New facility to elevate cacao production in Zamboanga Sibugay

PAYAO, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Zamboanga Sibugay, through the Program Beneficiaries Development Division (PBDD) under the Village Level Farm Focused Enterprise Development (VLFED) Project, recently turned over a livelihood project to the Upper Sumilong Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (USCOMPC). 

The project includes a cacao nibs and cacao powder building rehabilitation worth PhP500,000, aims to produce high-quality and market-ready cacao products and establish a BFAD-LTO standard processing center.

Lolito Loberanes, chairman of USCOMPC, conveyed his gratitude for the initiative, highlighting that the project will enhance their production and improve the beneficiaries’ lives.

“We greatly appreciate this effort, as it significantly supports our production and, more importantly, it benefits our members,” Loberanes stated.

The local government of Payao supported the initiative and contributed PhP200,000. Last February 19, 2024, USCOMPC, signed an agreement with DAR Zamboanga Sibugay to boost their cacao production, and now, five months later, the assistance has materialized.

This facility will improve the lives of farmer-beneficiaries by boosting their income through cacao nibs and cacao powder production. The initiative highlighted DAR’s commitment to uplifting farmer-beneficiaries through comprehensive support services beyond land titles.

Cacao nibs and powder building rehabilitation aims for high-quality and market-ready products. | Photo: DAR Zamboanga Sibugay

The livelihood project benefits a total of 156 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs). The project provides infrastructure, equips farmer-beneficiaries with product enhancement skills, facilitates trade fair participation, and offers capacity development programs.

The project’s implementation has garnered strong support from various stakeholders, indicating optimism for its success. Continued collaboration from these stakeholders will be crucial in ensuring the project’s long-term impact and sustainability. (JPA/RBI/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay) 

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