BACOLOD City – The Negros Occidental provincial government has initiated a chocolate processing training, designed to empower Negrense cacao farmers by equipping them with the skills and knowledge to add value to their produce.
The training, led by PUM Expert Henk Dekker, was recently held at Shared Service Facility which is being managed by the Provincial Technology and Livelihood Development Center headed by Liberty Alarcon.
By enhancing cacao processing capabilities, the aforesaid program aims to create greater opportunities for farmers, promote sustainable practices, and drive economic growth in the province, highlighting the province’s commitment to agricultural development and fostering a thriving cacao industry.
Meanwhile, the 17th Organic Farmers Festival and the 2nd Terra Madre Visayas concluded with a closing ceremony at the provincial capitol grounds on Saturday, November 23.
The two events generated P314,507 in sales during the opening day on November 19.
Gov. Lacson expressed gratitude to the organizers, participants, partners, and advocates, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the success of the five-day festival.
“You are the driving force behind this festival’s success, and together, we will continue to champion the cause of healthy food, sustainable livelihood, and environmental stewardship,” he said./PN
