DTI Iloilo preps 28 food MSMEs for FDA compliance

ILOILO CITY — The Department of Trade and Industry Iloilo Provincial Office conducted the first batch of its Basics of Food Safety and Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures seminar for 28 micro, small, and medium enterprises in the processed fruits and nuts industry.

The activity is part of DTI Iloilo’s continuing effort to strengthen the capabilities of local food processors and prepare them for regulatory compliance.

Johanna C. Jamero, a professional food technologist at the University of the Philippines Visayas, facilitated the seminar as the resource speaker.

Jamero discussed food safety principles, sanitation procedures, and good manufacturing practices, emphasizing the importance of producing safe, high-quality food products that meet national standards.

As the first batch in a planned training series, the seminar serves as a preparatory step for MSMEs seeking a Food and Drug Administration license to operate, or LTO.

Participants learned practical food safety measures designed to improve production processes, protect consumers, and increase the marketability of their products.

An FDA LTO authorizes a food establishment to conduct specified regulated activities, including manufacturing, importation, exportation, sale, and distribution.

DTI has also urged MSMEs selling regulated products, including prepackaged processed foods, to obtain applicable FDA licenses and registrations to support consumer safety and product quality.

DTI Iloilo plans to conduct succeeding batches so more processed food MSMEs can benefit from the program.

Through the initiative, the agency aims to promote food safety, regulatory compliance, and industry competitiveness while supporting the sustainable growth of Iloilo’s processed food sector.