Philippine Cacao Industry Gains Global Recognition Through Quality Awards

In a remarkable shift, the Philippine cacao industry is gaining international recognition, largely due to the Philippine Cacao Quality Awards (PCQA), which have become a benchmark for excellence in the sector. This initiative, orchestrated by the Philippine Cacao Industry Council and supported by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade and Industry, aims to elevate the quality of cacao produced in the Philippines, enabling local farmers to compete on the global stage.

One notable success story is that of Gerardo Dean, whose farm, Apoy Benit’s Cacao Agricultural Farming in Samar, secured a silver award at the prestigious Cacao of Excellence Awards in Amsterdam earlier this year. This accolade not only highlights the quality of his cacao beans but also places Calbayog City on the map of “fine-flavor” cacao, a niche market where quality is paramount. Dean attributes his success to an agroforestry approach that promotes biodiversity and sustainable farming practices, stating that they strictly adhere to good agricultural practices and that this is the secret of their success and why their cacao beans thrive.

“We strictly adhere to good agricultural practices. This is the secret of our success and why our cacao beans thrive.”Gerardo Dean, owner of Apoy Benit’s Cacao Agricultural Farming

The PCQA evaluates cacao beans through a rigorous process, assessing their physical quality and conducting blind sensory evaluations by expert tasters. This methodology ensures that only the highest quality beans are recognized and promoted. According to the Philippine Cacao Industry Council, the awards educate farmers on the importance of proper fermentation and drying techniques, which significantly influence flavor profiles.

As the awards continue to gain traction, they have begun to shift the mindset of Filipino farmers from focusing solely on volume production to emphasizing quality craftsmanship. Winning farmers are not only recognized for their efforts but also gain access to premium markets, allowing them to command higher prices for their cacao. For instance, Dean's farm now supplies both local artisan chocolate makers and international markets.

The impact of the PCQA is evident in the broader regional shift towards high-value crops, particularly in Eastern Visayas, where cacao farming is becoming increasingly viable as a response to the declining prices of traditional crops like copra. The recognition from the PCQA provides local farmers with the leverage needed to break free from the cycle of low commodity prices, fostering a new generation of cacao growers who are encouraged to invest in quality production.

“The awards educate farmers on the importance of proper fermentation and drying techniques.”Philippine Cacao Industry Council

Furthermore, government support has played a crucial role in this transformation. Dean’s farm was recognized as the Outstanding Good Agricultural Practices-Certified Cacao Farm in the Visayas under the Umahon nga Manggad program, which underscores the importance of sustainable farming practices. The Bureau of Plant Industry has also confirmed that the farm’s mother trees are accredited varieties, enabling Dean to produce certified seedlings for other local growers.

As the Philippine cacao industry continues to evolve, the PCQA stands as a testament to the potential of Filipino farmers to produce world-class cacao. With continued support and recognition, the humble cacao bean is being transformed from a mere agricultural product into a symbol of Filipino craftsmanship and resilience.