Mr. Romel M. Felismino, a university researcher at IFST, conducted back-to-back seminars and training sessions on cacao processing. These sessions were held in Calaca City on August 18 and in Tanauan City on September 5-6, respectively.

During the seminar, the Batangas Cacao Farmers Association members gained understanding on the scientific basis of cacao processing. Meanwhile, the 2-day training session for the Tanauan City Cacao Farmers Association covered various topics, including the production of cacao beans, the biochemical makeup of cacao seeds, quality indicators, cacao manufacturing processes, and related machinery. Hands-on demonstrations covered refining, tempering, molding, cooling, and packing.

These extension activities were organized by DOST Batangas.

by: Dr. Joel P. Rivadeneira