The Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center 1 (ATI-RTC 1), in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Mangaldan, Pangasinan, conducted the Training on Food Processing with Good Manufacturing Practices on September 6-8, 2022 at Barangay Hall, Brgy. Landas, Mangaldan, Pangasinan.
The training was in support to 20 senior citizens and members of Rural Improvement Club (RIC) from the said municipality through capacitating them with knowledge and skills on food processing and ultimately providing them with opportunities in gaining additional income.
One of the highlights of this three-day activity was the discussion on the R.A. 9994 also known as the “The Expanded Senior Citizens Act” with Mr. Joel Ramos from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office of LGU-Mangaldan as the resource person. Mr. Ramos cited the salient features of this Act and he mentioned the rights and privileges of the senior citizens.
Following the lecture and presentation on the theoretical principles on food processing, Ms. Dominga A. Fawayan, Home Management Specialist II from the Provincial Agriculture Office of Pangasinan, demonstrated the procedures on how to process different products out of pork. Among the products made were embutido, siomai, tapa, tocino, and skinless longganisa. The participants were also trained on bangus (milkfish fish) deboning and marinating boneless fish. Ms. Fawayan emphasized the importance of Good Manufacturing Practices in engaging with these processing activities during the hands-on demonstration.
Each participant received starter kits with kitchenware and meat grinder to utilize for the start of their business in the future and as part of ensuring the sustainability of this initiative.
The provision of support to the senior citizens is a mandate that is continuously implemented by ATI. This is part of the Institute’s way of recognizing their significant contribution in the society.
