SLSU FAST - DFoST, FOT collabs with DSWD Maasin for Enhancing Sustainable Livelihood of DSWD-SLP Beneficiaries
Last July 9–11, 2025, the Southern Leyte State University, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-Maasin), successfully implemented the extension activity titled:
“Enhancing Sustainable Livelihood of DSWD-SLP Beneficiaries: Vacuum-Fried Fruit and Vegetable Production with Training in Food Safety, Costing, Packaging, and Labeling.”
The activity was conducted in Barangay Cansirong, Maasin City, and benefitted members of the Cansirong Women’s SLPA (Sustainable Livelihood Program Association).
This three-day training was spearheaded by faculty members from the Department of Food Science and Technology (DFoST) and the Faculty of Technology. It featured a series of technical sessions on:
✅ Food Safety, GMP, and HACCP Guidelines
✅ Vacuum-Fried Fruits and Vegetables Production Techniques
✅ Product Costing, Packaging, and Labeling for Market Readiness
✅ Machine Operation for Vacuum Frying and Food Processing
The training aimed to strengthen the participants’ competencies in hygienic food production, equip them with practical processing skills using vacuum frying technology, and enhance their understanding of value-adding techniques through proper costing and compliance with packaging and labeling standards. The inclusion of machine operation allowed the participants to gain hands-on experience in using vacuum fryers and related equipment essential for scalable food production.
Key resource persons included Dr. Vernabelle L. Balmori, Mr. Omar D. Alo, Mr. June Marlou Evale, and Mr. Nestor Calva.
This extension activity significantly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By equipping women beneficiaries with practical skills and food processing technologies, the project promotes inclusive and sustainable livelihood opportunities, enhances food security through value-added production, and fosters gender-responsive entrepreneurship. The initiative aligns with the University’s commitment to community development and inclusive economic empowerment in rural areas.
Through this project, SLSU and DSWD-Maasin aim to empower marginalized communities by bridging the gap between academic knowledge and grassroots development—enabling women-led microenterprises to thrive through technology-driven livelihood solutions.
