The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Guimaras held a refresher course on cacao nursery, production, harvest, and post-harvest practices on Nov. 11 at Paquito Farm in San Antonio, Nueva Valencia.
The program gathered cacao farmers, producers, and processors from across the province to improve their knowledge and skills in cacao farming.
“This collaboration between DTI and DA is crucial for strengthening our local cacao industry,” said Juvy Benliro, officer-in-charge of DTI Guimaras.
The training, supported by the Department of Agriculture (DA), focused on nursery management, production techniques, and post-harvest operations to enhance the quality of local cacao.
Relvin Paragua, a cacao expert from the Department of Agriculture and a leading figure in Western Visayas’ cacao sector, led the sessions.
Paragua provided hands-on demonstrations and shared best practices in cacao farming, from planting and nursery management to post-harvest handling.
The event highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships between DTI and DA in positioning the Philippines as a premier source of quality cacao in the global market.
Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to supporting cacao farmers through the entire production cycle, including nursery operations, harvesting, and chocolate processing.
“Now that you know how big the demand for cacao is, we have to plant more cacao,” said Rejoice Orquia, DTI Guimaras Cacao Focal.
She urged farmers to prioritize quality at every stage of production, from the nursery to post-harvest processing, and encouraged participants to share their knowledge with others.
The initiative aligns with national efforts to enhance the competitiveness of the Philippine cacao industry and expand its share in the global market.
Guimaras, known for its fertile land, has been identified as a key region for cacao production due to its potential to produce high-quality beans.
The DTI-DA partnership continues to empower farmers, strengthen the local cacao value chain, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
