FDA LTO certification: A priority for MSMEs

In the 2016 accomplishments of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) unit of the Department of Trade and Industry Region 6, certifications for Food and Drug Administration-License to Operate or FDA-LTO were given foremost importance in assisting food enterprises.

During their Synchronized Planning on February 15 to 17 in Malay, Aklan, the DTI and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) reported that two DTI CARP-assisted MSMEs in Region 6 had already obtained their FDA-LTO certification.

These are the San Julian Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SJMPC) from Badiangan, Iloilo and the Progressive Women Agrarian Reform Cooperative (PWARC) from Dumarao, Capiz.  The SJMPC obtained their FDA-LTO as a manufacturer of bakery products while PWARC produces golden calamansi juice.

DTI-CARP facilitated the laboratory and documentary requirements for the FDA LTO certifications of these MSMEs which aim to expand marketability and competitiveness of their products.

The synchronization workshop also involved the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) which plays a vital role in providing support for food processors in terms of laboratory testing, technology and relevant grants-in-aid.

Workshop discussions also centered on the subsequent activities and trainings needed for CARP-assisted MSMEs as well as formulating strategies in mitigating difficulties and weaknesses of the assisted groups. An indicative 2018 plan of activities was also crafted to set directions for future interventions of the CARP-assisted MSMEs.