CARAGA REGION, May 13, 2024 – To enhance the capability of the farmers in growing cacao trees, the Department of Agriculture – Special Area for Agricultural Development (DA-SAAD) Caraga conducted training on Asexual Propagation for Cacao to the United Farmers Association of Camp Edward (UFACE) in Alegria, Surigao del Norte last April 17, 2024. 

On June 13 and September 28, 2023, the group already accepted the 9,692 cacao seedlings worth Php 2.69 million under the Cacao Production Project for FY 2023 – 2024. Upon receipt, the beneficiaries allow a two-week acclimatization period for clearing and land preparation for the seedlings to adapt to the climate temperature in the area. 

Mainly focused on Asexual Propagation and Pruning and hands-on activity for Cleft Grafting and Side Grafting, the training is crucial since UFACE is looking to expand its areas and association using existing cacao seeds and training knowledge, it’s important to implement pruning techniques that prevent the entry of pests and diseases while ensuring proper light distribution for high-quality fruit.

Resource Person, Mr. Josafat I. Biong, President of Alegria Cacao Growers Association discussed the advantages and disadvantages of sexual and asexual propagation, methods of cleft grafting, and side grafting and the importance of pruning. 

SAAD Area Coordinator Ms. Jennelyn Fajardo stated farmers are actively participating in the activity and grateful that through this cacao training the SAAD beneficiaries as cacao growers will develop and enhance their knowledge to delve into planting and help them encourage, especially in safekeeping of the cacao trees until their harvest.

For cacao production management, the farmer group has targeted an estimated area of 15 hectares with their individual areas at 0.2-0.3 hectares per member, where each member of the group was assigned to visit the area weekly or twice a month for round weeding, applying fertilizers, watering, and pruning. 

UFACE also received training last June 2023 about Cacao Production and Management such as clearing the area, shade establishment, staking and spacing, hole digging, planting, mulching, and weeding. 

Cacao typically takes 3-5 years to mature for harvest, and UFACE plans to produce fermented dried beans once the harvesting season arrives. Additionally, part of UFACE’s long-term goal is to produce and process cacao powder and chocolate, aiming to become a supplier to their municipality and neighboring areas. 

DA-SAAD acknowledges the relentless efforts of farmers as they persistently work to enhance and maintain agricultural productivity. They are committed to empowering farmers through education and capacity building, striving to improve their quality of life and create sustainable livelihoods within agricultural communities. ###

Writer: Shena Mae C. Pabia, DA-SAAD Caraga Regional Information Officer