MATI CITY, DAVAO ORIENTAL – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) together with the soldiers of the 66th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army provided training to the members of the Sanghay United Farmers Association (SUFA) in producing roasted peanuts as an additional livelihood opportunity.
The training demonstration on roasted peanut production took place on July 8 in Barangay Sainz, Mati City, Davao Oriental. During the event, DTI personnel and the Community Development Team of the 66th Infantry Kabalikat Battalion introduced the techniques and technologies needed to achieve the desired flavor of high-quality roasted peanuts.
SUFA President, Wilfredo Latoy, shared the benefits of their new skills, stating that the products they create can be sold in the market for profit. These products can also be used for their daily consumption, contributing to their daily livelihood.
The members expressed their delight in the activity as it provides them with valuable knowledge that can lead to their progress.
The Department of Trade and Industry assured that various forms of livelihood training will continue to be shared with the community.
Domingo Cruz Jr., a representative from DTI, stated that their agency will closely monitor the progress of SUFA to ensure the sustainability of the knowledge they gained.
The training initiative not only marks a step towards improving the lives of the community members but also signifies the collaboration between the 10th Infantry Division and the 66th Infantry Battalion in aiding the localities against the influence of communist terrorist groups like the NPA. (Report by Louie Angchay)