DOST, DTI empower Caraga MSMEs to bring native palagsing to global markets

Originally published by DOST on 1 September 2026. Read the original DOST report. Dates and plans below reflect that report.

To overcome barriers facing traditional delicacies, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) launched a joint initiative to bring Butuan City’s native delicacy palagsing to the global scene. By equipping local producers with advanced food preservation and modern packaging tools, the program transforms the fast-perishing snack into an export-ready product.

Palagsing is a native Caraga delicacy crafted from unaw (sago palm starch) mixed with young coconut strips and brown sugar. Traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, this sweet, chewy snack represents Butuan City.

During the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Caraga which ran from August 27-29 2026, Regional Director Noel M. Ajoc highlighted how crucial packaging engineering is for regional products competing on the global stage.

“When we talk about helping our MSMEs develop better products, we often focus on the product itself: its quality, safety, technology, innovation,” Ajoc stated. “But for a product to reach the market and compete, how it is packaged and presented very much matters,” he added.

To overcome the challenges of short shelf life and limited distribution of regional delicacies, DOST Caraga awarded a P4.9 million grant to Father Saturnino Urios University (FSUU) to establish the Food Innovation Center (FIC). FSUU Dean of the College of Innovative Hospitality and Tourism and FIC Focal Person Mark Lennon Sitones demonstrated how the center maximizes its government funding through high-tech processing gear during a tour of the facility.

“We have really maximized the budget given to us. We have the water retort, the vacuum fryer, the dehydrator, and spray dryer,” Dean Sitones explained, noting that the equipment processes raw materials into value-added goods using local resources.

This technological investment aligns directly with DOST’s strategy to provide tailored solutions for native delicacies like palagsing. DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. reiterated that scientific advancement must directly uplift local livelihoods.

“This year’s theme, 'Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,' reminds us that science, technology, and innovation must go beyond knowledge, machines, and ideas. They must become practical solutions that improve lives and create opportunities,” Solidum stated, adding that new facilities will help Caraga move from potential to production.

During a tour of the university facilities, DOST Assistant Secretary for Countryside Development Maria Teresa Bien De Guzman emphasized the agency's dedicated commitment to regional enterprise development.

“Today, we gathered to sign a Memorandum of Agreement, but what we are really witnessing is more than just a paper or an agreement. We are witnessing a commitment,” ASec. De Guzman stated.

“So I say, I am also deeply committed, not just to you, but also to this region, to have it produce local products which can be globally competitive, trustworthy, and from the hard work of the people,” she added.

To complement these technology advances, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) funded a P150 million Shared Service Facility (SSF) on Packaging and Labeling at FSUU called FSUU MIRACLE (Modernized Implementation Revolutionizing Advance Cutting-edge Layout and Excellent Printing Solution). This hub provides local processors with automated die-cutting, vacuum-sealing, and market-compliant branding solutions.

De Guzman also pointed out that commercial presentation is critical for products entering formal distribution channels.

“At first glance, packaging and labeling may seem like the last step before a product reaches the market or the shelf. But in truth, it can determine whether the product is noticed, trusted, bought, and bought again,” De Guzman emphasized.

With the combined strength of science, technology, and innovation and inter-agency collaboration, Caraga’s native delicacies are finally set to enter the global scene.

Regional Director Ajoc emphasized that local processors must aim for international standards now that modern facilities are available in the region

“From now on, bawal na ang packaging na hindi pang-international because we have the facility,” he remarked, noting that proper packaging will help Caraga products gain strong traction in commercial markets.

The Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) is an annual event organized by the DOST regional offices across 17 regions. This celebration showcases local technologies, research and development (R&D) projects, and innovative initiatives that connect communities, local industries, and stakeholders with science-based solutions. These efforts promote inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development in the region. The RSTW is one of the major scientific events leading up to the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) celebration, which will be held in General Santos City in November. For more information, visit www.dost.gov.ph or the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) Facebook page. (By Carl Miguel A. Lusuegro, DOST-STII and photos from Patrick James Lee C. Alfonso, DOST-STII)