KORONADAL CITY — Century Pacific Food, Inc. (CNPF) is deepening its footprint in Mindanao’s agro-industrial landscape with a P2.6-billion investment to expand its coconut processing operations in South Cotabato, further strengthening the island’s role in the country’s food manufacturing sector.

The publicly listed company, through its subsidiary Coco Harvest, Inc., has acquired Roxas Sigma Agriventures, Inc., operator of a modern two-hectare coconut processing plant in Tupi town. Established in 2017, the facility produces high-value coconut derivatives such as coconut cream, milk, virgin coconut oil, and coconut water concentrate for domestic and global markets.

CNPF said the investment — funded through internally generated cash flows — will be used to upgrade and expand the facility, adding new product lines and enhancing production efficiency. The company now operates three coconut processing hubs across Mindanao — in General Santos City, Misamis Occidental, and South Cotabato — solidifying the region as a strategic center for its growing global coconut business.

“This acquisition is a milestone for our coconut division and a testament to our commitment to inclusive growth,” said Noel Tempongko Jr., CNPF’s vice president and general manager for OEM Coconut Exports. “By expanding our capacity, we strengthen our competitiveness in the global coconut industry while creating meaningful economic opportunities for communities in Mindanao.”

The venture is expected to generate around 800 jobs and further drive local economic activity. South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. lauded the investment, saying it reinforces investor confidence and supports the province’s reputation as a prime agro-industrial hub in Mindanao.

CNPF, one of the country’s largest food manufacturers, is known for popular brands such as Century Tuna, 555 Sardines, Argentina Corned Beef, Blue Bay, Ligo, and coconut-based products Coco Mama and Vita Coco.