The Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD) hosted the Training Seminar on Sustainable Cacao Propagation, “A Sustainable Livelihood Development Program for Conservation Farming Community (CFC) of Del Rosario, Pili, Camarines Sur” at the Binanuaanan Farmers Community Development Association Incorporated (BFCDAInc) Center, Binanuaanan, Pili, Camarines Sur on February 1, 2, and 8, 2020.

It is one of the objectives stipulated in the Anayan-Rumangrap Watershed Conservation Project – recipient of the grant from Seacology (a non-profit organization based in California) – specifically aims to capacitate CFCs, introduce entrepreneurship skills, maximizes production and optimize the use of their local products as emphasized by General Manager Virgilio B. Luansing I in the Opening Remarks.

The CFCs were trained on sustainable cacao propagation and expected to sustain and expand the seed capital granted by Seacology for their livelihood development. Likewise, this program will help expand tourism industry within the area thru agri-ecotourism and generate additional revenue for the government to finance future development projects for the benefit of the people and the environment.

The training outlined different topics starting with Cacao Propagation, Layout and Planting, Cultural Maintenance, and Weed Management. The following session focused on Fertilizer Application, Harvesting, Fermentation, Drying and Storage of cacao seeds, while practicum was held on February 8, 2020.

The training was likewise supported by the local government unit of Pili with Mayor Tomas P. Bongalonta, Jr. and the BFCDA Inc. through the leadership of Mr. Edison Petalio, Proprietor of MCF Agro-Ventures and the Training Facilitator.

The CFCs as the project cooperators will be part of the continuous education and protection effort of MNWD and its partner agencies in the Mt. Isarog Natural Park (MINP). Seminars and training courses will be conducted to better equip them in upholding high standards of service in performing their respective responsibilities.

The 3-day training on cacao production is part of Phase 1 of the said project, which is directed towards the capability building of the community. It was organized by the Engineering and Environment Department (EED) headed by OIC Department Manager Vicente Aniceto D. Rubio. (APVSGonzales)

Mr. Edison Petalio (leftmost) from MCF Agro-ventures with Mayor Bongalonta, Jr. , GM Luansing I, and DMA Vicent e Aniceto D. Rubio (seated from left to right) during the Sustainable Cacao Production Training at Binauaanan, Pili, Camarines Sur.

Some of the members of the CFC (recipients of the grant from Seacology) attended the 3-day training organized by EED in partnership with LGU Pili and BFCDA Inc