WV delegates actively engage with cacao innovation at the 2024 National Congress in Cebu City

Western Visayas delegates participated actively and showcased their expertise and innovation at the 2024 National Cacao Congress held at the Waterfront Hotel in Cebu City on July 30-31, 2024. 

Around 20 participants from the region, including cacao growers, processors, representatives from Local Government Units (LGUs), and other stakeholders, joined over 1,000 participants from various regions across the country at the event. Under the theme, ‘Marketing Philippine Cacao and Chocolates,’ they explored advancements in technology, global marketing strategies, and the production of high-quality fermented cacao beans.

The theme also highlights the goal for cacao farmers to produce quality fermented cacao beans, enabling the Philippines to compete in the export market. It also emphasizes the need for processors to create high-quality value-added products like chocolates.

The congress featured various plenary sessions covering a range of topics, including advancements in cacao farming techniques, market trends, and sustainable practices. Attendees had the opportunity to network and learn from experts in the field, gaining valuable insights to boost their local cacao industries.

In addition to the sessions, the event hosted a trade fair and exhibit showcasing a variety of cacao products and chocolates from different parts of the country. Region 6 proudly displayed its products, such as OGuia chocolate products and Cylvanias Chocolate Products by YFC 2024 National Finalist Israel Zaulda.

A highlight for Western Visayas was the Philippine Flavored Tablea Competition, where Region 6’s representative, Jose Roy Depon of DADs Farm Fresh and Fermented Food Products from Maayon, Capiz, earned third place for his innovative “Tuyo” Flavored Sikwate.

DA Undersecretary for High Value Crops Cheryl Marie Caballero delivered DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr.’s message. In his address, the Agriculture Chief emphasized the pivotal moment facing the cacao sector, focusing on the theme of elevating Philippine cacao both domestically and globally. He highlighted the congress as a crucial platform for dialogue, collaboration, and partnership to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of the industry.

With global demand for high-quality cacao on the rise, he pointed out that the Philippines is well-positioned to meet this demand due to its rich soil and favorable climate. The address also underscored the importance of leveraging these natural advantages through strategic marketing initiatives. In addition, he emphasized that transforming small-scale farming into a profitable enterprise requires fostering a culture of excellence.

Secretary Laurel’s message concluded with a call to action for renewed commitment and effective collaboration. He expressed optimism that by seizing the opportunities presented by the congress, the vision for a thriving, dynamic, and prosperous Philippine cacao industry could be realized, ensuring a bright future for all stakeholders involved.

The 2024 National Cacao Congress was organized by the Philippine Cacao Industry Association (PCIA) and the Philippine Cacao Industry Council (PCIC) chaired by Consul Armi Lopez-Garcia, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture High Value Crops Development Program (DA-HVCDP), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), Department of Tourism (DoT), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The event was also graced by Senator Pia Cayetano, Cebu City Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, DA Undersecretary for Operations Roger Navarro, ATI National Director Remelyn Recoter, DA-AMAS Director Junibert De Sagun, DA Special Assistant to the Secretary for Export Development Philip Young, and DTI Assistant Secretary Grace Baluyan.

Western Visayas’ participation not only highlighted the region’s growing cacao industry but also emphasized the dedication and talent of its local producers, promising a bright future for Philippine cacao on the global stage. # (Text and Photos by: MSSubang/DA-RAFIS 6)