Tarlac State University was recognized as the sole recipient of the “Pillar of Excellence in Food Safety” award during the Celebration of Food Safety Milestones in Central Luzon held on July 30 at the SACOP-EPHATHA Center in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga.
The award, given by the Department of Science and Technology Region III, aims to recognize the efforts of TSU for its foundational role in establishing the Central Luzon Food Safety Team, driving research and development projects that solved critical regional food safety challenges, and providing invaluable extension services for product and process improvement.
As the accredited food safety experts of DOST III, TSU served as the lead trainer of the CLFST, which provides capacity-building programs and technical assistance to food business operators (FBOs) across Central Luzon.
Since 2017, the Center for Food Technology and Research and the College of Science’s Food Technology faculty members have served as DOST-accredited food safety consultants, assisting FBOs in complying with Food and Drug Administration requirements.
“More than this recognition from DOST, we at TSU CFTR and the College of Science Food Technology faculty are humbled to serve our FBOs not just in Tarlac, but throughout the region,” CFTR Director Dr. Lea B. Milan said in an interview with the Office of Public Affairs.
“It is truly fulfilling and rewarding to see our FBOs comply with regulatory requirements and expand their markets. This means not only ensuring food safety, but also increasing their impact on the community by creating jobs and contributing to local development,” she added.
Dr. Milan also thanked DOST and CLFST for their continued partnership and the opportunity to support the region’s food industry.
Joining Dr. Milan in receiving the award on behalf of the university is Asst. Prof. Aljon N. Lusong, Extension Services Management department head.
Among TSU’s notable projects with DOST are: Project Women’s Economic Empowerment, Establishment of a Food Safety Control System for FBOs in Tarlac City, and Standardization of Artisanal Chicharon Camiling of Tarlac, all funded by the agency.
In addition to recognizing institutional partners, MSME graduates who completed DOST-led food safety training programs received certificates. (jlm-OPA)
Photo credits: Dr. Lea B. Milan
