MANILA, Philippines – The homegrown world of skincare and beauty takes center stage as local brands show off their naturally-made products at the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) first five-day beauty fair at SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City!

The Bagong Pilipinas Beauty Fair is happening at the SM Megamall Fashion Hall from August 28 to September 1. 

“DTI has extended its mandate to implement these programs and initiatives that will drive economic growth and create more jobs and livelihood for the Filipinos,” said acting DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque during the opening ceremony on August 28, Wednesday, as part of their commitment to proactively promote the Philippines as a prime destination for more investors and foreign investments.

With over 40 exhibitors, Roque said the event serves as a movement — rather than a showcase — to empower our local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and provide them a platform to share their locally-made, native products. 

As you walk through the busy aisles of the fair, it’s easy to get lost in the variety of colorful displays of skincare, body care, hair care, and wellness solutions made from local ingredients.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting; you’ll love the scents of essential oils and organic soaps that blend harmoniously in the air. Here are a few of the brands that stood out to us at the fair!

Lime Tree Farm – Beetanicals

Established in 2018, Lime Tree Farm is a local enterprise with a variety of products from food, beverage, and even cosmetics. With local ingredients sourced from their bee farm, propolis-infused skincare solutions make up most of Beetanicals, along with coconut-based products.

Beetanicals co-owner Jerusalino Araos Jr. said propolis has many health benefits such as antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant, and hair growth. 

Ash Kitchen

Ash Kitchen focuses on skincare with all-natural ingredients devoid of harmful chemicals. One of the ingredients is coconut oil, which has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-oxidant, anti-stress, and antimicrobial properties.

Ash Kitchen owner Gina Dela Cruz designed the products according to her skin type since she has sensitive skin. Without synthetic additives, this skincare not only enhances your complexion but also promotes long-term skin health. 

Cocoplus Aquarian Dev. Corp

Virgin coconut oil is a versatile and natural remedy widely used in hair and skin care for its nourishing properties and antioxidant effects. Through the wet centrifuge method, Cocoplus produces around 5,000 to 8,000 liters of virgin coconut oil every month.

Ag Pacific Pharmaceutical Corp.

Ag Pacific produces a variety of products with virgin coconut oil such as baby oils, hair oils, massage oils, and soaps with activated carbon made of coconut shells, which “draws out the dirt and acts as an exfoliator of the skin.”

In an attempt to induce zero waste, it uses all waste material and tries to make something out of it. 

Ag Pacific is also a food manufacturer of other coconut-based products such as coconut vinegar and coconut chips, among others. 

Dermtropics

Dermtropics told Rappler they extract virgin coconut oil through the process of wet-milling. This allows them to preserve natural antioxidants and aroma, resulting in their purest form. 

Dermtropics believe the simplest and purest natural remedies deliver the best results. 

Pure Culture

Pure Culture started with three women who had food and skin sensitivities and allergies and decided to learn more about natural ingredients, which led them to a holistic approach to beauty and health. 

Through toxin-free vegan products, Pure Culture ensures your skincare routine is as kind to your skin as it is to the planet. Its main ingredient is green algae — a nutrient-rich powerhouse that helps hydrate, nourish, smoothen, and detoxify the skin. 

Diwatang Maria

Studying at the foot of the mountain was the main inspiration for Maria Concepcion Makalintal to form Diwatang Maria in 2018.

Diwatang Maria focuses on organic soaps. Makalintad said the base is mainly coconut oil and aloe vera, while others have papaya, oatmeal, cacao, and shea butter depending on the product variant.

According to Makalintal, these ingredients, especially coconut oil, are sourced from local farmers.

From tropical farms in the Philippines, these local ingredients are not merely adding value to beauty routines — they are revitalizing communities, preserving traditions, and fostering a deeper connection between consumers and the environment. – Rev Dela Cruz/Rappler.com

Rev Dela Cruz is a Rappler intern studying AB Journalism at the University of Santo Tomas.