Merit, Victoria, Oriental Mindoro – As part of the Start-up Bootcamp series, the Mindoro State University Innovative Business Incubator for Biosystems Solutions (MinSU-iBIBES) successfully conducted a one-day training on Food Safety and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) on June 9, 2025, at the Provincial Demo Farm in Merit, Victoria, Oriental Mindoro. The training aimed to build the capacity of startups under the Food Innovation Focus Area, who are now in the prototyping stage of product development, to ensure that all products developed will meet the requirements of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The training, facilitated by Engr. Christine P. Caringal, Food Innovation Mentor of MinSU-iBIBES, aimed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential knowledge and skills to ensure safe and quality-controlled food production. The event was attended by incubatees under the Food Innovation Area of the boot camp - comprising start-up teams and individuals developing agri-based and food processing ventures within the university’s incubation program.
The program included two technical sessions. In the morning, participants explored Food Safety Hazards, learning to identify and control biological, chemical, and physical contaminants in food processing. Engr. Caringal introduced safety frameworks such as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and shared best practices for hazard prevention and regulatory compliance.
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs), which emphasized proper hygiene and sanitation routines in food facilities. Topics included equipment and facility sanitation, personal hygiene of food handlers, pest and waste management, and documentation procedures - all critical to ensuring product integrity and consumer safety.
The training also gave participants a chance to explore the Provincial Demo Farm’s facilities, including the food processing area, greenhouse, nurseries, herb gardens, and other agricultural sites that support practical learning and innovation.
Dr. Jerrel Reyes, representing University President Dr. Enya Marie D. Apostol, delivered an opening message affirming the university administration’s continued support for innovation-led initiatives that drive sustainable development and community empowerment.
Also present to express support and share words of encouragement were Ms. Rachelle Montero, TBI Focal Person of DOST-MIMAROPA, and Ms. Christine M. Pine, Provincial Agriculturist.
TBI Manager Engr. Randy A. Joco also addressed the participants, highlighting the importance of mentorship and industry collaboration in transforming food innovation ideas into viable enterprises. He encouraged incubatees to apply the training in strengthening their product development strategies and business models.
The activity concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Flordemae V. Ines, Industry Lead who emphasized that this training aligns with MinSU-iBIBES’ mission to build the capacity of local entrepreneurs through knowledge-sharing, technical guidance, and continuous mentorship.
For many participants, the training provided not only valuable technical insights but also renewed motivation to enhance their start-ups with safer, more sustainable food practices.
This activity is part of a series of training initiatives to be rolled out by MinSU-iBIBES under different areas such as food innovation, agriculture, environment, health, and technology. Through these programs, MinSU-iBIBES continues to support local innovators and help turn their ideas into real solutions for the community.
Photo courtesy | https://www.facebook.com/MINSUiBIBES
#SDG4 #SDG8 #SDG9 #SDG12 #SDG17
302 Staff
10531 Students
9 Colleges
3 Years
