Bicol’s pili nut to level up with opening of service facility

The pili nut, one of the all-time favourite local delicacies, is all set to delight more palates with the recent inauguration of the Naga City Pili Processing and Packaging Center last May 19, 2014 at the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum. A partnership project of the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture, and the City Government of Naga, among others, the center will be the service facility for Bicol Region’s small entrepreneurs engaged in pili processing. Pili is one of the region’s most famous culinary attractions. (S&T Media Service, DOST-STII)

Bicol’s pili nut, one of the region’s most famous products sought after for its sweet taste, crunchiness, and high nutritional content, is all geared up for sweeter prospectswith the blessing and inauguration of the Naga CityPili Processing and Packaging Center last May 19, 2014.

Housed at the right wing of the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum in Barangay Triangulo, Naga City, the facility is a collaboration among the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture, City Government of Naga, and other public and private entities.

Speaking at the inauguration rites, DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo said that the service facility is targeting the region’s small entrepreneurs.

Through its array of services and equipment, the Center aims to lift the safety and quality standards of a product which has long catapulted Bicol into one of the Philippines’ foremost tourist destinations known for its natural and culinary attractions.

Included in its range of food processing equipment are a stainless steel stationary oven, cooking vat, stainless grinder, blanching vat, testa remover, peeling table, draining sifter, electric dough mixer, and induction sealer, among others.

“Pili makers can use the facility to meet safety standards,” said Sec. Montejo.
Meanwhile, Naga City Mayor John C. Bongat said “the partnership symbolizes the importance of capacitating and empowering small enterprises in the region.“

At the same time, Sec. Montejo added that while the processing and packaging center focuses its services on small-scale pili processors, it is also developing among them the culture of self-sustainability instead of dependency. A large number of families in the region are engaged in the making and selling of various pili-based products such as candies, tarts and cakes.