The National Palm Oil Congress in Davao City showcased a promising future for the Philippine palm oil industry, with Ares Merchants Philippines Inc. (AMPI) reporting significant local production improvements and predicting further growth. AMPI's Managing Director, Jose Leonardo Tanada, highlighted the strong EU demand for coconut oil, which opens opportunities for palm olein in the local market. The Department of Agriculture's Philippine Palm Oil Industry Roadmap 2024-2033 noted an increase in palm oil plantation areas, especially in Region XII and the Caraga Region. Tanada emphasized the need for government support during the gestation period of plantations and the importance of balancing domestic production with imports to avoid hoarding and inflation. Experts see substantial expansion potential, particularly in Mindanao, aiming to fully utilize existing milling capacity.