News Details

DA Chief Eyes “Bicol Cacao” as Next Global Chocolate Brand

NPO

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August 24, 2025

NAGA CITY, Albay (Aug. 23, 2025) — Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has set his sights on elevating the Bicol region as a major player in the global cacao industry, positioning “Bicol Cacao” as a premium brand recognized for quality and sustainability.

Speaking at the first Bicol Cacao Congress and fourth Cacao Festival, Tiu Laurel emphasized the region’s favorable climate and rich soil that make it highly suitable for cacao cultivation. He cited the growing recognition of Bicol’s cacao, with Alea Chocolates recently designated as the region’s Key Cacao Processor by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

At the heart of the government’s strategy is the updated Cacao Industry Roadmap, which seeks to raise production, expand processing capacity, and strengthen market access while advancing sustainable and ethical practices. The roadmap also calls for greater private sector participation to reinforce the Philippines’ standing as a global supplier of high-quality cacao.

“Bicol Cacao can drive rural jobs, increase farmer incomes, and attract sustainable investments. More importantly, it can empower communities and inspire the next generation to see cacao as a thriving enterprise,” Tiu Laurel said.

The DA chief stressed that global market shifts—such as rising demand, climate-related supply disruptions, and new European rules against beans from deforested land—create new opportunities for naturally grown, climate-smart cacao from the Philippines.

Last year, cacao contributed ₱1.78 billion to the crop sector’s ₱436.9 billion output at current prices, marking a 49 percent jump from 2023. This surge reflected higher demand and better farmgate prices, underscoring cacao’s growing economic potential. Globally, the cocoa bean market is valued at USD14 billion and projected to reach USD17 billion by 2030.

“Our targets are bold: higher yields, better incomes, and a stronger global footprint,” Tiu Laurel said. “But at the core is something deeper—empowering farmers and building a sustainable future for Philippine cacao.”

He added that the DA’s support for the cacao industry is aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen the High Value Crops Development Program through increased access to planting materials, rejuvenation of old farms, and investments in fermentation and drying facilities.

“Let’s make Bicol a sweet spot on the global cacao map—literally and economically,” he concluded.

NPO News Team | DA-PR