USMCEE 2026 Reminder
January 20, 2026
KABACAN, Cotabato — To address the persistent agricultural oversupply in Carmen, Cotabato, experts from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) conducted a specialized training program for 17 local farmers on January 20, 2026. Titled “Training on Organic Squash Production, Management, Post-Harvest Handling, and Processing with Cornick Processing,” the initiative aimed to transform raw harvests into high-value products, boosting both farm productivity and household income.
The program directly supports the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Carmen’s efforts to manage surplus squash and cassava in Barangays Malapag and Ugalingan. By shifting from raw selling to value-added processing, USM and the LGU hope to stabilize local prices and significantly reduce post-harvest waste.
The training began at the Geographic Information Support System Center (GISS), where Science Research Specialist II Rezin G. Cabantug led an orientation on Standard Compliance and Organic Integrity. During this session, participants gained critical insights into post-harvest handling, food safety, and hygiene management. The lecture also emphasized shelf-life extension and enterprise development, ensuring that the farmers’ future products are not only safe for consumption but also market-ready and sustainable.
Following the orientation, the activity transitioned to the USM Agricultural Research and Development Center (USMARDC) for practical application. Facilitator Ms. Elnora L. Flores led a hands-on demonstration on the processing of squash and cassava chips, meticulously detailing the exact ingredient ratios required for standardized product formulations. Beyond the cooking process, participants were trained in modern packaging and labeling techniques, which are skills essential for protecting product quality and meeting the aesthetic standards required for commercial retail.
For participant Catherine Ruth D. Susada, the training was a turning point. She noted that squash is no longer just a kitchen staple but a viable foundation for a business.
“Nalipay jud mi sa among natun-an kay abi namog ang kalabasa pwede ra sa utan ug mga sud-an. Karong adlawa, nahibaw-an namo na pwede diay siya sa crackers so excited na pud mi buhaton siya para magsugod ug business,” Susada expressed. (“We are very happy with what we learned because we thought squash was only for vegetable dishes. Today, we learned it can be made into crackers, so we are excited to start a business.”)
Closing the activity, Judilyn B. Española, Agriculturist I, expressed her deep gratitude to USM for its continued efforts in paving the way for farmers to adopt new agricultural technologies. “We, from the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist, would like to extend our big thanks to USM dahil hindi kayo nagsasawang tulungan kami lalo na ang aming mga farmers sa pamamagitan ng mga bagong proseso at technologies,” she noted.
Beyond the immediate relief of managing crop gluts, the synergy between USM and LGU Carmen represents a strategic investment in the region’s food system. By shifting from raw production to value-added processing, this partnership minimizes waste and stabilizes income, shielding farmers from unpredictable price swings and securing a more food-secure future for Carmen’s farming families.
