
Photographs courtesy of Auro Chocolate Cacao harvesters.

David dela Serna (Auro Partner farmer).

Dela Serna farm workers.
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Auro Chocolate proudly celebrates another global milestone as it once again earns recognition at the prestigious Cacao of Excellence Awards, securing a spot among the Top 50 Best Cacao Beans in the World. This marks Auro’s third win, each distinction representing a different Filipino cacao origin, and further solidifying the Philippines’ place in the world of fine chocolate.
Cacao of Excellence is the most distinguished global cacao competition that gives recognition to the work of cacao farmers and honors the diverse flavors and quality of cacao produced all over the world. This year, they received 191 cacao bean samples from 45 origins around the world.
The recognition honors the exceptional beans cultivated by Auro Chocolate’s partner farmer, David Dela Serna of Barangay Tacunan, Tugbok District, Davao City. Through years of close collaboration, Auro and Dela Serna have worked together to preserve and continuously improve cacao quality, upholding sustainability, traceability, and craftsmanship at every stage of the process.
Auro Chocolate’s consistent success across multiple origins underscores the strength of its direct-trade partnerships and its dedication to empowering local farming communities. By investing in post-harvest development, farmer training and community-driven initiatives, Auro ensures that every bean meets the highest global standards while retaining its distinct Filipino flavor profile.
Winning this award for the third time is a testament not only to Auro’s pursuit of excellence but also to the resilience and talent of Filipino cacao farmers who continue to elevate the country’s reputation in the global chocolate industry.
Auro Chocolate previously won Top 50 Best Cacao Beans in 2019 and 2023, each time with different partner origins in Davao. This continued recognition reflects the depth, consistency and world-class potential of Philippine cacao.

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