DILIMAN, Quezon City – The latest free seminar of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), which focused on cacao production and processing, was a sweet success in giving new knowledge and information to around 300 individuals from different locations and walks of life.

ATI Regional Training Center XI Training Specialists Ofelia Sanchez and Richel Zamora talked about the Prospect of Cacao Production as an Enterprise and Cacao Production Technology, Harvest, and Postharvest Practices, respectively.

Zamora expounded on the characteristics of the three varieties of cacao, namely, Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario as well as its hybrids such as UF18, BR25, and W10. He underscored three important things in cacao production which are the genetic material of the cacao plant and its environment and management.

He also talked about the pests and diseases affecting cacao quality and post-harvest processes including pod breaking/bean removal, pod storage, fermentation, drying, among others. “Cacao has a very good market, provided that your cacao is of good quality. It is very important to be mindful in every step, from planting to processing,” Zamora said.

Upon learning about the free seminar, 46-year-old Amado Lamagna from Bulacan was quick to register online, having recently bought some six cacao seedlings. A former overseas Filipino worker, Lamagna now focuses his attention on farming and has even encouraged one of his children to study agriculture in college.

“The free seminars being offered here (at the ATI) are very helpful to people like me who want to gain knowledge and skills in farming,” he said.

Meanwhile, Rehoboth Association Food Processing Manager Joycedel Macias demonstrated the steps in making artisan chocolate bars. She also shared some tips on what types of milk and sugar to use as she discussed the ingredients.

Aside from the lectures, free information, education, and communication materials were also handed out during the seminar which was held October 13, 2017 at the ATI Compound in this city.