SIQUIJOR, Dec 13 (PIA)—The
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Siquijor handed out P187,217 to
Victoriano Pacanon, proprietor of VJ Foods, as assistance through the agency’s
Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).
The turnover of check was done recently
at the Provincial Science and Technology Center (PSTC) of DOST Siquijor and
witnessed by its personnel and staff.
Pacanon runs a bakery in Catamboan,
Larena, Siquijor. He personally delivers his goods to already established
customers both in Larena and Siquijor.
In order to enhance production and to
comply with government standards, the proprietor approached DOST Siquijor for
possible assistance through technological intervention.
With the amount he received from DOST
SETUP, he can purchase spiral mixer, stainless steel working table, bread
slicer, kneader machine, and gas-operated oven.
Also included in the assistance
is P40,000 worth of packaging and labeling as stipulated in the approved
proposal and signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
Before the turnover of the check, DOST
briefed the proprietor of VJ Foods on his responsibilities and privileges as
DOST SETUP beneficiary.
Unlike financial institutions that
require borrowers to pay loaned amount with interest, DOST only requires its
beneficiary to pay the whole amount for the duration of three years without
interest.
However, he may opt to pay 0.5% of the
total amount so that he can fully own all his equipment he bought using the
money handed out by DOST.
Pacanon expressed his gratitude for the
assistance he received from DOST. According to him, this will help his firm
boost production output and increase revenue.
Meanwhile, PSTD Engr. Mario E. de la
Peña said that VJ Food Products is expected to become competitive locally
through the assistance.
He was optimistic of the positive
impact DOST SETUP could offer to VJ Foods. He even hoped that other bakery
owners who need to upgrade their processing equipment may visit DOST for
possible assistance. (mbcn/RAC/PIA7_Siquijor w/ reports from Engr. Reinhold Jek
Abing)