Negros Occidental Gov. Bong Lacson, Board Member Jeffrey Tubola, Kabankalan Mayor Benjie Miranda, and OIC Regional Executive Director of the Dept. of Agriculture Region 6, Engr. Jose Albert Barrogo, led today’s inauguration of the Muscovado Production and Marketing Enterprise Facility in Brgy. Oringao, Kabankalan City.
It is a Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) subproject, turned over to the Kalibutan Society, Inc. with a total cost of over P25 Million.The project has two components, the infrastructure component worth P12,176,549 and the enterprise component worth P13,801,177.
The project is jointly funded by the loan proceeds from the World Bank, the Department of Agriculture, the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, and Kalibutan Society, Inc., as the proponent group.
The project aims to increase the production of quality muscovado sugar in the province that will cater to domestic and foreign markets, as well as provide livelihood opportunities that will contribute to the local economy.
Gov. Lacson said that the new building stands as a testament to the province’s commitment to excellence and innovation, and it is a hub where farmers can refine their craft, where modern technologies can be embraced to enhance productivity, and where the legacy of muscovado production can be passed down to future generations.
“By investing in the production and marketing of muscovado, we are not only preserving a time-honored tradition but also seizing the opportunity to create economic growth and sustainable livelihoods for our community,” said Gov. Lacson.
“The importance of this endeavor extends beyond the economic benefits. It also serves as a catalyst for social empowerment and community development,” he added.Also present at the activity were Himamaylan Mayor Raymundo Tongson Jr., Oringao Punong Barangay Wenifredo Penuela, KSI President Antonio Castillo, Jr., and City Agriculturist Ricky Muscosa, among others.*
