The Isabela Provincial Cacao Industry Development Council, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA), proudly celebrated World Chocolate Day this July 2024 with a series of significant events aimed at bolstering the local cacao industry and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

The celebration kicked off with the Isabela Cacao Cooperative Pre-Registration Seminar on 8 July 2024, held at the ISU Echague Campus in Echague, Isabela. Conducted by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region 2, the seminar was designed to prepare the council for official registration as a cooperative. This initiative is a crucial step towards formalizing the efforts of cacao farmers and stakeholders in the province, fostering a more unified and effective approach to cacao cultivation and commercialization.

Continuing the celebration, on 23 July 2024, the council, in partnership with DTI Region 2 – Isabela, Valdez Integrated Farm, and SA Cacao Food Products, organized a tree planting and feeding program in Bannawag, Angadanan, Isabela.

This event emphasized the importance of environmental sustainability and demonstrated the council’s commitment to community welfare. The tree planting initiative aimed to enhance local biodiversity and support the ecosystem, while the feeding program provided nutritious meals to the community, underscoring the council’s holistic approach to development.

Looking ahead, the Isabela cacao stakeholders are set to participate in the upcoming National Cacao Congress 2024 in Cebu City on 30-31 July 2024. This prestigious event will offer a platform for the Isabela cacao community to showcase their products and network with other industry leaders and experts from across the country. Participation in this congress represents a significant opportunity for the Isabela cacao industry to gain national recognition and explore new market opportunities.

The Isabela Provincial Cacao Industry Development Council extends its gratitude to all partners, participants, and community members who contributed to the success of these events. Through continuous collaboration and dedicated efforts, the council remains committed to advancing the cacao industry in Isabela, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for all stakeholders involved. ♦

Date of release: 30 July 2024