Philippine private sector at the Ministerial Roundtable on “Accelerating Financing and Resilience,” Sy underscored how businesses can help drive scalable, science-based resilience solutions. Private sector as a force multiplier in DRR “Resilience strengthens businesses while safeguarding lives and communities,” Sy stated. “We know the government cannot do it alone. The private sector is ready to do more.” Sy underscores the need for policies, incentives, and institutional support to sc...
Read more

SM Supermalls elevates urban air quality

Image
There’s nothing quite like strolling through a mall with breathtaking views , expansive arcades, and lush greenery. At SM Supermalls, shopping isn’t just about transactions—it’s about enjoying spaces designed for comfort, sustainability, and a healthier environment. More than ever, SM’s commitment to green infrastructure is shaping urban air quality while creating a more livable city for everyone. Designing for people and the planet SM Supermalls prioritizes people-centric design , creating welcoming spaces that balance nature with modern convenience. The SM Mall of Asia’s arcades and the MOA Sky , for example, offer open, breezy walkways, encouraging leisurely strolls and even outdoor dining and entertainment. Meanwhile, SM Aura and SM North EDSA’s Sky Garden—the first in an SM mall—integrates lush vegetation and water features to reduce indoor heat, improve air quality, and create cooling effects in dense urban areas. SM North EDSA houses the first Sky Garden in an SM mall, highli...
Read more

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Must-See Firsts in Metro Manila

Image
    Let your thirst for trying out new things lead you this month of June. Be fun, be free, and let spontaneity take the wheel with these new and upcoming gems heading your way. From immersive experiences to robust cuisines from around the globe, to standout fashion pieces—you have the power to make the mundane magical when you choose to see every day as a canvas of possibilities. Wander to wonder, and embrace the magic of curiosity and exploration with SM Supermalls—right here in Metro Manila. Variety & Great Options at SM Mall of Asia With more options, you uncover more paths, opening doors to fresh experiences and delightful discoveries—whether it be trying out different meals at once or spicing up your everyday style! Enjoy the diverse flavors of Japan at Kiwami: Japanese Master Kitchens , opening their first-ever SM flagship store soon—their biggest one yet! Offering a variety of authentic dishes all under one roof, indulge in an extensive dining experience and savor ...
Read more