Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) President Edward Du met with ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) broadcast journalist and 2022 Marshall McLuhan Fellowship Awardee Karmina “KC” Constantino during a McLuhan Forum organized by Silliman University College of Mass Communication in Dumaguete City. In his meeting with Ms. Constantino, President Du also introduced to the veteran journalist NOCCI’s Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate OTOP Project which intends to support local Cacao farmers and to save Mt. Talinis rainforest.
NOCCI President Edward Du Showcases Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project to ANC Journalist Karmina Constantino at Silliman University Forum
In a notable convergence of business and media, Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) President Edward Du engaged with ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) broadcast journalist and 2022 Marshall McLuhan Fellowship Awardee Karmina “KC” Constantino during a McLuhan Forum organized by Silliman University College of Mass Communication in Dumaguete City. The meeting served as an excellent platform for President Du to introduce the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate OTOP (One Town, One Product) Project, an initiative aimed at supporting local cacao farmers and preserving the Mt. Talinis rainforest.
President Du’s discussion with Ms. Constantino highlighted the significance of the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project, which is designed to empower local cacao farmers by providing them with sustainable economic opportunities. By fostering the production of high-quality dark chocolate, the project aims to establish a niche market for Negros Oriental’s cacao products. This initiative not only boosts the local economy but also promotes the rich agricultural heritage of the region.
The Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate OTOP Project is part of NOCCI’s broader effort to champion local products and drive economic growth through sustainable practices. The project emphasizes the cultivation of cacao in an environmentally friendly manner, aligning with global trends towards sustainable agriculture and ethical consumerism. By prioritizing the welfare of local farmers and the environment, NOCCI demonstrates a commitment to holistic development.
During the forum, President Du elaborated on the dual objectives of the Mt. Talinis project: economic empowerment and environmental conservation. He explained that by supporting cacao farmers, the initiative helps to stabilize their incomes and improve their living standards. Concurrently, the project includes efforts to conserve the Mt. Talinis rainforest, a vital ecological area. This dual approach ensures that economic gains do not come at the expense of environmental degradation.
Ms. Constantino, known for her insightful journalism and advocacy for social issues, expressed keen interest in the project. She acknowledged the potential of the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate to serve as a model for other regions seeking to balance economic development with environmental stewardship. Her engagement with the project highlights the role of media in amplifying significant local initiatives and fostering broader awareness.
The McLuhan Forum at Silliman University provided an ideal setting for this exchange of ideas. It brought together thought leaders, journalists, and business executives to discuss innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. President Du’s presentation of the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate Project underscored the importance of local entrepreneurship in driving sustainable development.
NOCCI President Edward Du and ANC journalist Karmina Constantino at the McLuhan Forum was a significant moment for promoting the Mt. Talinis Dark Chocolate OTOP Project. The initiative stands as a testament to NOCCI’s dedication to fostering local economic growth while preserving the natural environment. By supporting local cacao farmers and advocating for rainforest conservation, NOCCI is paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for Negros Oriental. The positive reception of the project by influential figures like Ms. Constantino further validates its potential impact and sets a precedent for similar initiatives across the country.
