Macaroons, Bukayo, and Coco Jam- these are only few of the coconut-based products introduced by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) XI through the Provincial S&T Office in Davao Occidental to a women’s organization in Balut Island, Sarangani, Davao Occidental through a series of technology training.
With the aim of uplifting the lives of the families in the countryside through economic opportunities, DOST Davao taught the women on the island by utilizing the uses of coconuts which are abundantly grown in the area.
A total of 120 women participated in the training. The focus of the training was to empower these women with expertise in transforming coconuts into value-added products that are delicious, marketable, and nutritious which was led by the DOST Davao Technology Training personnel, Ms. Robelyn Pulido.
The women’s community was thrilled with the opportunity given to them to generate income by creating high-quality products from resources that are readily available to them.
“Kita nga mga kababaihan, makatabang pud ta sa atoang economy in our little ways (As women, we can also help our economy in our little ways),” said Ms. Maria De Arce, head of the women’s organization.
Aside from the macaroons, bukayo, and coco jam, Ms. Pulido also introduced coco cookies which are made from residues of coconut meat or kernel.
In addition, she assisted the women in basic marketing strategies to ensure a sustainable market for coconut products.
To complete the training, the participants were equipped with knowledge and skills on liquid dishwashing soap, detergent powder, and fabric softener- which can also be valuable alternative sources of income for the community.
“Sa DOST, our heart can’t thank you enough. Unta dili mo magsawa magbalik balik diri sa amoa (I hope you will not get tired of coming back here in our island,” Ms. De Arce said.
The technology training was conducted under the Community Empowerment thru the Science and Technology program aimed at improving the economic conditions of the people by providing various livelihood opportunities.
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