Iloilo cacao farmers boost quality through DTI training

ILOILO CITY — Cacao farmers from San Joaquin and Barotac Viejo in Iloilo province strengthened their production skills during a Department of Trade and Industry training held July 28–29, 2026.

The DTI Iloilo Provincial Office conducted the two-batch cacao production training through its Cacao Industry Cluster Enhancement Program.

The activity, organized with the Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas High Value Crops Development Program and the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, provided newly assisted farmers with practical techniques to improve farm operations and postharvest practices.

Recognizing that quality cacao begins at the farm, the training strengthened participants’ understanding of good agricultural practices and integrated pest, disease, and nutrient management.

The sessions also covered proper fermentation and postharvest processing to help farmers produce high-quality cacao beans that meet industry standards and have stronger market potential.

Participants applied the lessons through hands-on cacao grafting and bean cut tests, gaining firsthand experience in improving plant productivity and evaluating bean quality.

Relvin B. Paragua, the Department of Agriculture’s cacao focal person, led the technical sessions with Carlo A. Biton and Jannsen Compliza, who shared their expertise and guided participants throughout the training.

The initiative supports broader government efforts under the draft Philippine Cacao Roadmap 2026–2030 to strengthen rural livelihoods, raise farmers’ incomes, and improve the industry’s export competitiveness.

Through the Cacao Industry Cluster Enhancement Program, DTI Iloilo continues to work with government partners and industry stakeholders to strengthen the local cacao sector.

The program aims to equip farmers with knowledge, skills, and technologies that can improve productivity and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.