In a bid to enhance food safety and production standards, 39 members of Lanao del Norte’s Small Banisilon Farmers Association underwent training facilitated by the Department of Science and Technology—X (DOST-X). Conducted on September 26, 2024, at Tangcal’s Small Banisilon Gymnasium, this initiative aimed at bolstering product quality and adhering to rigorous manufacturing protocols.
This specialized training forms part of efforts to improve the handling of products like bottled chili garlic, dried chilis, and virgin coconut oil. By tackling critical concerns such as food hazard identification and optimized production layouts, the session sought to equip farmers with modern practices in alignment with regulatory standards. “Food safety is crucial for enhancing our products’ market value,” reflected Carion M. Mapandi, President of the association, underscoring the training’s role in fostering sustainable livelihoods.
Beyond theoretical aspects, DOST-X offered practical support by advising on plant layout optimization, which is vital for maximizing production efficiency. Ashary Sanguilingan, DA-SAAD Focal Person, remarked on the training’s potential to evolve these farmers into a thriving community-based enterprise. He emphasized that such empowerment opens doors to broader opportunities, linking local agricultural efforts to larger economic frameworks.
Significantly, this program supports Sustainable Development Goal 2.3, aspiring to double small-scale producers’ productivity and income by 2030. This endeavor not only promises enhanced food safety but also positions local farmers as a pivotal force in adopting sustainable agricultural practices.
