As part of the global community’s celebration of World Chocolate Day, Davao del Sur State College, through its Cacao Sensory Laboratory, successfully hosted the Kakao Konek 2026: Tableya and Sikwate Tasting Contest at the DSSC Cacao Sensory Laboratory on July 6, 2026.
In partnership with the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG) led by Provincial Agriculturist Raul R. Fuencillo, MAgDev; and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-XI led by Provincial Director Engr. Maria Victoria R. Placer, alongside Provincial High Value Crops (HV) Coordinator Ferdinand L. Crispino, led the activity that gathered cacao producers and stakeholders from across Davao del Sur. They were welcomed by DSSC President Dr. Augie E. Fuentes, who noted the importance of such activities in advancing quality cacao production, strengthening value-added processing, and promoting collaborative efforts towards the advancement of the Province’s cacao industry.
Participants from different municipalities around the province showcased their locally produced tableya and sikwate, which underwent sensory evaluation by a panel of judges based on established quality standards. The competition showcased outstanding cacao products that embodied excellence in craftsmanship, flavor, and quality.
The activity shows DSSCs support to promoting local cacao products, strengthening partnerships with agencies and industry to advance research, innovation, and extension activities contributing to agricultural development and economic growth, aligned with various Sustainable Development Goals particularly, SDG 2 (Zero Hunger); SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth); SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure); and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
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