The Isabela Cacao Industry Council, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 2 Isabela Provincial Office, recently conducted a series of strategic meetings aimed at advancing the growth and sustainability of the cacao industry in the province.

On February 16 and 27, 2024, key officers of the Isabela Cacao Industry Council along with cacao farmers gathered for a planning meeting in Jones, Isabela, facilitated by DTI R2 Isabela. The meeting centered on discussing the council’s directions, upcoming initiatives, and plans for the year, with a particular focus on scheduling intensive cacao mapping and profiling activities in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and DTI.

During the discussions, various issues and concerns raised by cacao farmers were addressed, including the urgent need for planting materials to support production expansion, access to fertilizers, solar pumps for irrigation, and essential tools for farming and harvesting.

Subsequently, on February 19, 2024, representatives from the Isabela Cacao Industry Council and DTI R2 Isabela convened with Mayor Joelle Mathea S. Panganiban of Angadanan to deliberate on the plans and programs of the local government unit (LGU) pertaining to the cacao industry. The meeting resulted in a collaborative agreement to conduct intensive cacao mapping and raw materials scanning within the municipality.

As part of the municipality’s vision, plans are underway for cacao plantation expansion and the formation of a cooperative to effectively represent cacao farmers’ interests within the locality. This partnership between the Isabela Cacao Industry Council, LGU Angadanan, and DTI aims to bolster the cacao industry’s growth while ensuring the welfare and empowerment of local cacao farmers.

Through these collaborative efforts, both the Isabela Cacao Industry Council and DTI R2 Isabela remain steadfast in their commitment to fostering a thriving cacao industry that not only contributes to economic development but also promotes sustainable agricultural practices and community empowerment.

Date of release: 01 March 2024

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