𝗣𝗮𝗧𝗲𝗚𝗔𝗬𝗢𝗡 𝗣𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝟱 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗖𝗮𝗰𝗮𝗼 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆

The CTU-led initiative trains farmers and entrepreneurs, showcasing eco-friendly cacao innovations and fostering creative entrepreneurship.

Cebu Technological University (CTU) – College of Education Department, under the leadership of Dr. Renissa S. Quiñones, continues to transform communities through the PaTeGAYON project. Now in its fifth phase, this initiative, Pagsagop sa Teknolohiya sa Grupong Alayon, fosters sustainable cacao farming, eco-friendly innovations, and entrepreneurial skills, impacting local farmers and entrepreneurs in Cebu.

In January 2024, CTU launched its Upscaling Training Program for chocolate and tableya production, introducing participants to crafting 70% dark chocolate and premium tableya. Later, from May 6-10, 2024, 30 cacao farmers and enthusiasts were trained in eco-friendly innovations, including scented cacao briquettes and fossilized leaves, with an emphasis on zero-waste production.

Throughout 2024, PaTeGAYON supported regional and national initiatives, including the Flavored Tableya Competition and the Region VII booth showcase during the National Cacao Congress on July 30-31, 2024. The team played key roles in organizing events and presenting their cacao nib products, highlighting CTU’s growth in the cacao industry.
From November 4-15, 2024, PaTeGAYON Phase 5 unfolded at Hidden Valley Mountain Resort, offering intensive training sessions for 40 participants. This 10-day community extension initiative demonstrated the university’s commitment to empowering communities through technology and skills training.

Now in its fifth year, PaTeGAYON is a flagship initiative aligned with the college’s goals of providing sustainable solutions and skills development for local communities. This year’s program, conducted in partnership with the Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LMPC) and their General Manager Ellen C. Limocon, catered to 40 participants, equipping them with essential skills in cacao production, creative entrepreneurship, and eco-friendly innovations under the guidance of project leader Dr. Renissa S. Quiñones, CTU-College of Education.

Participants engaged in a variety of training sessions conducted by expert facilitators:

• “Buut Therapy Session” by Dr. Vicente J. Igot: A transformative session encouraging participants to embrace their authentic selves while letting go of false attachments.
• Cacao Pods Breaking and Grafting by Dr. Renissa S. Quiñones: Comprehensive training on cacao pod handling and grafting techniques, essential for improving cacao yields and quality.
• Tour Guiding Lecture by Dr. Kafferine D. Yamagishi: A practical session equipping participants with skills to conduct meaningful and engaging guided tours.
• Soap Powder Making by Dr. Hubert G. Quiñones: An interactive workshop on creating cleaning and personal care products, emphasizing hands-on learning.
  The program also included sessions designed to unlock participants’ creativity:
• Packaging, Labeling, and Branding led by CTU’s Graphics and Design students and OJTs of Dr. Renissa S. Quiñones, Ms. Jerian Keth L. Quijano, Mr. Riejay C. Pioco, and Mr. Jenter Eunel B. Langbid: Participants learned basic design techniques using Adobe Photoshop and created improved product designs during a practical workshop.
• Neurographic Art by Prof. Romeo Lanzaderas: A hands-on art session encouraging self-expression through neurographic art techniques.
• Graphics and Design and T-shirt Design conducted under the guidance and expertise of Dr. Romeo P. Montecillo at Cebu Technological University.

On November 8, 2024, participants celebrated their achievements during a graduation ceremony, receiving certificates of completion and recognition for their hard work. The ceremony included reflection sessions and feedback-sharing as well, allowing participants to express their learnings and experiences.

The second week comprised advanced sessions on post-harvest cacao technologies led by Dr. Ging, who provided updates on improved fermentation and drying methods. On November 15, 2024, the project concluded with a comprehensive post-evaluation of PaTeGAYON-5 and a roadmap for the next phase.

PaTeGAYON-5 stands as a testament to CTU – College of Education Department’s dedication to community development. Through innovative training and strong partnerships, the project continues to inspire and uplift local communities, nurturing sustainability and resilience. As the initiative moves forward, it promises to deliver even greater impact in its future phases.

Project Leader: Dr. Renissa S. Quiñones
Team: Dr. Renissa S. Quiñones
Dr. Hubert G. Quiñones
Dr. Vicente J. Igot
Dr. Kafferine D. Yamagishi
Dr. Lanndon A. Ocampo
Dr. Romeo P. Montecillo
Prof. Romeo C. Lanzaderas
Ms. Jerian Keth L. Quijano
Mr. Jenter Eunel B. Langbid
Mr. Riejay C. Pioco