TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) – -The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Cagayan collaborated with the Cagayan State University – Food Innovation Center (FIC) to enhance the processing capabilities of Filipino ‘balikbayan’ [returning OFWs] entrepreneurs who have ventured into dragon fruit farming.
During a training session held recently, brothers Jay Israel, a former teacher in the United States of America (USA), and Irineo Israel, a software engineer also returning from the USA, owners of Amber Fields Enterprises, were taught several advanced processing techniques using FIC facilities through dehydrating dragon fruit using cabinet ovens, freeze-drying techniques, and the production of dragon fruit concentrate and juice.
The Israel brothers have invested in 17 hectares dedicated to palay and dragon fruit cultivation in Baggao, Cagayan.
DOST Cagayan Provincial Director Engr. Sylvia Lacambra said that the initiative was driven by the challenges faced by the brothers, who noted that local buyers often purchase dragon fruit at significantly reduced prices during peak harvest seasons.
Lacambra added that by diversifying their product range through value-added processing, the DOST aims to stabilize their income and create year-round employment opportunities for local farmers beyond the harvest season.
“They actively engaged in the training, drawing upon their expertise and experiences abroad to optimize production techniques and quality standards. Their commitment to sustainability and community welfare was evident as they explored methods to enhance dragon fruit products’ nutritional value and shelf life, catering to local and international markets,” Lacambra said.
“The collaboration between the PSTO Cagayan and DOST-CSU Food Innovation Center underscores the government’s dedication to supporting innovation and empowering returning Filipino entrepreneurs. By equipping them with advanced processing skills, the training aims to foster economic resilience and promote sustainable practices in dragon fruit farming,” she added. (OTB/MDCT/With reports from DOST Cagayan/PIA Cagayan)
