FLORA, Apayao – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Apayao, through its Shared Service Facility (SSF) Program, recently turned over the SSF on Fruit and Vegetable Processing amounting of PhP692,000 on September 2, 2024 in Bagutong, Flora.
The shared service facility benefits the Bagutong Flora Farmers and Irrigators Association Inc. (BFFIA) who are the co-operator of the project as a means to aid farmers in adding value to their produce and by creating new products.
DTI Apayao Provincial Director Engr. Wena M. Buston, during the turn-over ceremony, provided an overview of the SSF project, highlighting its goal to enhance productivity that translates to bigger income and the generation of jobs in the community.
Buston emphasized that the facility is designed to be shared with other food processors in the community, fostering collaboration and growth. She further urged the association to maintain consistency and quality in their products to establish their market niche.
Meantime, Barangay Captain Nestor C. Apostol, expressed his gratitude to DTI-Apayao and the leaders of the municipality and province for their support, while giving his warm welcome to the participants and guests to the event.
Flora Mayor Rodolfo B. Juan, in his talk to the members of the recipient association, underscored the importance of love for the facility given to them. “I hope that by loving the gift given to you… that love will nurture unity and mutual respect among you which in turn will lead to the success of your association,” said Juan.
Juan also gave his commitment, promising the municipal will be one of their big markets for their products and encouraged the group to focus on expanding local market reach.
Apayao Congress representative, Hon. Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang, represented by Marinel J. Ginez, on the other hand reminded the beneficiaries and challenged the association to ensure the sustainability of the project by assuring source of their raw materials, maintaining the quality of their products, and working in harmony to achieve their goals.
Support for the project was further amplified by representatives from various agencies, including Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Department of Agrarian Reform, who expressed their commitment to help the association increase production and enhance their skills in producing quality products through their own programs.
In her acceptance speech, BFFIA President Virginia Echiverri said she and all members of the association are grateful for being selected as the SSF beneficiary. She pledged that BFFIA will make full use of the equipment to boost production and support the association’s growth. BFFIA Vice President Leonardo Medrano Jr. also assured that the facility will be managed responsibly and effectively.
The SSF program is a flagship initiative of the DTI aimed at bolstering the productivity and efficiency of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
By providing access to advanced technology, the program helps MSMEs enhance their competitiveness through shared resources, including machinery, equipment, and training. This initiative not only improves production capabilities but also empowers local entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge necessary for sustainable growth. By Michelle Acantilado
