THE banana chips production in the province of Camarines Sur will be further reinforced with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) with various institutions.

Camarines Sur II Agrarian Reform Chief Renato C. Bequillo said the partnership was forged between the DAR, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. (PSFI), and the local government unit (LGU) of Bombon.

Bequillo disclosed that the project, which cost P950,000 will be implemented under the DAR’s Village Level Farm-Focused Enterprise Development (VLFED) program.

“The funds will be utilized for the construction materials and upgraded tools and equipment to make new improvements to the banana chip processing center donated by the Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. (PSFI),” said Bequillo.

Bequillo added that the project will ensure that the recipient, the Siembre Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization (SARBO), will be able to expand their business and bring their products not just locally but to other parts of the country as well.

He said the DAR will also allot P180,000 for the skills and managerial training of SARBO’s officers and members, emphasizing the significance of equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to manage their business professionally.

Bequillo further explained that the agency will spend an additional P370,000 on product enhancements, member capacity building, and various marketing initiatives to better promote the organization’s products and business in the coming year.

“SARBO, consisting of 130 members, is already producing eight delicious varieties of banana chips that are selling like hotcakes in stores, pasalubong centers, and offices around the province. They plan to introduce chocolate-flavored banana chips, which will be a delicious addition to their existing flavors,” Bequillo said.

Since January of this year, the organization’s sales have reached P73,957, resulting in a two-year total of P445,450 in 2021 and 2022.

To further support the group, the DOST will provide technical guidance on proper product labeling, handling, and packaging, as well as training in good manufacturing practices.

The DTI, on the other hand, also pledged to continue assisting the organization in adapting its products to market demands and selling banana treats at trade fairs and other marketing events.

SARBO President Emiliana Volante expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the DAR, PSFI, and other line agencies for their continued support. She acknowledged that the organization would not exist and would not have produced locally-made products if it were not for their help.

“With the generous aid and support that our organization has received, we are confident that we will continue to grow and become even more successful in producing delicious and healthy banana chips while improving the lives of our members,” Volante said.