VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) –– Two small businesses in Ilocos Sur are poised for growth after receiving new equipment from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).
SETUP helps micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) improve operations by providing modern equipment, training and expert advice to enhance competitiveness.
Ora East Rice Mill will receive a 15-ton mechanical dryer with a built-in furnace worth P2.072 million, and The Sisters Royal Bibingka and Food Products will get a rotary rack oven worth P1.539 million.
DOST Ilocos Sur said the support will help the businesses increase production, improve quality and reach more customers.
Both businesses, located in Bantay town, will also receive Technical Assistance and Consultancy Services (TACS) and training from DOST.
Resina Toje, owner of Ora East Rice Mill, said in a March 13 phone interview that the new dryer is timely, especially with the approaching rainy season.
“With this machine, we expect to see an increase in income as other rice mills in our municipality will also come to use the dryer. I can now ensure that no rice grains will be damaged,” she said.
She said that last year, she had to travel to other towns to dry her rice, which was costly and inconvenient. Sometimes, dryers were unavailable, causing her rice to spoil.
After learning about SETUP from other businesses, Toje and her husband decided to pay for the equipment in monthly installments over three years. This allows them to use their capital for other business needs.
“Right now, we are preparing the space for the dryer, and we expect it to arrive this month or next. I hope this machine will help us save more and pay it off quickly,” Toje added.
Before the official signing March 5, DOST Ilocos Sur Provincial Director Jordan Abad explained the agreement, including monthly monitoring to track improvements in sales, jobs, production and market expansion.
DOST continues to support small businesses in Ilocos Sur, helping them grow and compete. Since 2020, 52 businesses in the province have benefited from SETUP. (CCMT/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)
