Capiz local food entrepreneurs are taking a major step toward market readiness as the Food on-the-road Innovation and Processing (FoodtrIP) Project successfully conducted a specialized series on Food Safety, Packaging, and Labelling for Marketable Food Products on January 10, 2026.
The Food on-the-road Innovation and Processing (FoodtrIP) Project is a science and technology–based initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and implemented in partnership with higher education institutions, including Capiz State University (CAPSU). It aims to enhance the competitiveness of community-based food enterprises through capacity-building activities, increase access to DOST-developed food processing technologies, and the use of a mobile processing facility. The project supports inclusive and sustainable livelihood development by equipping local communities with technical knowledge in food safety, processing, packaging, and labeling to produce market-ready food products.
Hosted at the Roxas Stake Center, the initiative is a collaborative effort between the Department of Science and Technology Western Visayas (DOST Western Visayas) and Capiz State University (CAPSU). The training specifically targeted beneficiaries of the Welfare and Self-Reliance (WSR) Program, which brought together participants from Roxas City and municipalities of President Roxas, Sigma, and Panay in Capiz and from Estancia, Iloilo. The WSR Program is a global initiative that supports individuals and families in achieving self-reliance through livelihood and capacity-building programs in Capiz.
Led by Dr. Janet V. Ledesma, Associate Professor IV of CAPSU Sigma Satellite College, the training delivered technical lectures on food safety, packaging, and labeling, emphasizing the principles of compliance, innovation, and market readiness. A highlight was the introduction of DOST-developed technologies, including the vacuum-frying equipment of the FoodtrIP Project, which showcased how modern food processing tools can be applied in community-based enterprises.
For many MSMEs, the transition from home-style cooking to commercial production can be challenging. The FoodtrIP project simplifies this by providing awareness of food technologies. By directly linking technical knowledge with livelihood ideation, the training enabled participants to better appreciate how these technologies can directly support income generation and enterprise growth. This approach made the innovations highly relevant and valuable, particularly for participants who are at the early stages of their journey in food processing and entrepreneurship.
Through the FoodtrIP initiative, Capiznon food processors are doing more than just making food—they are applying essential knowledge in food safety, packaging, and labeling. With these practical competencies, they are better prepared to produce safe, high-quality, and market-ready products. By championing science and technology as drivers of inclusive growth, these local food entrepreneurs are empowered not only to succeed but also to strengthen a vibrant, innovative, and competitive food industry within their communities. (RGMCAlano, MACGregorios/DOST Capiz; Photos by: RGMCAlano)
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the country’s premiere agency for science, technology, and innovation, providing direction and leadership in the Philippines. Through strategic policies and programs, DOST ensures that S&T drives national development—delivering solutions and opportunities that maximize economic and social benefits for every Filipino.