The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) took a leading role in strengthening community-based cooperatives in Pili with the official turnover of a Mushroom Processing Facility in Barangay Binanuaanan and a Goat Production Facility in Barangay Bagong Sirang on March 24, 2026, boosting the university’s commitment to empowering local farmers and women’s groups while promoting sustainable agriculture.
CBSUA faculty experts provided comprehensive technical support and facilitated capacity-building activities, equipping cooperative members with the knowledge and skills to manage and sustain their respective facilities. The training sessions covered mushroom processing techniques and goat production management, ensuring that members are well-prepared to maximize the benefits of the new facilities.
The turnover events, conducted in partnership with the Agencia Española de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo (AECID) and Fundación de Religiosos para la Salud (FRS), were also attended by key local officials, including Mayor Marivic A. Solano, barangay captains, and municipal councilors, all expressing support for advancing local agriculture in Pili.
The Binanuaanan San Agustin Women Producers Cooperative (BINAGUCOOP), a women-led organization chaired by Dea R. Villamater, received the fully equipped Mushroom Processing Facility. Members have already begun producing innovative products such as mushroom ice cream and plan to expand into mushroom noodles and other value-added goods. The facility enables the cooperative to improve product quality, increase production capacity, and explore new market opportunities, enhancing income generation and promoting food innovation in the community.
Meanwhile, the Bagong Sirang Himaao Agriculture Cooperative (BSHAC), chaired by Mari Jean I. Batanes, received a Goat Production Facility complete with goats, a top-down motor vehicle, and essential tools for goat raising. CBSUA’s technical guidance ensures that the cooperative can strengthen livestock production and sustain a reliable source of livelihood for its members.
During the turnover ceremonies, Dr. Dariel A. Palmiano, CBSUA Vice President for Research and Innovation, and Dr. Vladimir R. Foronda delivered inspirational messages, encouraging cooperative members to remain committed to their enterprise journey and highlighting the pivotal role of women in community development.
With the establishment of these facilities, CBSUA’s guidance and training are expected to enhance cooperative productivity, expand access to resources, and empower members to achieve long-term socio-economic development in the municipality. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘌𝘚𝘋
