Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) officers led by President Edward Du with Executive Director John Jalandoni held a meeting with the Malaunay Cacao Farmers and Chocolate makers at Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) office in Dumaguete City to ensure the success of the PRDP-World Bank Project in Valencia, Negros Oriental.
NOCCI Ensures Success of PRDP-World Bank Project in Valencia
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), led by President Edward Du and Executive Director John Jalandoni, held an important meeting with Malaunay cacao farmers and chocolate makers at the NOCCI office in Dumaguete City. The purpose of the meeting was to ensure the successful implementation of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) funded by the World Bank, specifically in the Valencia area, which aims to boost the cacao industry in Negros Oriental.
The PRDP-World Bank project is designed to support the development of the agricultural sector, focusing on cacao farming, processing, and value-chain improvements. It targets improving the livelihoods of local farmers and chocolate makers while enhancing the quality of cacao products for both the local and international markets.
Key Objectives of the PRDP-World Bank Project
The collaboration between NOCCI, cacao farmers, and local stakeholders aims to fulfill several key objectives of the PRDP-World Bank Project:
Enhancing cacao production by providing farmers with access to better farming practices, tools, and resources.
Improving post-harvest processing to create premium-quality cacao products.
Creating market linkages to connect farmers with chocolate makers, local businesses, and international buyers.
Promoting sustainable agricultural practices to ensure long-term viability for cacao farming in Negros Oriental.
Expanding cacao-based enterprises and creating additional value-added products for local consumption and export.
Meeting Highlights: Empowering Farmers and Chocolate Makers
During the meeting, President Edward Du and Executive Director John Jalandoni met with Malaunay cacao farmers and chocolate makers to discuss the implementation process of the PRDP-World Bank project. The discussions centered around farmers’ needs, challenges, and opportunities for growth within the cacao industry.
A key part of the discussion was the importance of improving cacao farming practices, particularly in the areas of soil health, pest management, and crop diversification. Farmers expressed their interest in adopting more sustainable farming practices that would not only enhance cacao yields but also ensure environmental preservation.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between NOCCI, the local government, and other key industry players. John Jalandoni emphasized the need for effective cooperation to maximize the benefits of the PRDP-World Bank project.
“The cacao industry has immense potential to contribute to the growth of our local economy,” said Edward Du. “Through this project, we aim to provide the support and resources that farmers need to elevate their production quality and expand their market reach.”
Training, Resources, and Technical Support
The PRDP-World Bank project provides training, technical support, and resources to cacao farmers and chocolate makers. This includes workshops on post-harvest processing, certification standards, and business management skills. Farmers will also gain access to modern agricultural tools and receive subsidies for farm inputs such as high-quality planting materials and fertilizers.
The goal is to help farmers enhance cacao bean quality, particularly through proper fermentation and drying techniques, to meet international standards. By improving the quality of cacao beans, the project hopes to increase the global competitiveness of cacao products from Negros Oriental.
Strengthening Market Access and Linkages
Another important topic discussed during the meeting was market access and linkages. Cacao farmers and chocolate makers voiced their concerns about finding stable markets for their products. In response, NOCCI reaffirmed its commitment to creating market connections through business matching events, trade fairs, and partnerships with chocolate manufacturers.
NOCCI aims to connect local farmers with local and international buyers, which will help to diversify their sales channels. The chamber will also assist in creating branding and marketing strategies for Negros Oriental cacao products to elevate the province’s profile in the global market.
Local Impact and Long-Term Sustainability
The project’s impact extends beyond cacao farmers and chocolate makers to the broader community in Negros Oriental. By improving cacao production and processing, the PRDP-World Bank project will create new jobs, strengthen local businesses, and stimulate economic growth.
Edward Du emphasized the long-term sustainability of the project. “We’re not just focused on short-term gains; this project is about ensuring that cacao farming and processing can provide sustainable livelihoods for generations to come.”
The Future of Cacao in Negros Oriental
Looking ahead, NOCCI plans to continue working closely with Malaunay cacao farmers and chocolate makers to ensure the successful rollout of the PRDP-World Bank project. The chamber will monitor the project’s progress, provide ongoing support, and adjust strategies to address emerging challenges.
Additionally, the partnership between NOCCI, cacao farmers, and the local government will serve as a model for other rural areas in Negros Oriental, where agriculture-based industries have the potential for significant growth and development.
The meeting between NOCCI officers and Malaunay cacao farmers marks an important step in the success of the PRDP-World Bank project. By providing farmers with the resources and support they need to succeed in the cacao industry, this initiative is poised to enhance the local economy and improve sustainability in the agricultural sector.
With collaboration, training, and improved market access, the cacao industry in Negros Oriental is set to flourish, opening doors to both local and international markets. NOCCI’s ongoing efforts to support cacao farmers reflect the chamber’s commitment to sustainable growth and economic development in the region.
