By Katrina Gracia Consebido
Three cacao farmers from Davao Region will represent the Philippines in the 2023 International Cocoa Awards (ICA) in Paris, France.
The Salon du Chocolat is the biggest international annual trade fair for the cocoa and chocolate industry.
Judith Gabasa of Bagong Silang, Calinan, Policarpo Enricoso, Jr. of Brgy. Saloy, Calinan, and Melinda Villaflor of Callawa, Buhangin District were chosen to represent the competition after winning the 2022 Philippine Cacao Quality Awards.
Department of Agriculture-Davao Region (XI) Regional Executive Director Abel James Monteagudo lauded the efforts of the cacao farmers for producing the “best quality cocoa.”
“Indeed, there is opportunity in cacao,” Monteagudo said.
He also commended the contribution of the local cacao farmers which was recently hailed as the “Chocolate and Cacao Capital of the Philippines.” – gb
