After years of promoting the cacao industry, Davao City finally grabs the recognition as the Cacao Capital of the Philippines given by the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday.
Not only that, Davao City is also the regional winner for Organic Program under the local government unit (LGU) category.
The two recognition were received by Mayor Inday Sara Duterte from DA Secretary William Dar in a virtual event on Monday afternoon.
âFor the past few years now, Davao cacao has been recognized as among the worldâs best, with our local brands making waves in international chocolate competitions, and a growing number of Filipino and foreign chocolate makers sourcing their beans here,â Mayor Sara said in her acceptance message.
Mayor Sara noted that from the year 2015 to 2019, the city has produced 2,289 metric tons of cacao, making Davao the biggest cacao producing area in the entire country.
âWhile it is one thing for our cacao and chocolates to be renowned internationally, to be recognized by the national government is just as important for us, for this is an affirmation and a celebration of the efforts of our cacao farmers and processors, and everyone in the cacao industry,â she said.
Mayor Sara also highlighted the contribution of the cityâs cacao industry players and organic agriculture partners for Davao City to get the latest recognition.
âI thank all of our cacao industry players and organic agriculture partners because all of your efforts have brought Davao City these accolades.â
The mayor said that the goal of local agriculture is not just to ensure that there is food on the table for each Dabawenyo, but to make it a viable and sustainable industry for our farmers and all stakeholders.
Mayor Sara sees the agri awards as an inspiration for the city to continue to work harder for a more flourishing agricultural industry. CIO
