DTI Region 12 Regional Director Flora Gabunales and Coco Island representatives at the groundbreaking ceremony, holding shovels with a backdrop of coconuts, grass, and a scenic sky.
DTI Region 12 Regional Director Flora Gabunales joins Coco Island representatives in the groundbreaking ceremony for the first coconut processing facility, marking a major step for Region 12’s coconut industry.

General Santos City, Philippines—Coco Island, a rising local enterprise specializing in high-quality coconut-based products, marked a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for its first processing facility on February 10. This initiative is set to enhance production, promote sustainability, drive regional economic growth, and ultimately boost the coconut industry in Region 12.

From its beginnings as a small-scale coconut processing business, Coco Island has aspired to bring the region’s coconut products to a wider market. With the support of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 12, the enterprise was able to expand through various programs and services, including business mentoring, product development assistance, and market exposure opportunities. Notably, the DTI facilitated Coco Island’s participation in trade fairs like the “Treasures of Region 12,” exhibit in Metro Manila, which garnered national recognition and attracted new buyers.

The new facility will streamline Coco Island’s processing operations, ensuring high-quality coconut-based products while adopting eco-friendly practices. Furthermore, it will create numerous local jobs and offer greater opportunities for MSMEs, coconut farmers and entrepreneurs. This will be achieved by improving access to raw materials and strengthening market linkages.

DTI Region 12 Regional Director Flora Gabunales delivering a speech to an audience during the Coco Island groundbreaking ceremony.
DTI Region 12 Regional Director Flora Gabunales delivers a speech at the Coco Island groundbreaking ceremony, emphasizing the agency’s support for the growth of Region 12’s coconut industry.

“The real treasure of Region 12 is its people. We are with the men and women behind Coco Island in advocating and promoting its production and the entire local coconut industry. It is one of the products that the region can be proud of,” said DTI Region 12 Regional Director Flora Gabunales.

The DTI remains committed to promoting the region’s coconut industry through marketing assistance, capability-building programs, and investment facilitation, ensuring that MSMEs thrive in a competitive market.

With the establishment of this facility, Coco Island is poised to become a cornerstone of Region 12’s coconut sector, fostering economic resilience, and positioning the region as a leading hub for coconut-based products.

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Date of Release: 17 February 2025

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