General Santos City – The SOCCSKSARGEN Coffee Farmers Congress, themed "Enriching Farmers’ Lives with Sustainable Quality Coffee Production," officially opened on January 22-24, 2024, at Greenleaf Hotel, bringing together key stakeholders, industry experts, and coffee farmers from across the region. The three-day event aimed to strengthen the local coffee sector through knowledge sharing and innovative farming practices.
Hon. Mayor Lorelie G. Pacquiao warmly welcomed guests and dignitaries, expressing her gratitude to the organizers and the hardworking coffee farmers dedicated to advancing the industry. She highlighted the sector’s crucial role in uplifting livelihoods and boosting the local economy.
The congress was graced by the presence of Dir. Jessie V. Beldia, Ph.D., OIC-Center Director of ATI-RTC XII; Engr. Anne Glyn Lisbo, Deputy Director of the High-Value Crops Development (HVCD) Program, representing Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.; and Dir. Ricardo M. Oñate Jr., F2C2 Program Director. Also in attendance were representatives from the Regional Coffee Council, DA-RFO XII, DTI Region XII, Philippine Coconut Authority Region XII, the Provincial Agriculturist Offices of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sarangani, and Sultan Kudarat, alongside local coffee farmers.
The congress features technical sessions, success stories, and discussions addressing the challenges and opportunities in coffee production. With a focus on sustainability and competitiveness, the event serves as a platform for empowering farmers with modern agricultural techniques and market insights, ensuring a thriving coffee industry in SOCCSKSARGEN.