By Vanessa Bacus and Seiryl Dumagonot/UM INTERNS
THE MENNONITE Economic Development Associates will hold a Cacao Cooperative Business Forum as part of the Resilience and Inclusion through Investment for Sustainable Agriculture (RIISA) project.
The forum will be held on March 22, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Casuga Integrated Farm, during the Tapok Tapok sa Kakaw Pyesta or Cacao Fiesta.
The event aims to increase the incomes and cacao yield of farmers, cacao cooperatives, and small and medium-sized enterprises by encouraging them to practice inclusive and sustainable activities.
During Wednesday’s Media Forum at Habi and Kape in Abreeza Ayala Malls, Natalie Macawaris, the MEDA director, said the discussions will enable different government agencies to establish a tightened relationship.
“The goal of the forum is to bring together the farmers, cooperatives and SMEs, the different agencies, and other market sectors,” she said.
This forum will also be participated by the Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Science and Technology, PAGASA, the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, DA Agriculture Training Institute, Philippine Coconut Authority, and Food and Drug Administration.
Cooperatives from different organizations and farmer groups will also be present at the said event.
Participants will also be offered various engaging learning sessions regarding environmentally sustainable agricultural practices, farming systems, and strategic learning agendas.
PLDT-SMART will also be supplying digital connectivity to support the cacao farmers in enhancing their e-learning, e-commerce, and financial inclusions.
