PERG Empowers Market Vendors with Food Safety and Waste Management Workshop

The CTU-Barili Production, Extension, and Resource Generation (PERG), in partnership with LGU Barili, took the lead in organizing a comprehensive training workshop on ‘Ensuring Food Safety and Sustainable Waste Management.’ The event occurred from May 16 to May 18, 2023, at the Barili Public Market in Poblacion Barili, Cebu.

This workshop targeted vendors operating within the public market, focusing on fruit and vegetable sellers. The esteemed speakers for the occasion were Prof. Danny E. Carabio, the Director of PERG, and Ms. Joanna Christine A. Salinasal, a Research Assistant.

Prof. Carabio enlightened participants about Republic Act 9003, establishing an Ecological Solid Waste Management program. He conducted a demonstration on Solid Waste Management, utilizing food processing waste as an illustrative example. Meanwhile, Ms. Salinasal provided valuable insights into food safety practices aimed at ensuring safer food consumption. She demonstrated the preparation of bleach sanitizing solutions and highlighted the practical application of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

In addition, she led a hands-on training session on processing pickled green leafy vegetables and mango jam. Furthermore, Ms. Salinasal emphasized the importance of wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and demonstrated the proper usage to ensure safety and hygiene.

Dr. Pet Roey L. Pascual, the PERG-Special Projects Chairman, and Ms. Nonna Faith Abello, a Research Assistant, supported the speakers throughout the workshop.

This activity is part of the campus’s commitment to expanding community engagement through production and extension. By equipping market vendors with essential knowledge and skills in food safety and waste management, PERG aims to foster a culture of responsible practices that ensure the well-being of both consumers and the environment. The collaborative effort between CTU-Barili and LGU Barili underscores the commitment to creating a thriving, sustainable community.

Words by Ivy Dematawaran