Sampaloc farmers train to boost cacao production, combat pests

By Rowena T. Cruz Sampaloc cacao farmers observe closely as trainers demonstrate proper pruning techniques during a recent agricultural trai...

By Rowena T. Cruz

Sampaloc cacao farmers observe closely as trainers demonstrate proper pruning techniques during a recent agricultural training session in Brgy. Banot. (Sampaloc LGU)

SAMPALOC, Quezon – The Sampaloc Municipal Government, under the leadership of the Mayor Noel Angelo Devanadera, and the Municipal Agriculture Office partnered with DA Region IV-A this week to deliver vital training for local cacao farmers. The session equipped participants with enhanced techniques in production, rejuvenation, and pest management, aiming to boost yields and farm sustainability.

Titled "Sustaining Cacao Farms," the program directly targeted methods to increase farmer output, fulfilling requests from the agricultural community for advanced guidance. Improved production not only benefits individual farmers but also contributes positively to Sampaloc's wider agricultural profile.



Expert trainers led the sessions, with Me-an Balmes covering Production and Rejuvenation, while Marvin Pateña focused on Pest and Disease Management. Following the detailed discussions, each participating farmer received a pruning saw to aid in essential tree maintenance.

The session culminated in a practical, hands-on demonstration in Barangay Banot. Trainers showcased proper cacao tree pruning techniques, stressing the importance of removing unhealthy or obstructive growth to foster better fruit production.

This initiative highlights the local government's commitment, spearheaded by the Municipal Mayor and the Municipal Agriculture Office, to empower the agricultural sector. Ensuring the vitality of the Sampaloc cacao industry remains a key priority for the administration.