On September 4, 2023, FDA Philippines Launches Bagong Negosyante Program in Calamba, Laguna a landmark collaboration unfolded at the National University Laguna Campus, as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in partnership with the City Government of Calamba, Provincial Government of Laguna, and the Association of Laguna Food Processors Inc. (ALAFOP), launched the Bagong Negosyante Program.
The Bagong Negosyante Program represents a significant initiative aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and ensuring the safe and compliant operation of food-related businesses such as the MSME’s sector in the province. This cooperative effort brings together the expertise and resources of multiple stakeholders to empower local entrepreneurs and facilitate their entry into the food industry.
Key figures in attendance included FDA Policy and Planning Service OIC Director Dr. Irene Florentino-Fariñas, who underscored the program’s importance in ensuring food safety and quality standards. Regional Field Office – South Luzon Cluster Director Arnold Alindada gave the Welcome Remarks on behalf of the FDA Director General Dr. Samuel A. Zacate.
Dr. Leonardo F. Opulencia Sr., Department Head of Cooperatives and Livelihood Development, emphasized the program’s role in fostering economic growth within the community.
The Managing Director of National University Laguna, Benjamin F. Uichico, expressed his institution’s commitment to supporting educational and skill development initiatives like the Bagong Negosyante Program, which aligns with the university’s mission to contribute to local economic development.
Jerry Urriquia, President of ALAFOP, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in promoting the growth of the local food industry. ALAFOP’s involvement in the program underscores its dedication to fostering best practices among food processors in Laguna.
The highlight of the event was the conduct of a comprehensive Training on Licensing, Registration, and Good Manufacturing Practices. This training is designed to equip aspiring and existing entrepreneurs in the food industry with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate regulatory requirements and ensure the production of safe and high-quality food products.
An overwhelming eighty-seven (87) MSME’s, start-up and business owners from Calamba City, San Pablo City, Santa Rosa City, Binan City, Cabuyao City, Bay, Calauan, Liliw, Los Baños, Lumban, Nagcarlan, Pagsanjan, Pila, and Rizal participated in the training program of FDA.
The Bagong Negosyante Program launch marks a significant step towards creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship and ensuring the safety and quality of food products. It reflects the commitment of multiple stakeholders to support local businesses and promote economic development in the province specifically in the city of Calamba. The two- day training component of the program promises to empower a new generation of food entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed in the industry while upholding the highest standards of safety and quality.
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