GROUP B Members:

Abejero Bulabon Enriquez Rizon

Alagao Desor Mesahon Sasil

Group Activity 2 : SOCIAL ENTERPRISES IN THE PHILIPPINES

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE: AURO Chocolate PH

HISTORY/BACKGROUND

Auro Chocolate is a Philippine social enterprise that has successfully taken its operations global. Founded
by Mark Ocampo and Kelly Go, the start up’s sustainably farmed, single-origin cacao beans are used for
its own chocolate as well as other brands' products Auro currently supplies chocolate to companies in 33
countries worldwide. Mark Ocampo and Kelly Go's journey into the world of chocolate-making began
when they participated in a cacao-growing program in the Philippines. They recognized the potential of
Philippine cacao beans and decided to venture into the chocolate industry to promote the country's cacao
and support local farmers.

Auro Chocolate is known for its commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. They work directly with
farmers, providing them with fair wages and promoting responsible farming methods. This direct trade
approach ensures that the cacao beans used in their chocolate bars are of the highest quality. Over the
years, Auro Chocolate has gained recognition both locally and internationally for its premium chocolate
products. They have won numerous awards for their bars, which are made with single-origin cacao beans
from various regions in the Philippines. Auro Chocolate offers a range of chocolate bars with different
cacao percentages and unique flavor profiles, showcasing the diversity of Philippine cacao.

The company's dedication to quality, sustainability, and supporting local communities has helped it
become a prominent player in the Philippine chocolate industry and a symbol of excellence in bean-to-bar
chocolate production.

THE SOCIAL PROBLEM THEY OUGHT TO IMPACT

Auro Chocolate PH aims to address several social problems through their initiatives:

1. Poverty in farming communities: Auro Chocolate works directly with local farmers, providing them
with fair compensation for their cacao beans. This helps to improve the livelihoods of these farmers, who
often face economic challenges due to low wages and limited access to markets. By supporting farmers
and investing in their communities, Auro Chocolate aims to alleviate poverty and create sustainable
income opportunities.

2. Limited market access for Filipino cacao farmers: Auro Chocolate aims to promote the growth of the
local cacao industry by providing market access to farmers. Through direct trade relationships, they
ensure fair prices for the cacao beans, reducing the reliance of farmers on middlemen or intermediaries.
This enables farmers to earn a better income and encourages the continued cultivation of high-quality
cacao.
3. Lack of education and training in sustainable agricultural practices: Auro Chocolate provides training
and resources to farmers, helping them develop sustainable farming techniques and improve the quality of
their cacao beans. By sharing knowledge and best practices, Auro Chocolate contributes to the long-term
viability of the cacao industry and promotes environmentally friendly farming methods.

4. Limited recognition of the Philippines as a producer of fine flavor cacao: Auro Chocolate aims to put
the Philippines on the map as a producer of premium cacao beans and high-quality chocolate. By
showcasing the unique flavors and characteristics of Filipino cacao, they seek to elevate the reputation of
Philippine chocolate both locally and internationally. This recognition can contribute to increased market
demand and opportunities for Filipino cacao farmers.

Through these efforts, Auro Chocolate PH aims to create positive social impact by empowering farmers,
promoting sustainable agriculture, and elevating the status of Filipino cacao and chocolate on a global
scale.

WHAT PRODUCTS/SERVICES DO THEY OFFER?

(PLEASE INPUT HERE KYLE AND VINCE)

HOW DO THEY CONDUCT THEIR BUSINESS/ACTIVITIES?

1. Conducts a geographic evaluation of the raw materials and their supply chain.

2. Implements strict protocols to ensure that only mature cacao pods are harvested.

3. Sources its cacao beans directly from Filipino farmers, ensuring fair and sustainable practices.

4. Actively participates in capacity-building and training programs for farmers to improve the
quality and productivity of their cacao.

5. Embraced advances in agricultural management practices such as high-density, unshaded,

monoculture cacao plantations.