On February 15, 2024, the Department of Science and Technology VI (DOST VI) Negros Occidental Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) partnered with the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental (PGNO), led by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and supported by Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II, Provincial Administrator through the Technology and Livelihood Development Center (TLDC), to conduct their first-ever Public Training Course: “Food Safety 101: Basic Food Safety for Food Manufacturers.” Held at the PGNO TLDC Training Room in Bacolod City, the initiative aimed to empower local food processors with knowledge and practices for cleaner and safer food production.

Thirty (30) participants representing diverse food businesses – from empanada and peanut butter makers to cake bakers and kakanin specialists – gained valuable insights from the resource persons from Negros Occidental PSTO, Ms. Ellin Grace V. Andana, Science Research Specialist I and Engr. Fedi Marie C. Lima, Senior Science Research Specialist. Interactive activities and assessments helped participants solidify their understanding and apply the learned principles to their specific businesses.

Furthermore, Engr. Wells Ruud T. Lego, Project Technical Assistant I from the Negros Occidental PSTO, provided an orientation on Packaging and Mandatory Labeling requirements.

By equipping local food manufacturers with essential food safety and labeling knowledge, the training program plays a critical role in enhancing food quality and safety for Negros Occidental’s consumers. (JMNTingson, FMCLima/Negros Occidental PSTO)