CAMIGUIN (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) trained the Owakan Multipurpose Cooperative's turmeric producers on food safety and current good manufacturing practices, as requested and organized by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Owakan, Mahinog, Camiguin.

The two-day training was organized to upskill the attendees and prepare their cooperative for the application for a license to operate from the Food and Drug Administration.

Troy Anthony A. Omol, a science research specialist at DOST Camiguin, served as the resource speaker, covering topics such as basic food hygiene, food hazards, and current good manufacturing practices. Omol highlighted the significance of implementing proper food processing standards, highlighting, "Food safety is everybody’s responsibility."

A total of 13 turmeric processors from various parts of the island, including 9 females, 4 males, and 6 senior citizens, attended the training. The attendees actively participated in the training sessions, understanding the importance of professional growth and adherence to food safety standards.

Eliaquem Arnulfo Jamero, chair of Owakan Multipurpose Cooperative, expressed gratitude for the training initiative and reiterated the cooperative's commitment to maintaining hygienic workspaces. He emphasized the importance of applying safety protocols in turmeric production for both the group and its products.

“Dako kaayo akoang pasalamat sa tanang nag-facilitate sa ani na training, then about sa training naka-enlighten gid kaayo ni sa amoang grupo ug ma-apply ang mga safety protocols sa atoang turmeric production. Kung concern man gani ta sa atoang kaugalingon, how much more sa atoang produkto?” Jamero asserted.

(I am very grateful to the facilitators of this training; this training has enlightened our group, and this will be applied to our safety protocols in our turmeric production. If we are concerned about ourselves, how much more for our products?)

He added that in their processing endeavors, individuals must consistently adhere to the highest standards and maintain a positive outlook, as positivity plays a significant role in their success. It is a reflection of an organization's character, and its success is also dependent on the character it embodies.

Sharon A. Mawile, agrarian reform program officer of DAR Camiguin, commended the training and emphasized the importance of upholding quality standards in food production. She underscored the role of positivity in achieving success and shaping organizational character.

The training included sessions on product development by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), followed by food safety and cGMP training by DOST.

The training session guided the cooperative towards safer and more efficient turmeric production, ensuring both personnel and product safety. By staying informed about advancements in food safety and adhering to cGMP, the cooperative aims to exceed industry standards and foster consumer trust in its products.

DOST Camiguin continues to offer free food safety and cGMP training for businesses in the food industry, further enhancing production processes and ensuring the production of safe and secure food products. (DOST Camiguin/PIA-10/Camiguin)