Cacao farmers in Butuan upskill in product development
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) – Cacao farmers from the De Oro Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative (DARBECO) in Butuan City recently sharpened their skills in cacao production and product development, thanks to a collaborative training initiative by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The training equipped DARBECO members with vital knowledge and improved skills in critical processes such as cacao fermentation, drying, and bean grading. These steps are essential for producing high-quality cacao and creating value-added products, making them more competitive and attractive to broader markets.
Evangeline A. Magtibay, chairperson of DARBECO, expressed profound gratitude for the government’s sustained support. “We at DARBECO are very grateful to DAR, DTI, and everyone who worked together for the success of our cacao farmers. This seminar is a big help to our cooperative because it has enhanced our knowledge and improved our products,” said Magtibay. “This is an opportunity for us that we need to work on so our cooperative will have a promising future.”
Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Glen A. Petilla encouraged the farmers to envision themselves as more than just crop growers. “You are not just farmers, you are innovators, entrepreneurs, and stewards of the land gifted by the Almighty. Your knowledge and determination are the keys to the progress of your families and communities.”
Genesis Jared A. Cutamara, a food technician from the Food Innovation Center of Caraga State University, emphasized that the training extends beyond mere production. It aims to provide farmers with the tools to innovate, add value, and create sustainable enterprises.
This activity underscores DAR’s commitment to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to support agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) through livelihood assistance, skills upgrading, and market linkage. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte with a report from DAR Agusan del Norte)
