VSU, FDA partner to empower MSMEs through food safety & regulatory support

The Visayas State University, through the Philippine Rootcrops Research and Training Center (PhilRootcrops), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) forged a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to intensify the implementation of the  program “Bigyang-Halaga, Bangon MSMEs (BBM MSMEs)” on April 8, 2025.

This collaboration between VSU and FDA mainly focuses on assisting and capacitating local entrepreneurs, particularly the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

VSU is the lone SUC in Region 8 that entered into a joint venture with FDA  to carry out innovative strategies to address public health and safety and achieve inclusive economic growth in the community.

In addition, VSU’s existing Food Testing Laboratory - Shared Service Facility (FTL-SSF) funded by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) urged FDA to materialize the said partnership. This facility is dedicated to cater the needs of MSMEs for easy access of food product analysis and at a much lower fee.

As stipulated in the  MOU, FDA will implement key provisions of the Republic Act (RA) 3720 or the Food, Drug, Cosmetic Act, RA 9711 or the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009, and the Food Safety Act of 2013 to strengthen food and cosmetic safety. 

Furthermore, FDA will provide training on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), labeling, hygiene, and safety standards, as well as technical assistance to help meet FDA compliance.

A fully automated licensing and registration system will eventually be developed to expedite the application process for MSMEs. An FDA officer will also be designated to oversee and monitor the implementation of the program, with the pilot project to be evaluated for potential nationwide expansion.

On the other hand, VSU has pledged its full support particularly in helping MSMEs comply with regulatory standards. 

The university aims to enhance its laboratory facilities to secure accreditation for food testing, support the licensing of its Advanced Research Innovation Center (ARIC) facilities as a common manufacturing facility, and assist in obtaining FDA product registrations. 

VSU will also help MSMEs secure necessary authorizations and provide training, technical assistance, and facilities to ensure regulatory compliance. 

VSU will work closely with the FDA to coordinate program activities, monitor progress, and implement the pilot project for food and cosmetic products. Additionally, the university will allocate resources for training programs, designate coordinators, and support the dissemination of FDA public health advisories.

In her message, University President Dr. Prose Ivy G. Yepes emphasized that this partnership is one of the  concrete steps toward addressing the gaps in technical knowledge and capacity that so often impede the growth of small enterprises. 

“We are confident that this initiative will empower MSMEs, ultimately leading to stronger, more resilient businesses that will have a lasting impact on our communities”, she added. 

The ceremonial signing of the MOU was attended by FDA-Deputy Director General Jesusa Joyce N. Cirunay of the Field Regulation Operations Office, Regional Field Supervisor Benczinct Benedikt Ortega, Ms.Christine Padua, and Ms. Louise Angeli E. Dayonda. 

From VSU were President Yepes, Director for PhilRootCrops Mr.Marlon M. Tambis, Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology (DFST) Dr. Lynette Cimafranca, and one of the DFST faculty Ms. Inish Chris P. Mesias Present also were representatives from LGU-Baybay Ms. Shelly Kate MAcion, and Ms. Julie Marie Rondovio.

This article is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1: No Poverty; SDG 2: Zero Hunger; SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being;  SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production; SDG 17: Partnership for Goals

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