By Nimfa Estrellado Quezon Governor "Doktora Helen" Tan along with other local officials at the Cacao Summit on February 19, 2024 ...
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| Quezon Governor "Doktora Helen" Tan along with other local officials at the Cacao Summit on February 19, 2024 at the Old Capitol Building, Lucena City, showcasing the province's dedication to promoting sustainable agriculture and economic growth. (Photo from Provincial Government of Quezon ) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Quezon province is rapidly emerging as a key player in the Philippine cacao industry, creating significant opportunities for local farmers. The first-ever Quezon Cacao Summit 2024, launched on February 19th, spotlights this potential and aims to accelerate the sector's development.
Led by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist under Dr. Lisa Mariano, the summit focuses on supporting farmers and driving innovation in cacao production. "Quezon is already an agricultural powerhouse," noted Assistant Agriculturist Alexander Garcia, "and cacao is expanding our leadership position."
He also said that, with that being said , the province is committed to providing the necessary resources and training to help farmers maximize their potential in cacao cultivation, ultimately contributing to the province's growing agricultural industry. This strategic focus on diversification will not only benefit local farmers but also strengthen Quezon's position in the national agricultural landscape.
Quezon Governor "Doktora Helen" expressed her ambition for Quezon to be recognized as a cacao powerhouse. "Cacao provides significant supplemental income for our farmers," she emphasized. "This summit will help us maintain our competitive edge and enhance this important industry."
She also highlighted the importance of sustainable farming practices and innovation in cacao cultivation. She emphasized the need for continuous learning and collaboration among stakeholders to achieve long-term success in the industry.
This, according to the governor, is critical for the next generation of caco farmers in Quezon. Not embracing the advancements in farming techniques and market trends could hinder the growth of the cacao industry in the province.
DA CALABARZON Regional Executive Director Marvin Pateña expressed the department's continued support for the province's cacao development. He said cacao has the potential to be a key driver of economic growth in Quezon, providing livelihood opportunities for farmers and contributing to the province's overall development.
The summit brings together cacao growers, industry stakeholders, and provincial government agencies like the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Trade and Industry Philippines (DTI), and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Through symposiums, exhibits, and networking opportunities, it focuses on improving cultivation, quality control, and marketing to elevate Quezon's cacao sector.
Attendees sampled locally-made cacao products directly from producers, showcasing the diverse culinary potential of the region's cacao. The summit also serves as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among participants, fostering innovation and sustainability in the industry.
The Quezon Cacao Summit 2024 is a also a major step in strengthening the province's cacao industry, creating significant opportunities for local farmers, and positioning Quezon as a leader in cacao production.
Gov. Tan plans to hold a chocolate festival, transforming Quezon's reputation from a coconut hub to a leader in cacao production. This festival will highlight the economic potential of cacao alongside the province's famous Niyugyugan Festival.
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