THE Association of Bohol Cacao Producers hopes to increase cacao beans production for the next 3-5 years as they announced a new Board of Trustees to lead the 73-member organization on Thursday, October 20, 2022, at the Ceremonial Hall, New Capitol Building, Tagbilaran City.
During their annual meeting, 45 members were present to elect seven officers that will take charge of the association, taking up the challenge of producing and processing more cacao beans to sustain the livelihoods of cacao growers.
Efrenia Cantoneros Holt, owner of Atbang Farm in Cabayugan, Calape, Bohol, and part of the newly-elected officers, hopes Government Agencies can lend a hand in creating opportunities for Cacao growing to flourish in the province by providing financial support to growers.
“Naa mi mga resolutions nga gipasa nga hoping mi ma approve such as assistance gikan sa DA-Region 7 nga mo hatag og financial assistance for equipment and fertilizers sa among members. Naa mi resolutions gipasa kay Gov nga nag request mi og materials for JADAM technology kay dili sila readily available diri”, Holt said.
Bohol’s chocolate entrepreneur Dalareich Polot also graced the meeting and talked about Bohol’s lack of supply of cacao beans to produce chocolate products. Polot spoke about the potential of Boholano growers to produce more Cacao with help from stakeholders and from the Government in investing in sustainable agriculture.
“I hope and pray that 3 to 5 years from now, we can bring cacao beans, not only for our consumption but also to the world market. There’s an opportunity for our Cacao to flourish through proper investments”, Polot said.
The association aims to have a breakthrough in increasing production, especially in the aftermath of Typhoon Odette, which caused significant damage to Cacao Seedlings grown by the members. (rvo/gc)
