CABARROGUIS, Quirino (PIA) - - The provincial government through the Office of the Provincial Agriculture (OPAg) here recently hosted the Cluster meeting at the provincial capitol for the province’s coffee and cacao stakeholders.

High-Value Crops Provincial Coordinator Macaria Cabe said the meeting aimed to plan and discuss some strategies to enhance productivity, improve product quality, and explore new markets for the farmers of the said commodities.

During the meeting the resource speakers from DTI Regional Office such such as Regional Coffee Industry Focal Person Rosemarie N. Batang and Regional Cacao Industry Focal Person Romeo S. Panopio II discussed the results of the 2023 Philippine Coffee Quality Competition (PCQC).

Certificates of Participation were awarded to Q-Life Upland Ecosystem Program and Mataga-ay Coffee Growers Producers Cooperative for participating in the 2023 PCQC with entries graded as Fine Robusta.

According to the DTI Quirino Facebook Page, the resource persons also discussed the 2023 Programs, Projects, and Activities and provided insights in making the cacao and coffee value chain smarter and more resilient.

Representatives from the line agencies and agricultural stakeholders shared their action plans, knowledge and experience, providing valuable insights into modern techniques such as precision farming, post-harvest processing, and quality control measures.

The discussions also showcased innovative technologies and best practices that can be utilized to streamline production processes and enhance product value and ways to expand domestic and international market opportunities for locally grown coffee and cacao.

“The stakeholders further explored avenues for collaboration with industry associations, cooperatives, and government agencies to establish direct links between farmers and buyers, recognizing the crucial role of market access and trade promotion,” the DTI said.

Also discussed were the establishment of a training center and mentorship programs to provide technical assistance, educate farmers on modern farming practices and foster innovation in the sector.

“The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders and the commitment displayed during the meeting set the stage for a promising future, where the province’s coffee and cacao produce will flourish and gain recognition in the domestic market,” the DTI concluded. (TCB/PIA Quirino)