Siquijor – There has been a significant decline in the cassava production in the country, and it has been the aim of the Department of Agriculture to increase the production of quality corn and cassava for human consumption, feeds, and industrial uses as well as empower corn and cassava farmers. Hence, there is a need to capacitate the farmers.

On August 17-19, 2021 a Training on Post Harvest Handling and Processing of Cassava with Extension Support was conducted in Ocean View Farm and Cottages in Maria, Siquijor. Eighteen (18) farmers and agricultural extension workers from the municipality of Enrique Villanueva, Larena, Lazi, Maria, San Juan, and Siquijor participated in the three-day training.

This training aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of participants on the postharvest handling and processing of cassava. During the three-day course, participants learned about cassava production technology: its economic importance, physiology, cultural practices, and nutritional composition; postharvest handling and storage of fresh cassava roots; and processing and packaging of cassava.

As part of the extension support, farmers received PPE and cassava lifter – a tool designed for uprooting cassava so that labor will become less exhaustive.

Jimbo Israel Casalta, Celso T. Jumawan, and Joseph Marijess Donde L. Pactor, from the Provincial Agriculture’s Office-team in Siquijor shared their expertise on the topics discussed as resource persons while Mary Daphny Tumala served as member of the training management team.

“The resource persons shared very informative topics regarding cassava production. This information is for the benefit of the farmers - an addition to their existing knowledge about cassava production; for better production and more income,” said Steve S. Sampaga – one of the training participants.

Should there be any clarifications or inquiries around this training, you may contact Jeffrey O. Awas, Project Officer, thru her email at jeffreyawas@gmail.com.