Isabela Government Boosts Cacao Industry for Farmer Income Growth

ECHAGUE, Isabela, Philippines — The Isabela provincial government is strengthening its cacao industry, as it eyes the crop as a promising money-maker for farmers. Echague Mayor Faustino Dy V said sustained government support and a stronger partnership with stakeholders are crucial to the province’s push to become one of the country’s leading cacao producers. Dy said this would give farmers not just another crop to grow, but a more profitable livelihood for years to come. He added that growers are discovering the real value of cacao, not only in the harvest, but also in the products they create that include chocolates, tablea, cookies and specialty drinks. In last week’s 2nd Isabela Cacao Festival, Juliet Guieb was named the province’s outstanding cacao farmer during a ceremony at Isabela State University-Echague. Guieb, along with awardees Hermelita Valdez, Emily Verdadero and Edgar Nicolas, showcased an expanding lineup of cacao-based products. Sergio St. Galamgam, provincial agriculturist, said the Isabela government is strengthening cacao as a priority commodity, as it works with national agencies and industry partners to expand plantations, improve processing and open more market opportunities for local growers.