BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
NESTLED in the lush expanse of Millan, Sibunag, Guimaras, UMA by Kokomojo Farm officially opened its doors on December 8, offering visitors a unique blend of nature, culture, and gastronomy. This new destination promises to elevate Guimaras’ reputation as the Mango Capital of the Philippines by creating an immersive farm-to-table experience.
In an interview, Leslie Blair, the visionary owner of UMA by Kokomojo Farm, shared the heartfelt journey behind the project.
“We bought the land in 1992, and back then, it was completely undeveloped,” Leslie reminisced. He credits his wife, Grace, for the farm’s evolution. Despite living abroad for over three decades, Grace held fast to her Filipino roots.
“She never wanted to immigrate or get a foreign passport. She always went back to the Philippines, proud of her heritage,” Leslie shared.
When Grace decided to retire, the couple committed to turning their long-dormant property into a thriving venture.
From exporting mangoes to Manila to exploring value-added products like dried mangoes, the couple poured their efforts into establishing a sustainable and hands-on approach to farming. Their vision, however, extended far beyond agriculture.
“We wanted a place where people could experience a mango farm — a world-class destination showcasing Guimaras’ finest. Whether you’re a balikbayan, a foreign tourist, or a local visitor, we want you to find something special here,” Leslie explained.
UMA by Kokomojo Farm is not just about mango orchards. It’s a cultural and culinary haven. Guests can savor Ilonggo delicacies at the UMA Restaurant, with a special twist: four days each month, they serve Vietnamese cuisine, reflecting the Blairs’ culinary ventures in Iloilo City.
“We also want to involve the community,” Leslie emphasized. “Our community market will feature local produce and goods from barangays and LGUs. This collaboration ensures that everyone benefits from the farm’s success.”
Leslie proudly highlighted what sets Kokomojo Farm apart. “We have the biggest mango farm here, and we’re hands-on. Many farms are owned by absentee landlords, but we’re here every step of the way. We want to create a top-class experience for tourists.”
Visitors can look forward to mango-picking adventures, indulging in mango-flavored dishes, and enjoying the serene beauty of the farm. With plans to introduce more activities in the future, UMA by Kokomojo Farm is poised to become a cornerstone of Guimaras tourism.
UMA by Kokomojo Farm represents more than a business — it’s a tribute to Filipino pride, agricultural sustainability, and the spirit of community. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of Guimaras mangoes, the promise of delicious food, or the chance to connect with nature, this destination is a must-visit.
Experience the mango magic of UMA by Kokomojo Farm, where heritage meets innovation in the heart of Guimaras./PN
