The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Davao Occidental, Philippines, has launched a banana chips processing project for a farmers' cooperative in Malita town. The initiative aims to bolster the local banana processing sector.
In collaboration with government agencies, the DTI inaugurated a Shared Service Facility (SSF) for Banana Chips Processing at Sitio Malaway, Barangay Kinangan. This facility offers modern equipment and technical support to the Malaway Farmers Marketing Cooperative (MAFAMCO), enabling agrarian reform beneficiaries and agripreneurs to improve production efficiency and product quality.
According to Candido H. Limikid, DTI Davao Occidental program manager, the facility is equipped with advanced slicing, frying, and packaging machinery. Limikid stated, "This facility will enhance value-added processing, reduce post-harvest losses, and position local banana products as competitive offerings in both domestic and international markets."
The project aligns with government objectives to promote rural industrialization and support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Davao Occidental. Limikid acknowledged the role of partner agencies in assisting MSMEs through training, financial aid, and business development services.
Partner agencies include the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Provincial Cooperative Development Office (PCDO), and the Provincial Economic Enterprises and Investment Promotion Office (PEEIPO).
Source: PIA