NORTHERN MINDANAO – Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 10 and University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines-Cagayan de Oro (USTP-CDO) inked an agreement on technical cooperation for the upcoming National Processed Fruits and Nuts (PFN) Trail Mix Competition in SM Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City on July 13, 2023.

The National PFN Trail Mix Competition is a pilot activity initiated by DTI-10, as the PFN-National Industry Cluster Coordinator (NICC). The initiative is implemented under the Philippine Food Enterprise Advancement through Sustainable Technologies (PhilFEAST) Program.

It is intended to promote locally sourced fruits and nuts with possible introduction to the export market; develop fruits and nuts trail mix product; contribute to the sustainability of the fruits and nuts farming venture, thereby helping local farmers; and provide a stimulant in the fruits and nuts industry to promote its marketability and sustainability.

As part of the preparations for the national competition, DTI-10 signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with USTP-CDO Campus, being one of its partners in the development and promotion of program for MSMEs.

Under the MOA, USTP-CDO will provide technical expertise on designing and drafting competition mechanics, guidelines, and product evaluation rubrics throughs its faculty members in the College of Science and Mathematics, in particular the Department of Food Science and Technology (DFST).

The USTP team, composed of four technical members, will also assist in the preparation of the venue and facilitation of the competition proper.

Meanwhile, DTI-10 will provide the needed information and materials and technical resources for the conduct of the event.

The MOA was signed by DTI-10 Regional Director Ermedio J. Abang and USTP-CDO Chancellor, Atty. Dionel O. Albina. ♦

Date of Release: 7 July 2023