Cacao Congress convenes key stakeholders in CL

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO--More than a thousand key and prospective players, shareholders and stakeholders of the cacao industry across the region convened Monday for the first Region III Cacao Congress.

"Kakao Konek Congress" aims to gather those who are already involved, as well as those who are interested in the industry to reinforce linkages, share updates on technologies, trading and marketing; and discuss the industry's prospects in Central Luzon, giving emphasis on the increasing global demand and how we can help supply gaps, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Integration, credit financing, and climate change.

In his message, Department of Agriculture Regional Executive Director Andrew Villacorta expressed optimism for the huge potential that the cacao industry promises for the region.

"We are very happy with the very high turn-out of participants in this event because this shows their interest in venturing into this globally in-demand industry. At present, the world market demand for cacao is about one million metric tons. Just imagine if we convert this to kilos and its corresponding income for our farmers," Villacorta said.

As of now, only 400 hectares of land in the region is being planted with cacao.

However, he said that they are eyeing to cover more lands and boost productivity through the support of the local government units and private sector.

"In Pampanga alone, Governor [Lilia] Pineda has committed about 30,000 hectares for cacao plantation. Also, in the province of Aurora, 24,000 hectares is planted with coconut and we can intercrop this with cacao," Villacorta disclosed.

He also cited the strengthened partnership between the government and the private sector in order to boost cacao industry in the region.

"We are lucky that we have the active participation of the private sector through the Kapampangan Development Foundation which spearheads this congress. We also now inducted the Regional Cacao Council which will formulate policies and integrate these into our cacao roadmap," he furthered.

For his part, Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Pinol said cacao is a hot commodity right now, but warned farmers and stakeholders to play it wisely.

"You produce a lot but not too much to the point that you will saturate the market," he said.

Pinol that the challenge for them is how to increase productivity and lower the cost so that they can compete with the ASEAN Integration. (CLJD/MJLS-PIA 3)