Government-backed shared service facilities are expanding to support food producers and processors in Ilocos Norte province.

In Burgos town, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provided equipment and facilities worth PHP950,000 to the local government.

The assistance will enable the officers and members of the Organikong Magsasaka ng Burgos Inc. to reduce post-harvest losses, which can reach 20 percent to 40 percent of local fruits and vegetables during peak harvest.

“Grateful beyond words for all the trust, support, and helping hands. Through my leadership, our service is not for one but for everyone,” Precious Jamorabon, president of the Organisasyon ng Magsasaka ng Burgos Inc., said on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, the group signed a memorandum of agreement to launch the DTI’s shared service facility for vegetable and fruit processing at the Vir-Hills Farm in Barangay Saoit of Burgos town.

Jamorabon told the Philippine News Agency that her organization is inspired to work harder to produce higher quality, value-adding food products to improve rural income and boost food security.

“With the new facility, we are targeting free-dried vegetables such as okra chips, kalabasa (squash) crunch, and pinakbet (assorted vegetable) mix, among others,” she said.

According to the DTI, the facility has modern equipment that helps local farmers turn surplus vegetables and fruits into high-quality products, reducing post-harvest losses.

“By integrating these modern tools into local operations, the project aims to significantly improve production efficiency, enhance overall product quality, and create greater market opportunities for farmers,” DTI provincial director Amelia Galvez said in a statement.

Through the SSF program, DTI reaffirms its commitment to strengthening local industries and uplifting communities by providing micro, small and medium enterprises with access to technology and resources. (PNA)