San Joaquin farmers learn to turn surplus produce into profit

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Farmers from the San Isidro Labrador Farmers Association in Barangay Pitogo, San Joaquin, Iloilo gained new skills to transform their harvests into marketable products during a Business Opportunities and Value-Adding for High-Value Crops training organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Iloilo Provincial Office – Negosyo Center San Joaquin.

Led by Elvin Secreto, participants learned practical ways to convert surplus fruits and vegetables into value-added goods such as chips, flour, and preserves — products that command higher prices in the market.

The training emphasized that processing surplus produce not only increases income but also strengthens the sustainability of local agricultural households.

The DTI Negosyo Center San Joaquin encouraged farmers to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and shared information on support services available for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Participants also received guidance on improving packaging, complying with food safety standards, and connecting with potential markets.

“Although we are surrounded by abundance, the challenge has always been the low farm gate prices for raw produce,” Secreto said. “This training gives us the tools and knowledge to turn our surplus into sustainable business opportunities.”

The farmers expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that value-adding techniques will help reduce waste and contribute to the economic growth of their community.