Turning food safety knowledge into better practices at MJS Foods

by Info @Brand Zone | September 3, 2026

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Photo: For MJS Foods, the knowledge gained can be applied to both its restaurant and food processing operations, helping the company strengthen its food safety practices and work toward safer, more consistent products for its customers.

For food businesses, good products begin with safe and proper practices behind every step of preparation and production.

On August 24, MJS Foods Inc. strengthened the food safety practices of its team through a Training on Food Safety and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) held at Aruma Coffee Lounge, Poblacion, Iligan City.

A total of 17 food handlers, including two owners, participated in the training. The activity is part of DOST’s continuing support to food businesses in applying safe and proper ways of handling and producing food.

The training covered common food hazards, proper food handling, personal hygiene, cleaning and sanitation, record-keeping, and Good Manufacturing Practices. These practices help businesses maintain cleaner work areas, prevent food contamination, improve consistency in production, and ensure that food is handled properly from preparation to serving or processing.

For MJS Foods, the knowledge gained can be applied to both its restaurant and food processing operations, helping the company strengthen its food safety practices and work toward safer, more consistent products for its customers.

Safer food starts with better practices. Connect with your nearest DOST Office to learn about available training and consultancy services.(DOST Lanao del Norte)

DOST Ilocos Region Backs P6.4M Tech Upgrades for Inclusive Regional Growth of MSMEs

by Info @Business News | April 24, 2026

Photo: DOST

𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗢𝗙 𝗦𝗔𝗡 𝗙𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗢, 𝗟𝗮 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻 — The Department of Science and Technology Ilocos Region (DOST Ilocos Region) awarded financial assistance to the 2nd batch of 2026 beneficiaries of the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) during a ceremony at the DOST Ilocos Region Innovation Hub on March 19, 2026. Known collectively as “Batch SIBOL” (Siyensya at Inobasyon para sa Bagong Oportunidad at Lunti-lunting Pagyabong), six cooperators received support and are set to “sprout,” embarking on a journey toward greater competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability.

Three firms from Ilocos Sur (Torres Ricemill, Melody’s Food Products, and Niks Printing Shop) collectively received ₱4,610,000.00 in financial assistance. Heisabelle Wood Works of La Union was granted ₱257,600.00, while HN Chicken Dealer and Obet Mushroom Farm in Pangasinan received a combined ₱1,549,800.00, further expanding support for MSMEs across the region.

Ms. Racquel M. Espiritu, Supervising Assistant Regional Director for SETUP, emphasized that the initiative supports long-term enterprise growth beyond financial aid. “This program is about giving our MSMEs the chance to sprout, grow, and flourish – bringing jobs, products, and services that uplift families and communities across the nation,” she stated.

Furthermore, Ms. Mary Ann B. Ofiana, Project Technical Assistant I, led the Gender Sensitivity Training, where she emphasized integrating gender perspectives and promoting equal opportunities in the workplace. This was followed by Ms. Katrina F. Ronquillo, SETUP RPMO Head, who outlined the beneficiaries’ duties as stipulated in the Memorandum of Agreement, discussed required reports, and answered participants’ questions.

Regional Director Teresita A. Tabaog congratulated the beneficiaries and emphasized the role of MSMEs in economic growth and inclusive development. “I hope that you will not be content with just receiving that fund and improving your current processes but do better in coming up with more creative things and more innovative things. And while you do those, you will be mirroring some of the best practices that other MSMEs can learn from,” she said.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Katrina F. Ronquillo, who thanked the Batch SIBOL beneficiaries for their trust and collaboration. “Your trust inspires us to do more, to serve better, and to continue bringing programs that truly make a difference,” she remarked. The ceremony highlighted the DOST Ilocos Region’s commitment to empowering MSMEs to grow, innovate, and achieve sustainable success, bringing ‘Agham na Ramdam’ closer to communities across the region. (Eldrick John Viluan and Katherine Grace Balanag)

DOST SOCCSKSARGEN joins preparatory meeting for NSTW 2026

by Info @Brand Zone | March 16, 2026

As the next host of the National Science and Technology Week 2026, the Department of Science and Technology SOCCSKSARGEN joined the preparatory meeting held on March 6, 2026 at the DOST Main Building, Bicutan, Taguig City. The meeting was led by Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang and Host Region Regional Director Engr. Sammy P. Malawan to begin key planning activities for the national event.

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Discussions focused on updates on the preparations for NSTW 2026, presentation of proposals, review of the Special Orders for the NSTW 2026 Steering Committee, and the proposed monthly schedule of committee meetings to ensure the smooth and coordinated implementation of the event.

The meeting marked an important step in mobilizing the organizing teams as SOCCSKSARGEN gears up to host one of the country’s biggest celebrations of science, technology, and innovation (STI).