DAR Fosters Pili Nut Innovation with Product Development Training

LEGAZPI CITY — To diversify agricultural products and boost market potential, members of the Gamot, Luya, Dalogo Farmers Association (GALUDA FA) in Polangui, Albay, completed successfully a training on the research and development of pili nut-based products.

The one-day session, organized by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Albay, was held at their office in Barangay Gamot, Polangui.

In a statement, Maria Eugenia M. Alteza, DAR-Albay Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer, highlighted the agency’s commitment to empowering farmers by encouraging them to not only improve their agricultural practices but also to explore innovative ventures that can open better economic opportunities.

The training was part of DAR’s Village Level Farm Enterprise Development (VLFED) project, which seeks to strengthen farmers’ agricultural enterprises. It was facilitated by entrepreneur Maria Jeil Martinez, who was endorsed by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Martinez guided the participants through a series of lectures on the fundamental aspects of pili nut delicacy production. This included a live demonstration on preparing crispy/glazed pili nuts, sugar-coated pili nuts, and salted garlic pili nuts. The training covered essential topics such as required ingredients, necessary equipment, product quality control, shelf life, and market strategies.

Participants gained valuable insights into the process of producing high-quality pili nut delicacies, while also receiving practical tips for exploring new market opportunities and ensuring product excellence.

The GALUDA FA expressed their gratitude to DAR for the opportunity, and to Martinez for sharing her expertise on the proper techniques for making pili nut products.