Biliran Province’s drive to become a model agri-tourism province gains ground as the Provincial Local Government Unit (PLGU) partners with ATI to promote Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in cacao production, offering vital training that uplifts local farmers and elevates the province’s agricultural reputation.

Forty-seven agriculture workers and leaders meet at Fragoch Tourist Inn Hall C for ATI’s Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) cacao training.

The 3-day training is part of the tri-training series of the ATI, the agricultural training arm of the Department of Agriculture (DA). It is conducted in Biliran from September 17 to 19, 2025.

The three trainings focus on cacao, coffee, and tilapia processing. They take place at different locations simultaneously. These sessions aim to strengthen Biliran’s agro-industry and help local farmers and technicians overcome the challenges they face.

However, according to Ms. Concepcion B. Miro, Superintendent of ATI-Regional Training Center 8, the three concurrent trainings differ among the organizing institutions.

This is true aside from ATI’s support.

All three (3) training programs are coordinated with the collaborating agencies under the Serbisyong Biliranon banner program of Governor Roger Espina.

The Provincial-led Agricultural and Fishery Extension System (PAFES) of the Office of Provincial Agricultural Services (OPAS) leads the cacao training here.

At the Verol ECO-Farm, another training focuses on establishing a Coffee Nursery. This leads to accreditation by the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). It is led by the Coconut Farms and Industry Development Program (CFIDP) under the Philippine Coconut Authority and takes place alongside other sessions on the exact dates.

The event “Tilapia Transformed: Elevating Quality and Value through Processing” is held at the Lantawan Highlands Resort in Almeria, Biliran. The Local Government Unit of Almeria leads it.

ATI covers the cost of all the training, food, lodging, and materials.

Agri-technicians and leaders from all eight towns in the province attend the cacao training.

The Provincial Agriculturist, Mr. Brian S. Sinangote, RAgr., attends the training. Hon. Rogelio J. Espina, MD, FPOA, the provincial governor of Biliran, also graced the event.

Governor Espina said the tri-training matches Biliran’s goal to become an agri-tourism destination. The province has farming and fishing potential and is working with local groups and schools.

Based on the training’s rationale, the tri-training focuses on three products. Cocoa and coffee are considered the Philippines’ priority crops and are intercropped with coconuts. Coconuts are recognized as dollar earners among the country’s naturally produced crops.

“By planting cocoa and coffee with coconuts, we solve farming problems and use our land better,” Ms. Miro said.

Gov. Espina encouraged the participants to use government services and assistance. He emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship and the agro-industry’s potential, with assistance from the DA and DOST.

Mr. Sinangote emphasized the importance of working together in cocoa production and organization. He explained the roles of farmers, food technicians, and business owners in making chocolate in the province.

This encouragement inspired Mr. Vic Ramirez Viros, a 49-year-old agriculture graduate and retired police officer from Caibiran, Biliran Province, to keep farming and help the cacao industry grow in the province.

“We have to work together as a province. If we work alone, we will fail. We must share this effort,” said Mr. Viros, hopeful about cacao in the province.”

The local government aims to partner with both public and private groups. Their goal is to produce tablea and other chocolate products locally. This will support the local market and attract investors to the province of Biliran.

Gov. Espina also stated that he supports the province’s farming sector, enabling it to grow and succeed in agribusiness.

The 3-day training sessions will continue in the future. Upcoming editions will cover more on production and new ideas for managing these important crops.

Written by Cian Napalit

Photos by Cian Napalit