The University of Northern Philippines (UNP), through the College of Business Administration and Accountancy, and its “B.U.S.I.N.E.S.S. IN THE Communities Program”, successfully conducted a training titled “Transforming Kamoteng Kahoy: Training on Innovative Production with Bulo Molders cum Turning Skills into Business Opportunities” on February 6, 2025, at the Gawad Kalinga Site, San Sebastian, San Vicente, Ilocos Sur.

This initiative, under the Kakibin ti Pagrang-ayan project, aimed to equip participants with innovative techniques in cassava processing using sustainable and locally available bulo molders. By enhancing the efficiency, quality, and marketability of cassava-based products, the program fosters creativity while integrating entrepreneurial skills development, enabling participants to transform their production capabilities into sustainable business ventures.

The training was led by the Vice President for Research and Extension, Dr. Fatima Rocamora along with the Project Coordinators, Dr. Eileen Rose Q. Paculan and Prof. May Evelia Ruadap, and Dr. Richel Royce Chan serving as an organizer. Key resource persons included Mr. Aristotle Piamonte and Ms. Karen Calaycay as trainers, while Dr. Frances Duldulao provided valuable insights as the resource speaker. The event was documented and facilitated by Ms. Deborah Jaena Reoliquio and Mr. Cedrick Tabaniag.

A total of 32 participants, including six faculty members and 25 Gawad Kalinga residents, actively engaged in the training. The implementing agencies, UEO, CBAA, and BSEntrep, collaborated with Gawad Kalinga and the local community of San Sebastian to ensure the success of the initiative.

By introducing innovative food processing methods and fostering entrepreneurial skills, this training supports sustainable livelihood opportunities, demonstrating UNP’s commitment to community development and economic empowerment.

Article by Emman Trevor Quilala, Photos by Deborah Jaena Reoliquio and Cedrick Tabaniag.