THE DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) XI put Davao’s coconut industry in the spotlight through the Madayaw Coconut Philippines: A Davao Region Trade Fair, held from July 28 to Aug. 3, 2026, at the SM Lanang Atrium in Davao City.
The week-long trade fair brought together 30 coconut farmers’ organizations, cooperatives, and Davao Region MSMEs, showcasing the diversity of products that can be developed from coconut, from food and beverages to wellness and personal care products, agricultural inputs, industrial materials, handicrafts, and home décor.
Carrying the “Madayaw” brand, DTI 11’s banner for regional trade fairs, the activity highlighted products rooted in Davao’s local resources and culture while giving local enterprises a platform to reach consumers and explore wider markets.
In his welcome message during the opening ceremony, DTI XI regional director Romeo L. Castañaga emphasized the value of bringing key players in the coconut industry together.
“By bringing together farmers, cooperatives, MSMEs, government agencies, and market players in one venue, we create a platform that goes beyond product promotion. It fosters collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and market linkages that are essential to the long-term growth of the coconut industry,” Castañaga said.
Beyond product display, the activity gave exhibitors opportunities to engage consumers, gather market insights, test products, and explore business linkages with potential buyers and partners.
These efforts generated ₱47.6 million in combined sales from direct trade fair transactions and business matching activities. The results highlight the trade fair’s role in creating actual market opportunities for coconut farmers, cooperatives, and Davao Region MSMEs.
The trade fair also served as a major side event of the Davao Region Coconut Farmers’ Cooperative Summit, led by the Cooperative Development Authority in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).
DTI 11 continues to support coconut farmers, local enterprises, and Davao Region MSMEs, while encouraging consumers to choose and support products made in the region.
The trade fair was organized by DTI XI through the CFIDP, in partnership with the CDA, PCA, and SM Lanang Premier.
