BENGUET, Philippines — The Provincial Government of Benguet, led by Governor Melchor Daguines Diclas, recognized the top placers of the Benguet Coffee-Cacao Quality Competition held in March 2026, during the flag raising ceremony on Monday, April 13, at the Provincial Capitol.

Rodelio B. Carame of La Trinidad emerged as champion in the Coffee Category, while Marcial M. Compala of Sablan secured first place in the Cacao category.

The competition, conducted in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-Baguio Benguet), evaluated participants through a rigorous process that included coffee and cacao bean grading, coffee roasting, and cupping and tasting sessions to determine quality and excellence.

In the Coffee Category, Veronica D. Catalino of Kapangan placed second, followed by Merced J. Manis of Tublay in third place.

Meanwhile, in the Cacao division, Diony C. Bitayan of Kapangan took second place, while Tresia J. Sabino of Tublay finished third.

Governor Diclas congratulated all winners, expressing optimism for increased funding for the competition in the coming years to further strengthen Benguet’s coffee and cacao industries.

Also present during the awarding ceremony were members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, including Board Members Thomas K. Wales Jr., Neptali B. Camsol, Romeo K. Salda, Lady Charmaine S. Molintas-Likigan, Ruben L. Tinda-an, Reachelle C. Takinan-Balagsa, Armando I. Lauro, Alexander T. Fianza, Johannes A. Amuasen, and Benjamin G. Palbusa, Oliver K. Paus, along with Provincial Agriculturist Delinia D. Juan and representatives from DTI- Baguio Benguet.