19/05/2026
Batangas State University ARASOF-Nasugbu shares food processing expertise in Sto. Tomas City livelihood training
Batangas State University ARASOF-Nasugbu, through its Professional Food Technologists, took part in a livelihood-oriented food processing training organized in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Batangas and the City Government of Sto. Tomas on May 14 in Sto. Tomas City, Batangas.
The training was conducted for job order employees of the local government unit and focused on practical food processing technologies using locally available agricultural commodities. It aimed to equip participants with knowledge and hands-on skills that they may apply in developing small-scale food products for livelihood and additional income opportunities.
As part of the activity, representatives from DOST-Batangas, Ms. Anna Marie Marasigan a Professional Food Technologist first introduced the participants to basic food hygiene and food safety practices. The discussion emphasized the importance of personal hygiene, proper handling of raw materials, sanitation, contamination prevention, and safe food preparation procedures to ensure the production of quality and safe food products.
Following the seminar, the technology training proper was facilitated by Professional Food Technologists from Batangas State University ARASOF-Nasugbu. Mr. Ronie Baclas led the lecture and demonstration on kamias candy processing, while Mr. Noriel Soriano handled the session on mixed vegetable pickling processing. Their discussions covered the step-by-step procedures, proper preparation of ingredients, processing techniques, packaging considerations, and storage practices necessary to improve product quality and extend shelf life.
Beyond the technical demonstrations, the BatStateU ARASOF-Nasugbu resource speakers also highlighted the value of food processing as a way to maximize local produce and transform common agricultural materials into marketable food products. Through this, participants were introduced to simple but practical technologies that may support household-based or community-level livelihood initiatives.
The participants later engaged in actual hands-on processing of kamias candy and mixed vegetable pickles under the supervision of the trainers. This allowed them to apply the concepts discussed during the lectures, from preparing raw materials to processing and packaging the finished products.
Through the involvement of Batangas State University ARASOF-Nasugbu, the activity strengthened the university’s commitment to community extension, technology transfer, and livelihood development. By sharing its expertise in food technology, the university continues to support initiatives that promote food safety awareness, local resource utilization, and sustainable income-generating opportunities for communities.