The 'tree of life' takes the spotlight

Upon the invitation of Sec. Cris Roque of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), I had the pleasure of attending the opening of the "Coconut Philippines Trade Fair" last Friday, Aug. 29, at SM Megamall's Megatrade Hall.

- WITH PAT-P

The event is part of the annual "National Coconut Week," celebrated every year from Aug. 24 to 30. The fair itself runs until tomorrow, Sept. 2.

The venue was lively and full of energy, with visitors, merchants and shoppers crowding the large venue. I later found out that while last year's fair hosted around 100 participating merchants, this year that number has doubled to about 200 from 17 regions.

A wide array of products was on display, from skincare and food items to home décor, kitchenware, fashion accessories, clothing, jewelry, wellness products, and cooking oil.

As I walked in, I was immediately drawn to the beautiful Original Pilipino Music (OPM) playing in the background. To my surprise, it was being performed live by the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra.

The program began, and I was delighted to see that my niece, Isabelle Daza, was hosting the event.

One of the speakers was Dr. Dexter Buted, administrator of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA). He described the coconut as "the tree of life," but noted that within the PCA, it's more often referred to as the "crop of opportunities." He emphasized the many uses of the coconut — as food, medicine, wellness aid and even a source of energy.