Cacao is an important crop around the world. Dubbed as “food of the gods”, cacao’s product has been described as being more than a food, and less than a drug.
Statistics show that the global demand for cacao beans grows annually by 2―3% and yet its production, in recent years, has been declining. Faced with the increasing pressure to supply the world market, the sector is dealing with complex economic, social, and
environmental issues.
Because of this, PCAARRD has identified cacao as one of the priority crops under its Industry Strategic Science and Technology Plans (ISPs).
The plan seeks to further develop the cacao industry through science-based solutions and innovations.
Foremost of the concerns that confront the cacao industry is the lack of varieties adapted to stressful environment vis–à–vis the need to increase yield.
Compared with Vietnam’s 50,000 metric tons of cacao or cocoa beans produced per year, the Philippines only produces 15,000 metric tons per year or an annual average of 500 kilograms per hectare.
Using the appropriate science and technology interventions, researchers are looking into the need to increase the yield of dried cocoa beans from 500 kilograms per hectare to 800 kilograms per hectare or an increase equivalent to 60%. Thus, they are eyeing the use of improved varieties and cultural management, among other measures.
Working along this concern, PCAARRD organized a workshop recently, which provided the much needed venue for the government and the private sector to work together towards sustained productivity and global competitiveness of the country’s cacao industry.
Discussed during the workshop were the cacao industry’s problems, S&T gaps, and the industry's status in the supply chain, among other important concerns.
Held at the PCAARRD Headquarters, it was participated in by representatives from the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Plant Industry, Bureau of Agricultural Research, and High-Value Corps Development Program; University of the Philippines Los Baños’ Horticulture Department and Institute of Agroforestry–College of Forestry and Natural Resources; Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development; University of Southern Mindanao; and Cocoa Foundation of the Philippines.