The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team recently embarked on a site visit to San Antonio, Boljoon, to oversee the progress of the “From Farm to Market: Co-creating the Cinnamon Industry in Cebu” project.

During the visit, Camille Rivera-Argana, Supervising Economic Development Specialist, along with the NEDA’s Innovation Fund Management Division (IFMD) team, engaged in constructive discussions with key officials of Barangay San Antonio and the San Antonio Farmers’ Association to address the challenges and opportunities associated with the project. The team also conducted a courtesy visit to the Office of the Mayor of the Local Government of Boljoon.

The Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team proceeded to Alegria to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the site designated for the future Cinnamon facility. Engaging in discussions with Mayor Hon. Dr. Gilberto F. Magallon, Vice Mayor Verns Magallon, and other local government officials, they aimed to ensure full compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements.

The Local Government of Alegria has generously allocated 5 hectares of land to CNU for the establishment of the CNU-Alegria Campus, reserving a portion of the donated land for the construction of the Cinnamon Processing facility. Once operational, the facility will have the capacity to process the produce of Boljoon and Alegria, as well as that of their neighboring municipalities.

The thorough monitoring and evaluation conducted by the NEDA team exemplify their dedication to ensuring the successful implementation of the Cebu Cinnamon Industry project and their commitment to the welfare of local communities.