MALITA, Davao Occidental (PIA) – Eleven small-scale agricultural producer organizations in Davao Occidental are poised to benefit from a new, innovative approach to post-harvest management.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has provided these groups with 18 sets of solar speed drying trays, known as PORTASOL, under their Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology in Support to Livelihood (CEST) program.
This cost-effective and energy-efficient technology promises to reduce post-harvest waste, extend product shelf life, and ultimately enhance market value for the farmers.
The ceremonial turnover of the PORTASOL trays took place on October 28th, during the 9th founding anniversary celebration of Davao Occidental.
Governor Franklin P. Bautista, alongside DOST officials, presented the trays to the farmer-recipients, marking a significant step towards improving agricultural practices in the region.
DOST Davao Occidental provincial director Maria Victoria Dado highlighted the significance of the technology, stating, “This intervention helps to improve productivity, income, and sustainability for local agri-fishery sectors.”
Dado explained that traditional sun drying on open pavements, a common practice in rural areas, often leads to income losses due to waste and increases the risk of food contamination.
The solar speed drying technology offers a more efficient and hygienic alternative, extending the shelf life of agricultural products and reducing the risk of contamination during the drying process.
This innovation is expected to empower small-scale farmers in Davao Occidental, enabling them to enhance their post-harvest practices and improve their livelihoods.
She said that aside from technology transfer, part of the package of the program is providing training and capacity building to farmers and extension workers to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills required to use the technology.
She added that they will regularly monitor and evaluate the impact of the technology on the shelf-life and quality of the farmers’ agricultural products. (PIA Davao Occidental)
