Aiming to strengthen the skills of 30 Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) and local farmers in reducing post-harvest losses and improving produce marketability, the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA successfully conducted a “Training on Post-Harvest Handling of Fruits and Vegetables” on March 23-27, 2026, at the Romblon State University Hostel, Odiongan, Romblon.
Through lectures, workshops, and interactive discussions guided by Ms. Roxanne M. Fabriquel, Instructor I at Mindoro State University, and Ms. Cheri Dawn F. Falogme, HVCDP Point Person at ATI-MIMAROPA, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the supply chain for locally produced fruits and vegetables, as well as the key post-harvest challenges affecting quantity, quality, and farmers’ income.
Since Romblon is composed of many islands, participants pointed out that logistics and transport are major causes of post-harvest losses in the province. The discussions also encouraged knowledge sharing, allowing participants to learn from each other and review their methods of handling, sorting, and packaging harvested crops.
Participants showed great interest in using edible or organic coatings and low-cost storage solutions, such as lining the walls of temporary storage with charcoal. The resource persons demonstrated the materials and processes that can extend shelf life and reduce spoilage, providing practical techniques for immediate application.
To complement the discussions, the participants conducted a market survey at Odiongan Public Market with assistance from the Municipal Agriculture Office. Interviews with selected producers and vendors provided firsthand insights into local crop production, transportation, market handling, and practices that contribute to post-harvest losses.
Moreover, the training emphasized food safety throughout the supply chain, including proper pesticide use, farm sanitation, personal hygiene, and post-harvest handling to minimize the risk of foodborne diseases.
Participants expressed great appreciation for the training. Mr. Ricardo L. Teodosio, President of Jacob’s Well Organic Farmers and Food Producers Association in Looc, Romblon, shared:
“Ito ang unang beses ko po na nakadalo sa ganitong training. Bagama’t marami na akong nadaluhan na seminars, ito talaga ang parang kumpletong-kumpleto. Ang mga lecture na ibinigay sa amin ay talagang very useful. Magagamit ko ito sa aming farm at sa pagbahagi ng kaalaman sa iba pang magsasaka. Kahit isang sili lang ang mabawas, makakaapekto ito sa annual production, kaya napakahalaga ng proper handling—from harvest to market. Maraming salamat po, talagang magagamit namin ito para umasenso ang aming pagsasaka.”
The training concluded with participants submitting re-entry plans to apply the techniques they had learned in their communities, aiming to improve post-harvest handling and overall agricultural productivity.
