A Thai-backed coconut processing company will open a P1 billion manufacturing facility here by July 2026 to boost the presence of the Philippines in the global export market.
The facility, which will generate over 1,500 jobs, reflects resilient international interest in the local economy. Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the project signals sustained foreign investor confidence in the Philippines despite global economic uncertainties.
“It’s a big investment,” Roque said, adding that the plant will require around 500,000 coconuts daily for export production.
Philco Food Processing Inc., a subsidiary of Thailand-based Thai World Group, will operate the facility. The plant will produce ultra-high temperature coconut milk primarily for international markets.
Roque said she finalized discussions regarding the regional expansion during a recent visit to Bangkok.
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority registered the project, which the Department of Trade and Industry classified as a high-capacity coconut processing hub.
Thai World Group chose to expand sourcing and processing operations to the Philippines, one of the largest coconut producers in the world, due to climate-driven coconut shortages in Thailand.
Philco Food Processing officials said the facility aims to produce high-quality and ethically sourced coconut milk while supporting local farmers, creating jobs and promoting sustainable operations.
The Department of Trade and Industry expects the project to improve rural livelihoods, strengthen agricultural supply chains and expand national export capacity for coconut-based products.
Philco Food Processing aims to become one of the most trusted coconut milk exporters globally by maintaining strict quality standards and sustainable sourcing practices.
