Alea Chocolates Speaks at the Regional Launch: Empowering Farmers Through Cacao Branding and Business Growth

Alea Chocolates’ Founder and President, Eileen Kae Relao, addressed over 500 farmers and stakeholders at a major event hosted by the Department of Agriculture. As the selected local cacao company, Alea shared insights on branding, growing sustainable businesses, and the future potential of Bicol cacao, inspiring local farmers to see the value of their work.

Alea Chocolates was honored to be the featured speaker at the Regional Launching and Awarding of Interventions for Farmers event organized by the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 5 in collaboration with the Philippine Coconut Authority. The event, held on October 4, 2024, at the Albay Provincial Agriculture Office in Camalig, Albay, brought together over 500 farmers and key stakeholders to discuss the future of cacao farming and sustainable agricultural growth in the Bicol region.

As the only local cacao company selected to address the assembly, Alea Chocolates’ Founder and President, Eileen Kae Relao, shared the company’s journey of transforming Bicol’s raw cacao into a premium brand that now reaches international markets. In her inspiring speech, Kae highlighted three major points to the audience:

1. Cacao can be as mainstream as coffee and tea. “Imagine a world where cacao is as common in our cups as coffee and tea. It’s possible, and it’s within our reach,” Kae said passionately. She urged farmers to view cacao not just as an agricultural product, but as a versatile and globally appealing commodity that has the potential to become a staple in cafes and homes around the world.        
2. Bicol Cacao is world-class. Kae emphasized that Bicol’s unique climate and volcanic soil produce high-quality cacao that stands out on the international stage. “You are growing something truly special. Our cacao has the flavor profile and richness that the world’s best chocolatiers are looking for,” she said, encouraging farmers to take pride in their product and see themselves as global suppliers of a world-class ingredient.        
3. Alea Chocolates is not here to take over your farms. “We’re not here to take over, but to encourage you to plant more,” Kae explained, addressing concerns about large companies encroaching on local farms. She highlighted Alea’s commitment to a win-win model of growth, where the focus is on sustainable expansion and empowering farmers to be at the forefront of the industry’s success. “We want to see a future where your children and grandchildren continue what you’ve started, building not just farms, but legacies.”

Kae’s speech was met with applause and appreciation; there was a profound silence, as the entire audience remained quiet and fully engaged, hanging onto every word she said, particularly when she shared personal anecdotes that connected with the audience. She told the story of her great-grandmother, who would never have imagined that one day her cacao beans would be used in cafes across the Philippines and even overseas. “She had no idea that generations later, her hard work would result in a thriving cacao business and a brand that’s making waves globally,” Kae said.

She illustrated this vision with a quote from Warren Buffett: “Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” Kae used this to remind farmers that the work they are doing today is invaluable, and one day, they will see the long-term impact of their dedication. “Your efforts are planting the seeds for future generations to reap the rewards,” she added.

A Call for Greater Support
Kae concluded her speech by addressing local government agencies, citing the development of today’s first-world countries as a model for growth. “Our farmers need more funding, support, and technical training if we want to elevate Bicol and the Philippines as a whole,” she stated. “We can’t just talk about it—we need to invest in it. When farmers thrive, communities thrive, and ultimately, our nation thrives.”

Championing Local Cacao
Alea Chocolates’ inclusion as the featured speaker was a recognition of the company’s role as a trailblazer in the Philippine cacao industry. “It’s a privilege to share our experiences and inspire our fellow farmers to see the potential in what they grow,” Kae said during her presentation. She emphasized the importance of creating strong branding that tells a story, connects with consumers, and showcases the unique qualities of Bicol cacao.

Inspiring Future Entrepreneurs
Kae encouraged farmers to explore business opportunities beyond raw cacao production, such as creating specialty products like tablea, nibs, and premium chocolate bars, which can significantly increase their profitability. By investing in the branding and development of high-quality cacao products, farmers can build sustainable businesses that contribute to the growth of the region’s economy and elevate Bicol’s reputation as a premier cacao-growing region.

A Commitment to Sustainable Growth
As Alea continues to grow, the company remains dedicated to helping farmers unlock the full potential of their crops. Through initiatives like the Barista Scholarship Fund, partnerships with local farmers, and regular training workshops, Alea is actively investing in the future of Bicol’s agricultural sector. The company’s mission is not just to grow its business, but to ensure that the entire community benefits from the success of Bicol cacao.

By sharing its expertise and experience at events like this, Alea Chocolates hopes to inspire more farmers to turn their passion for cacao into thriving businesses that contribute to the growth of the region’s economy and its standing in the global cacao market.

Looking Ahead
For more information about Alea’s community initiatives and to stay updated on future events, follow our news section and connect with us on social media. Together, we can build a stronger, more sustainable future for Bicol’s cacao industry.