SAN FRANCISCO, AGUSAN DEL SUR — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Agusan del Sur, through its Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), in collaboration with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Agusan del Sur, held the Cacao Innovate Training on August 18, 2026, at the NGPI MPC Cacao Processing Center in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. The activity was conducted as part of DTI’s commitment under its Farm Business School (FBS) partnership to promote cacao product development and value-adding, providing local cacao processors with knowledge and skills to produce competitive and market-ready chocolate products. The initiative highlights the government’s efforts to strengthen the agribusiness sector while helping agrarian reform beneficiaries access opportunities in higher-value markets.
Expert-Led Sessions to Enhance Product Quality and Innovation
Ms. Rosanna Jose Lisbos, R&D Head and Manager of Lisbos Cacao Trading, along with Mr. Tirso Lisbos, led the training and shared their expertise, innovations, and practical insights aimed at improving NGPI MPC’s existing DIWATA Chocolate and developing additional cacao-based products. Lisbos Cacao Trading is recognized for producing “Bacuag’s Best Homemade Pure Tablea,” which is made from 100% quality cacao beans. DTI Agusan del Sur Provincial Director Marson Jan S. Dolendo also attended the activity, expressing his support and encouraging participants to embrace innovation in developing chocolate products that are both competitive and ready for the market.
Boosting the Local Economy Through Cacao Value-Adding
The Cacao Innovate Training demonstrates DTI’s continued support for agrarian reform beneficiaries and local cooperatives in converting raw cacao into higher-value products. The NGPI MPC Cacao Processing Center, which has received assistance from the Department of Agriculture’s High-Value Crops Development Program, plays an important role as a local facility for cacao processing and value-adding. Through technical guidance, expert knowledge, and hands-on training, DTI and DAR are helping cacao processors enhance product quality, introduce new products, and expand their market reach. These efforts contribute to strengthening the local cacao value chain and supporting the continued development of Agusan del Sur’s cacao industry.
