A Guide to Chris Fadriga Cacao Nursery and Plantation in Bago City
Chris Fadriga Cacao Nursery and Plantation is a renowned plantation in Bago City, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
The plantation offers a unique experience for visitors interested in learning about cacao farming and the chocolate-making process. The PDS Training Camp is located at Brgy. Atipuluan, Bago City, Negros Occidental. The nursery offers HEIRLOOM cacao seedlings of Filipino AROMATICO (Criollo variety) only. Visitors can take a farm tour and witness the process of cacao farming, from planting to harvesting. They can also participate in chocolate-making workshops and taste the delicious chocolate from the plantation’s cacao beans.
The plantation’s dedication to producing high-quality cacao and its commitment to sustainable farming practices make it a leader in the industry. Visitors can learn about the history of cacao farming in the Philippines and witness firsthand the hard work and dedication that goes into producing one of the world’s finest chocolates.
Chris Fadriga: The Cacao Farmer
Chris Fadriga is a Negrense cacao farmer who owns and operates the Filipino Aromatico Cacao Nursery and Plantation in Bago City. He is known for producing high-quality cacao beans, particularly the rare Criollo variety, which is highly sought after by chocolate makers from different countries.
Fadriga’s passion for cacao farming started as a young boy. He would help his father in their family’s cacao farm in the mountains of Negros Occidental. As he grew older, Fadriga became more interested in cacao farming and decided to pursue it as a career.
In 2010, Fadriga established the Filipino Aromatico Cacao Nursery, where he propagated different varieties of cacao, including the Criollo variety. He also established his own cacao plantation in Bago City, where he applied sustainable farming practices to ensure the quality of his cacao beans.
Fadriga’s success has not only brought him personal achievements but has also contributed to the development of the cacao industry in Negros Occidental. He has inspired other farmers to pursue cacao farming and has helped promote the province as a potential hub for high-quality cacao production.
Filipino Aromatico Cacao Origins
During his research, Fadriga made a remarkable discovery – the Philippines was the first country to receive the heirloom cacao beans from Mexico during the Galleon Trade of the 1500s! But when the Mexicans lost these varieties due to cross-pollination, some even came to Bago City in recent years to try to reclaim them.
Not wanting to let this happen, Fadriga declared, “It’s no longer yours; it’s ours now!” Fadriga registered the product with the Intellectual Property Office and named it Filipino Aromatico to ensure that the criollos were protected.
These heirloom criollos are said to have a flavor full of depth and nuttiness, and their aroma is deliciously distinct. Plus, it doesn’t need sugar to be sweet, making it the perfect cacao base for health-conscious individuals who can’t take much sugar.
Location and Environment
Chris Fadriga Cacao Nursery and Plantation is situated in Barangay Atipuluan, Bago City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. Bago City is a third-class city located in the western part of Negros Occidental, known for its agricultural industry and eco-tourism destinations. The city is approximately 21 kilometers from Bacolod, the capital city of Negros Occidental.
The nursery is in a tropical climate, with an average temperature of 27°C. The region experiences two distinct seasons: the wet season from May to October and the dry season from November to April. The soil in the area is suitable for cacao cultivation, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH level.
Chris Fadriga Cacao Nursery and Plantation is located near major cities such as Silay and Don Salvador Benedicto, known for their tourist attractions. The nursery is accessible by land transportation, with buses and jeepneys plying the Bago-Silay route.
The plantation is situated in a rural area, surrounded by vast farmlands and lush greenery. The location provides an ideal environment for the growth and development of cacao trees. The nursery uses sustainable farming practices to ensure the preservation of the environment and the production of high-quality cacao.
Chris Fadriga Cacao Nursery and Plantation has gained recognition in the Philippines and the global market. The Paris-based International Cocoa Awards recognized the heirloom cacao varieties propagated at the nursery as among the best in the world. The nursery is a testament to the potential of Philippine agriculture to compete in the global market.
Cacao Nursery and Plantation
Chris Fadriga Nursery and Plantation is known for its heirloom criollo cacao, which has won awards for its exquisite flavor. The nursery specializes in growing Filipino AROMATICO (Criollo variety) cacao seedlings.
Chris Fadriga, the chairman of the plantation, believes that the quality of cacao depends on the quality of the seedlings. Therefore, he ensures that the nursery produces high-quality cacao seedlings that will yield premium-quality cacao beans.
The plantation’s cacao trees are grown using sustainable agriculture practices. The farmers use organic fertilizers and pesticides to ensure the cacao beans are free from harmful chemicals. The plantation also employs local farmers, providing them with employment opportunities and helping to boost the local economy.
The Cacao Varieties
Fadriga has been on a mission to preserve the rich cacao heritage of the Philippines, having gathered 16 local cacao varieties from around the country. He believes he has taken the first step towards reviving the criollo, a once-forgotten heirloom variety, as more and more farmers are now recognizing the value of these old varieties and are striving to protect them.
