Philippine chocolate maker Cacao Culture is marking its 10th year with the launch of the 8.8 Chocolate Festival, a month-long celebration aimed at increasing consumer interest in locally made chocolate while providing a platform for cacao growers and chocolate makers. Founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife entrepreneurs Kenneth and Shiela Reyes-Lao, Cacao Culture began as a cacao seedling nursery after the couple moved from Manila to Davao City. The company will hold its first 8.8 Chocolate Festival on August 8, with activities and promotions running throughout August. The festival will feature Cacao Culture’s own products alongside offerings from other Philippine chocolate makers, including Auro Chocolate, Malagos Chocolate, Nutrarich, Cacao De Celo, Coscao Chocolate, and 1919 Chocolate. “The 8.8 Chocolate Festival gives us the opportunity to invite more people by telling them about Philippine chocolate and providing the platforms for them to taste and experience Philippine chocolates,” she said.