Local coco processors get more markets thru CocoLink confab

COCOLIFE Cooperative, Inc. which is engaged in coconut processing business for years, is interested to learn more on how to grow further as well as address pressing concerns through the upcoming CocoLink 2017: 2nd Coconut Industry International Conference on November 7 to 9 at SMX Convention Center.

Cocolife Board Member Edwin Cenida said the use of proper farming technology and accessing to more markets for their processed coconut products are among the benefits which their coop consisting of 62 members would obtain from joining the annual coconut confab. The coop is maintaining a total of 280 hectares planted to coconut.

Cocolife is processing coconut byproducts such as among others, coco vinegar, virgin coconut oil, coco feeds and coco juice out of coco water.

He said Davao Region Coconut Industry Cluster, Inc. (DRCICI) the principal organizer of Cocolink international conference provided them assistance particularly in getting support from directly concerned government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture.

The coop however wants to boom further, thus, it requested from the Philippine Coconut Authority to provide them additional equipment on the arrangement that they will pay the equipment but without interest.

If this is realized, the current 6,000 liters monthly coco water production will grow to 20,000 liters per month which will further boost the growth of the coop’s coco business.

But Cocolife Cooperative still is facing some problems such as the need to get additional market for their coco products.

Cenida said this is why the cooperative will be attending the CocoLink Conference which invited experts to talk on marketing as well as the conduct of business matching face to face with international buyers.

To be held at the SMX Convention Center, the conference will also hold farmers to business discussions wherein the coconut growers will sit down with coconut industry investors and discuss trading partnerships.

According to DRCICI Executive Director Migdonio Clamor, Jr. DRCICI also invited experts from the private and government sector to talk on possible solutions to some challenges facing the industry such as high demand for coco by-products abroad yet less production of coconuts in the farmlands.