On July 17-18, 2023, the Guimaras State University (GSU) Graduate School extended its commitment to community development by conducting a two-day Food Processing Skills Training at the Bethlehem Foursquare Gospel Church in Cabano, San Lorenzo, Guimaras. This initiative aimed to empower local residents with valuable food processing skills, aligning with the university’s extension objectives of fostering sustainable livelihoods and supporting local economic growth.
A total of 39 active church members participated in the training, which opened with a session led by Dr. Margie Y. Dela Cruz, the GSU Community Extension Director. Dr. Dela Cruz emphasized the importance of food safety and sanitation in preparing processed foods, ensuring that participants understood the standards needed for quality and safe food production.
Training Highlights
The first day featured demonstrations by Dr. Dela Cruz and Ms. Janarie Rose Sayat, who guided participants through the preparation of popular food items such as Molo Balls, Pork Siomai, and Beef Tapa. These sessions allowed participants to observe professional techniques and gain hands-on experience in food processing.
Day two focused on additional skills training, with demonstrations on preparing Pork Tocino and Pork Longganisa, as well as packaging techniques for all the processed products. Instructor Gilbert Amistas also delivered a lecture and demonstration on Salted Egg Making, further diversifying the skill set provided to the participants.
More Moments from the Event
The training was well-received, equipping attendees with practical skills that could be used for both home-based consumption and income generation. This initiative reflects GSU Graduate School’s dedication to community development and aligns with the broader Sustainable Development Goal 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, by supporting skills development and promoting economic opportunities within the local community.
