The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture has successfully hosted the highly anticipated 3rd Cacao Festival at the Alvaro Rabina Hall – Auditorium on December 27-28, 2024, bringing together cacao farmers, cooperatives, entrepreneurs, and small-scale processors from across the region. This year’s festival not only celebrated the rich potential of cacao farming but also marked a significant milestone in the sector’s development, with a pivotal Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed between CBSUA, cacao farmers, cooperatives, associations, and small-scale processors.
The 3rd Cacao Festival focused on supporting cacao farmers, particularly smallholders, by tackling challenges like market price fluctuations, climate change, limited access to modern farming technologies, and poor market linkages. The event provided a platform for learning and collaboration to empower farmers and improve their livelihoods.
During the two-day event, participants had the opportunity to enhance their knowledge in key areas critical to the success of cacao farming. Technical sessions and interactive discussions focused on sustainable farming practices to increase productivity while safeguarding the environment, product innovation to elevate the value of cacao-derived products, and market development strategies to help connect farmers with broader and more profitable markets.
The signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between CBSUA and cacao farmers, cooperatives, associations, and small-scale processors was also highlighted during the festival. This agreement marks a collaborative effort to develop the cacao industry further by improving farming practices, increasing access to modern technologies, and enhancing market linkages. This collaboration is expected to pave the way for a stronger, more resilient cacao industry, benefitting not only the farmers but also the entire value chain.
The event also featured a cacao product exhibit, showcasing a wide range of products from chocolates to light fixtures, all derived from local cacao. The exhibit underscored the importance of product innovation in boosting the cacao industry’s value and opening up new market opportunities.
With the continued support of organizations like Bicol Cacao Council, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Training Institute, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, SEARCA, Camarines Sur Cacao Council, and the commitment from local farmers and entrepreneurs, the future of the cacao industry looks brighter, ensuring that cacao will remain a cornerstone of rural livelihoods and a driver of sustainable development in the region.
