Government agencies are assisting Northern Mindanao startups in agriculture and aquaculture complete regulatory requirements.

Famela Racquel Villanueva, Bukidnon provincial director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), said Tuesday that one hurdle for aspiring business owners is the number of permits required.

“In most local food processing (startups), there are permits and licenses to operate, and we are willing to assist them,” she said.

Villanueva said securing permits is partly the reason for delays in product launches.

Government partners, including academic institutions, formed the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) to streamline the process.

The RAISE Summit in Northern Mindanao was launched Tuesday.

Noel Catibog, director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development, said the business sector plays a crucial role in adopting new technologies. (PNA)