The Sweet Story of Cacao in Davao City: From Tree to Table

Davao City, known as the “Cacao Capital of the Philippines,” is more than just a tourist destination with rich culture and vibrant city life—it’s a fertile ground where one of the finest cacao varieties in the world grows. In recent years, cacao farming has uplifted local agriculture and contributed to Davao’s global recognition in the craft chocolate industry.

Let’s look deeper into why cacao thrives in Davao, how it’s grown, and why it’s worth supporting this flavorful treasure.

Cacao and Davao: A Perfect Match

The Ideal Climate and Soil

Davao’s geography gives it a natural edge when it comes to cacao production. Its warm climate, well-distributed rainfall, and fertile volcanic soil make it an ideal place for growing cacao trees. These trees are sensitive to harsh conditions, and Davao’s tropical environment offers just the right balance of humidity and warmth, which are essential for healthy cacao pods.

A Rich Agricultural Tradition

Cacao is not new to Davao. For decades, smallholder farmers have cultivated cacao trees, often alongside other crops like coconut and banana. However, in the last ten years, there has been a notable increase in efforts to professionalize the cacao industry, driven by both government support and private initiatives. Davao’s farmers are now more organized, trained, and equipped to produce world-class beans.

From Pod to Chocolate: The Journey of Davao Cacao

Harvesting and Fermentation

Cacao production starts with the harvest. Cacao pods are usually harvested by hand, using a curved knife or pruning shears to avoid damaging the tree. Once collected, the beans are scooped out and fermented for several days. Fermentation is a crucial step—this is where the flavor starts to develop. The quality of fermentation significantly affects the taste of the final chocolate.

Drying, Roasting, and Processing

After fermentation, the beans are sun-dried to reduce moisture content. This drying phase usually takes place on wide mats or drying tables under the Davao sun. Once dried, the beans are ready for roasting. Roasting brings out the chocolatey aroma and helps remove the shell. From here, the beans are ground into nibs, then into a paste called cacao liquor, which is the base for all chocolate products.

Local businesses and artisan chocolate makers in Davao are now taking pride in bean-to-bar processing—ensuring quality is maintained every step of the way.

Why Davao Cacao is a Global Standout

Recognized Around the World

In 2019, Davao’s cacao beans were included in the Top 50 of the Cocoa of Excellence Programme in Paris. This recognition cemented the city’s reputation as a premier cacao producer. What makes Davao cacao unique is its fine flavor—nutty, fruity, sometimes with floral notes—that meets the standards of fine-flavor cacao recognized worldwide.

Supporting Sustainable Farming and Livelihood

Behind every bar of Davao-made chocolate are local farmers and cooperatives who rely on cacao farming for their livelihoods. When you buy cacao products from Davao, you’re not just enjoying delicious chocolate—you’re supporting fair trade, sustainable practices, and the growth of rural communities.

The Department of Agriculture and other agencies continue to push initiatives like the Philippine Cacao Industry Roadmap, which aims to make the country a leading cacao producer by 2025. Davao City is at the heart of this mission.

Discover and Support Local Cacao with Good Fruit Solutions

If you want to enjoy Davao’s best cacao or support cacao-based products that promote sustainable agriculture, Good Fruit Solutions is here to help. As part of our advocacy for clean, local, and sustainable food sources, we offer high-quality cacao products sourced directly from farmers and cooperatives in Davao.

From cacao nibs to tablea and other chocolate-based goods, Good Fruit Solutions aims to bring the richness of Davao cacao straight to your home. Support local. Support sustainability. Taste the difference.

Experience the story of Davao’s cacao—one bite at a time.