Bontoc, Mountain Province – In an exciting development for the local coffee industry in the municipality, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Aliwes Arabica Coffee Consolidation, Processing, and Marketing Enterprise took place on July 20, 2023, in Barangay Mainit.
The project aims to enhance, develop, and sustain not only the municipality’s coffee industry but also its neighboring municipalities as well as provinces. It further aims to increase the annual gross income of the enterprise as well as to provide employment to locals.
The event served as a symbolic commitment to strengthening the economic potential of the municipality and empowering coffee farmers. The Aliwes Arabica Coffee Consolidation, Processing, and Marketing Enterprise is set to have a significant impact on the local coffee industry and the livelihoods of small-scale coffee farmers.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Department of Agriculture (DA)-Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) Regional Executive Director Cameron Odsey expressed optimism about the positive impacts of the Aliwes Arabica Coffee Enterprise on the local economy and community. He emphasized that this initiative was not only about improving coffee production but also empowering farmers and fostering a sense of collective prosperity.
Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., extended his utmost appreciation to the DA-CAR for their unwavering and continuous support to the municipality.
“Today, we embark on a journey that harnesses the abundance of our natural resources, particularly the exceptional Arabica coffee that flourishes in our highlands. With this project, we aim to establish Aliwes Arabica Coffee Consolidation, Processing, and Marketing Enterprise as a regional hub for coffee production, processing, and marketing, bringing recognition to our municipality’s name far beyond our borders” he added.
Congressman Maximo Dalog, Jr., urged the beneficiaries to continue their commitment to developing and sustaining the coffee industry. He added that the event is a symbol of the community’s resilience and determination to grow, innovate, and contribute to the economic prosperity of the region.
Provincial Administrator Franklin Odsey who represented Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan, Jr., mentioned that the event is a testament and result of the unity and cooperation of the different government agencies in implementing programs towards community development.
In her message, Coffee Enterprise Manager of Aliwes Irrigation Association Rosalina Malafo expressed their enthusiasm for the project, expressing hope that it would provide them with better market access, fair prices for their produce, and improved living conditions for the recipients and their families. ** Christy Mae Che-es – Pangesfan
