DTI Guimaras, Partners Train MSMEs, Coconut Farmers on Soap, Shampoo Making

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Guimaras, in collaboration with the Provincial Office of Agricultural Services, conducted a successful two-day skills training on soap and shampoo making at the AFC Building in San Miguel, Jordan, Guimaras. The event, held on October 10-11, 2024, aimed to equip local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and coconut farmers with the knowledge to produce coconut-based personal care products.

A total of 16 participants, including MSMEs, coconut growers, and processors, participated in the hands-on training focused on creating diverse products using Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO). The initiative is expected to empower participants to improve their livelihoods by tapping into the growing demand for natural and coconut-based products.

“This activity is both a challenge and an opportunity for all participants,” said Nesgen Rhea C. Zerrudo, High-Value Crops Development Program (HVCP) Provincial Focal of DTI Guimaras. “You’re not just learning new skills, but you are also being empowered to continue this venture and potentially create a sustainable business on VCO-based soap and shampoo products.”

The training covered a wide range of VCO-based personal care products, including face and body bar soap varieties, bar shampoo, and liquid shampoo. The product line featured natural ingredients such as malunggay, aloe vera, papaya, calamansi, and oatmeal, allowing participants to explore innovative product formulations.

Lead trainer Ms. Lea Danasco guided participants through the soap and shampoo production process, emphasizing the benefits of using natural ingredients like VCO in personal care products. This hands-on experience gave attendees practical skills that can help them diversify their product offerings and increase their income.

By promoting the use of locally sourced coconut products, the training supports DTI Guimaras’ broader efforts to boost the province’s coconut industry and empower small-scale enterprises to capitalize on market trends favoring natural and organic products.