USM-CHEFS Champion Cultural Identity Revitalization through Filipino Service Excellence Training under UniK Project
December 23, 2025
Experts from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) conducted a capacity-building workshop for eighteen (18) members of the Malapatan Multipurpose Cooperative (MMPC) on December 5, 2025, in Malapatan, Sarangani. Titled “Community Action and Rural Bonding Services (CARBonS),” the extension project focused on advancing sustainable livelihoods through a series of comprehensive lectures and interactive demonstrations on the production of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) and VCO-based products.
In her welcome remarks, MMPC Chairman Marie Nisa S. Suib expressed her profound gratitude for the continued support of USM in equipping the participants with the necessary knowledge and skills, stating: “Kami po ay labis na nagpapasalamat sa patuloy na kolaborasyon ng USM at ng aming Kooperatiba. Lubos din kaming nagagalak dahil ang aming naunang pagsasanay sa VCO at Soap Making ay muli nanamang susundan ng dagdag kaalaman patungkol sa negosyo at Good Manufacturing Practices at marami pa.”
The activity transitioned to a lecture session led by Prof. Analyn Gonzales, who discussed topics on Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy. This was followed by a detailed discussion on Sustainable Business Practices, Customer Service, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) by Prof. Apple Ureta.
A practical demonstration immediately followed the discussion, empowering the participants to create their own Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO)-based herbal rubs and liniments. Under the expert guidance of Prof. Queennie L. Rufino, this hands-on session solidified the participants’ mastery of product formulation.
The Community Action and Rural Bonding Services (CARBonS) Project is designed to propel the development of sustainable livelihoods in Malapatan. By leveraging the abundant supply of coconut in the area and the continued efforts of USM entrepreneurship experts, the project ensures that cooperative members can maximize local resources by transforming raw materials into high-value, marketable products—a significant step toward economic development in the community.
