The ninth batch of the Technical Briefing on Minimizing Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbon and Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbon (MOSH-MOAH) in Coconut Processing was successfully conducted on April 30, 2026. Held at the Department of Agriculture XII Balindog Research and Experiment Station in Kidapawan City, Cotabato, the specialized training gathered local coconut farmers, processors, and industry stakeholders to address critical food safety and chemical compliance standards.

OIC Center Director Dr. Jessie V. Beldia officially opened the program, highlighting that keeping up with rigorous food safety standards is essential for protecting consumer health and maintaining the market integrity of local coconut products. Following his address, Alyssa Marie Ilustrisimo, Technical Staff IV of the Agricultural Training Institute XII, presented an operational overview of the briefing, detailing how mitigating chemical contaminants directly impacts the economic value of agricultural exports.

The technical lectures were delivered by industry expert Marjurie G. Jalipa, who provided a comprehensive analysis of MOSH-MOAH contamination pathways. She identified the primary points of vulnerability during post-harvest handling and manufacturing—such as the use of non-food-grade lubricants in processing machinery, contaminated packaging materials, and improper drying exposure—and outlined practical, preventative measures to eliminate these risks.

By educating local processors on these sophisticated food safety parameters, the briefing plays a vital role in upgrading the quality assurance protocols of the regional coconut sector. Understanding and implementing these preventative controls helps local enterprises protect their yields, comply with strict international trade regulations, and position premium Philippine coconut commodities competitively in both domestic and global markets.