The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has set up seaweeds post-harvest facility in Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte.
DOST Secretary Fortunato “Boy” T. de la Peña said DOST-X provided assistance to Simbuco Aqua Marine Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SAMMPC) through the turnover of the following technologies: stainless steel table, stainless steel sink, mechanical dryer/dehydrator, herb and spice grinder, deep fryer, and moisture meter.
The technologies were provided to the SAMMPC on July 14.
“The post-harvest facility in Kolambugan, Lanao Del Norte, significantly improves the position of the municipality to be a major seaweed producer in Northern Mindanao,” de la Peña said in a report.
Since 1993, SAMMPC has been registered with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). Currently, the cooperative has a total of 189 active members. Of this, 166 are seaweed farmers/growers with a total aggregate area of 88 hectares, de la Peña noted.
Moreover, the DOST-X is also expected “to provide training on food safety and good manufacturing practices to assist the cooperative members in producing quality products that have potential for wide markets and exports.”
The DOST chief said the assistance worth P450,000 will be extended to the SAMMPC members.