Quality and Recognition
Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation in Bago City is known for producing high-quality cacao beans with exceptional aroma, flavor, appearance, and color. Several prestigious organizations have recognized the farm’s cacao beans, including the International Cocoa Awards and the Cocoa of Excellence Programme.
In 2021, Fadriga’s heirloom criollo cacao won the gold award at the International Cocoa Awards held in Paris, France. His cacao was named one of the 50 best cacao beans in the world and was included in the 2021 Cocoa of Excellence list compiled from 235 entries worldwide. Fadriga’s criollo is the most sought-after cacao variety and is known for its unique flavor profile is described as fruity, floral, and nutty.
Fadriga’s commitment to producing high-quality cacao has also been recognized in the Philippines. He received the Philippine Cacao Quality Award in 2020 for producing the best cacao beans in the country. The award is given to cacao farmers who meet the strict quality standards set by the Philippine Department of Agriculture.
Fadriga’s success in producing high-quality cacao is a result of his dedication and passion for the craft. He uses sustainable farming practices and pays close attention to every step of the cacao production process, from planting to harvesting to fermentation. The result is cacao beans that are not only delicious but also ethically and environmentally responsible.
The Chocolate-Making Process
At Chris Fadriga Cacao Nursery and Plantation, the chocolate-making process is carefully crafted to ensure the highest quality artisanal chocolate bars. The process starts with carefully selecting the cacao pods harvested by hand and then splitting them open to extract the beans.
Once extracted, the beans are fermented for several days to develop their unique flavor profile. During fermentation, the beans are turned regularly to ensure even fermentation and prevent mold growth.
After fermentation, the beans are dried in the sun or in a drying room until they reach the optimal moisture content. This step is crucial to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold during storage.
Once the beans are dried, they are roasted to develop their unique flavor and aroma. The roasting time and temperature are carefully controlled to ensure the perfect roast for each batch of beans.
After roasting, the beans are winnowed to remove the shell and reveal the nibs, which are then ground into a paste called chocolate liquor. The chocolate liquor is then mixed with sugar and milk to create a smooth and creamy chocolate.
Finally, the chocolate is tempered to give it a smooth and glossy finish. Tempering involves heating and cooling the chocolate to specific temperatures to ensure that the cocoa butter crystals are properly aligned.
At Chris Fadriga Cacao Nursery and Plantation, the chocolate making process is a labor of love, and the result is some of the finest artisanal chocolate bars available.
Support and Development
Chris Fadriga Cacao Nursery and Plantation in Bago City has been receiving support from various entities to further develop its operations and expand its reach.
Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo has been a staunch supporter of the nursery and plantation, recognizing its contribution to the local economy. In a recent interview with PNA, Yulo praised Fadriga for his dedication to the craft and his efforts to promote the city’s cacao industry.
The Department of Agriculture has also been providing assistance to the nursery and plantation through its various programs and initiatives. Fadriga has been actively participating in these programs, particularly those that focus on technology and innovation in cocoa production.
As a well-known cocoa producer, Fadriga has been sharing his knowledge and expertise with other cocoa producers in the country. He has been invited to speak at various conferences and seminars, sharing his experiences and best practices in cocoa farming.
Fadriga has also been actively participating in global competitions, showcasing the quality of his cacao beans and putting Bago City on the map as a top producer of high-quality cocoa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the reviews for Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation in Bago City?
Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation in Bago City has received positive reviews from customers and visitors. The plantation has been recognized as one of the world’s best cacao producers, and Chris Fadriga himself has won the Gold Award in the 2021 International Cocoa Awards in Paris for his heirloom criollo grown in Barangay Atipuluan, Bago City in Negros.
What is the price range for Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation in Bago City?
The price range for Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation in Bago City varies depending on the product and service. For more information, interested parties can contact Chris Fadriga directly.
Where is Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation located in Bago City?
Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation is located in Barangay Atipuluan, Bago City, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
How can I contact Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation in Bago City?
Interested parties can contact Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation in Bago City through the following contact information: +63 956 591 9071.
Which farmer from Negros won the Gold Award in Paris for his heirloom cacao?
Chris Fadriga, the chairman of Chris Fadriga Nursery and Plantation, won the Gold Award in the 2021 International Cocoa Awards in Paris for his heirloom criollo grown in Barangay Atipuluan, Bago City in Negros.
What is the current status of cacao production in the Philippines?
The Philippines is currently experiencing a resurgence in cacao production, with more and more farmers turning to cacao as a viable crop. The government has also been actively promoting cacao farming as a means of boosting the country’s agricultural sector. Chris Fadriga’s cacao nursery and plantation is just one example of the many successful cacao farms in the country.
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