The 14-hectare Hacienda Libertad, a major producer of cacao, holds the distinction of being the first Good Agricultural Practice (GAP)-certified farm in Capiz. With assistance from DOST and other national government agencies, the farm was able to implement sustainable agricultural practices. The DOST’s Consultancy for Agricultural Productivity (AP) program played a pivotal role, providing Hacienda Libertad with the expertise of Mr. Adonis M. Traje as their consultant and resources necessary to achieve GAP certification. Through the dedication of its owner and leading entrepreneur, Dr. Rose Marie N. Conlu, the farm has become a model for sustainable cacao production. Dr. Conlu’s dedication extends beyond production. She is also the President of Capiz Cacao Industry Cooperative which established the cacao processing facility funded by the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Consultancy for Agricultural Productivity (AP) program provides consulting services to help improve the agricultural productivity of the firms. The accredited consultant is deployed to work with firms to identify areas for improvement and implement science and technology solutions and innovations that boost productivity and sustainability.

Hacienda Libertad has received assistance such as certification guide for GAP and Organic Agriculture, training in various aspects of cacao production, including GAP practices, traceability, record-keeping, quality control, pest management, fertilization, water management, soil management, and even fruit production techniques.

The program’s effectiveness is evident in Hacienda Libertad’s performance. The farm has not only secured the GAP certification but also seen a significant increase in its cacao yield and quality of their beans.

GAP certification plays a crucial role in Philippine agriculture. It ensures farms follow sustainable practices, resulting in safe and healthy products that meet export market standards. This certification is being issued by the Philippine Good Agricultural Practices Program (PhilGAP) of DA, a certification program that promotes the adoption of good agricultural practices. PhilGAP is designed to ensure that agricultural products, whether food or non-food, are produced, processed, and handled in a safe and sustainable manner. The program focuses on four key areas: food safety, environmental protection & management, worker well-being, and product quality. (MCPielago/DOST Capiz)

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