Cocolife Multi-Purpose Cooperative (Cocolife MPC) is a registered agricultural cooperative based in Pantukan, Davao de Oro, Philippines, specializing in the sustainable processing and distribution of coconut-based products. As a community-led enterprise, Cocolife MPC serves as a socio-economic development catalyst by empowering coconut farmers through inclusive participation in the value chain. The cooperative plays a vital role in the region’s agri-based economy while promoting health-conscious, export-grade coconut derivatives.
Organizational Mandate and Structure
Cocolife MPC operates as a registered cooperative under the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and adheres to Philippine laws governing multi-purpose cooperatives. Its core functions include:
- Agricultural production and processing
- Marketing and distribution of coconut products
- Livelihood training and capacity-building for member-farmers
- Promotion of community-based enterprise models
The cooperative is composed of coconut farmers, community entrepreneurs, and agri-preneurs, forming an ecosystem that integrates social responsibility with commercial sustainability.
Product Portfolio
Cocolife MPC offers a selection of natural, non-GMO, and eco-friendly coconut products, including:
- Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) – Cold-pressed and chemical-free, for culinary and wellness uses
- Coconut Vinegar – Naturally fermented from coconut sap, with applications in cooking and health tonics
- Coconut Water – Packaged in various formats, ideal for hydration and beverage applications
- Additional coconut-derived products under research and market testing
Products are manufactured with traditional methods enhanced by small-scale mechanization, ensuring quality while preserving nutritional value.
Supply Chain and Processing Model
The cooperative engages in a farmer-to-market supply chain model:
- Sourcing: From member farms in Davao de Oro and neighboring municipalities
- Processing: Conducted in Pantukan-based facility, following food safety protocols
- Packaging and Branding: Products are cooperatively branded under Cocolife MPC, with plans to develop sub-brands for targeted markets
This model enables traceability, fair pricing, and farmer equity, while fostering local value addition.
Market Access and Distribution
Cocolife MPC currently distributes through:
- Local trade fairs and organic markets
- Partnerships with institutional buyers and regional distributors
- Participation in government-sponsored expos such as IFEX Philippines and OTOP initiatives
The cooperative is preparing for export-readiness by complying with food safety standards and seeking partnerships for market linkage in the Asia-Pacific region.
Social Impact and Membership Benefits
As a community cooperative, Cocolife MPC provides:
- Dividend sharing and patronage refunds to members
- Access to technical training, organic farming seminars, and processing certifications
- Microfinancing and livelihood support, especially for women and indigenous producers
- Skills development programs for youth and rural workers
The cooperative directly impacts over 100 smallholder coconut farmers, promoting sustainable livelihoods and economic resilience.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
Cocolife MPC champions environmental and ethical practices including:
- Zero-waste coconut utilization strategies
- Use of biodegradable packaging
- Promotion of organic and chemical-free cultivation
- Alignment with fair trade principles
These initiatives ensure minimal ecological footprint and align with buyer expectations in the wellness and natural food sectors.
Governance and Partnerships
While governed by an elected Board of Directors, Cocolife MPC collaborates with:
- CDA Region XI
- DTI-Davao de Oro
- Local LGUs and agrarian reform agencies
- NGOs supporting sustainable agriculture
The cooperative has been recognized for its role in regional MSME development and rural enterprise innovation.
Outlook and Strategic Goals
Moving forward, Cocolife MPC seeks to:
- Obtain FDA and organic certifications
- Upgrade facilities to meet export processing zone standards
- Develop a cooperative-owned retail hub
- Launch new SKUs including coco flour and coco sugar blends
- Establish long-term B2B partnerships for international coconut buyers
With a strong foundation in cooperative governance, community empowerment, and sustainable product innovation, Cocolife Multi-Purpose Cooperative exemplifies a scalable model for inclusive agribusiness in the Philippine coconut industry.