DOST-Batangas, DSWD equip potential exiting 4Ps beneficiaries in Balayan with food safety skills

 DOST-Batangas, DSWD equip potential exiting 4Ps beneficiaries in Balayan with food safety skills 

To support the livelihood transition of potential exiting Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)–Batangas, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 4Ps, conducted a seminar on Basic Food Hygiene and Food Safety Hazards at the covered court of Barangay Caloocan, Balayan, Batangas, January 28.

The activity forms part of a pilot collaboration between DOST-Batangas and DSWD 4Ps to provide capacity-building interventions for beneficiaries preparing to exit the program, particularly those engaged in small-scale food businesses or home-based food preparation.

The session on Basic Food Hygiene discussed essential food safety practices, including sanitary permits and health certificates, food quality and protection, primary production, and the proper design of food facilities and equipment. The discussion also emphasized personnel training and competence, establishment maintenance, cleaning and disinfection procedures, and pest control to prevent food contamination.

Personal hygiene, operational control, and consumer awareness on product information were likewise covered. Participants were oriented on the key provisions of Presidential Decree No. 856, which sets sanitary and hygienic standards for public establishments and food handlers.

The second module, Food Safety Hazards, focused on identifying and managing risks in food processing. Topics included the three major types of food hazards: physical, biological, and chemical, and the corresponding control measures needed to minimize food safety risks and ensure the safety of food served to consumers.

Members of the DOST-Batangas Food Safety Team, Mr. Mhark Ellgine A. Libao and Mr. John Maico M. Hernandez, facilitated the seminar. They also introduced other programs and services of DOST-Batangas that participants may access to support the improvement and compliance of their food-related livelihood activities.

Through this initiative, DOST-Batangas and DSWD 4Ps continue to strengthen inter-agency efforts to equip potential exiting beneficiaries with practical skills and knowledge that support food safety, livelihood sustainability, and community well-being.(John Maico M. Hernandez)