TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) - - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 2 has already assisted 339 local food manufacturers on food safety and product development. 

Ragel Tacazon, Senior Trade and Industry Development specialist, said that the food development program of the DTI caters into Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to provide them a competitive advantage for both the local and global markets. 

She said that in the region, most of the MSMEs they have assisted are engaged into fruits, nuts, cacao, coffee, root crops, and other high-value crop processing. 

"We conduct information sessions, consultations, [and] assistance to secure regulatory and mandatory certifications. We also facilitate for patents and other related laboratory tests," Tacazon said. 

She added that they also assist MSME food developers, especially those that have the potential to export, in securing their Licenses to Operate as well as their certification from the Food and Drugs Administration(FDA) for product registration.

The DTI also conducts inspections in the production centers to ensure that food manufacturing practices and regulations are observed. 

Tacazon also added that, aside from the permits and other requirements, they also help MSMEs on product designs and test analyses. (JKC/OTB/PIA Cagayan)