DOST-I boosts Laoag Mango Industry with Native Mango Processing Training
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region I, through the Provincial Science and Technology Ilocos Norte (PSTO-IN), in partnership with the Office of the City Agriculturist of Laoag, successfully conducted a training on Native Mango Processing on 04 May 2023, in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. The primary goal of the event was to enhance the knowledge and skills of the Laoag Mango Growers Association Inc. in processing mangoes and turning them into profitable products.
The training was attended by 27 members of the association and equipped them with the necessary knowledge and skills for mango processing. The resource speakers, who were from Mariano Marcos State University, discussed various topics related to the mango processing industry. The six-part training included topics such as Good Manufacturing Practices and Food Safety, Overview of Mango Processing, hands-on training on making Mango Jam and Mango Candy, Packaging and Labeling, Marketing Skills, and Simple Bookkeeping. The participants were able to learn the step-by-step process of making mango products and were taught how to package, label, market, and keep track of their expenses and income to ensure the sustainability of their business.
Ms. Fairie Anne Domingo, one of the resource speakers, mentioned during the training that the original program solely focused on the techniques of processing mangoes. However, to provide a more comprehensive learning experience, they integrated different lectures. Engr. Shiela Marie N. Opelac, CGDH I, City Agriculturist, reminded the participants to continue practicing and sustaining the knowledge they acquired to help them establish a successful mango processing business. With the new knowledge and skills they acquired, the Laoag Mango Growers Association Inc. is expected to boost their production and contribute to the growth of the local mango industry.
The training was a success, with the participants gaining valuable knowledge and skills that will help them produce high-quality mango products and increase their income. The DOST-I hopes to conduct more training programs like this to help the local farmers and boost the agriculture industry in the region. (By Sheeren Joy N. Engada, DOST-I)
