Metro Pacific Coconut Holdings Corp. (MPCH), a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), has finalized its acquisition of Franklin Baker Company of the Philippines, one of the country’s oldest and largest coconut processors.
The deal provides Franklin Baker with immediate capital to clear export backlogs, stabilize operations, and restore normal production. MPIC chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan said the acquisition strengthens the coconut supply chain and supports thousands of Filipino farmers.
MPCH plans to invest across the agricultural supply chain by integrating infrastructure, technology, capital, and market access. Its goal is to improve farmer incomes, promote sustainable practices, and support national food security.
With fresh funding, Franklin Baker is expected to streamline operations and return to a clear growth path. Jovy Hernandez, president and CEO of Metro Pacific Agro Ventures (MPAV), said bringing Franklin Baker into the group will help build a globally competitive coconut industry and boost sustainability initiatives.
Together with its earlier purchase of Axelum, MPIC now controls operations capable of processing more than two million coconuts a day—representing nearly 70 percent of the country’s food-grade coconut exports.
Jerry Lorenzo, president and CEO of outgoing investor Andorra Investments Corp., welcomed MPCH’s entry, saying it will strengthen both Franklin Baker and the wider coconut industry. Under MPCH, Franklin Baker is expected to enhance its market leadership and sustainability focus as it moves toward long-term growth.
