The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) has taken a major step in supporting local food businesses by launching a food safety manual tailored for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Iloilo.
Designed with practicality and accessibility in mind, the manual aims to improve food safety practices across the sector—an essential move as these businesses play a vital role in the region’s economy and daily life.
About the New Safety Manual
The manual covers key topics such as hygiene, sanitation, and process control, offering guidelines that are easy to understand and apply, especially for grassroots entrepreneurs. It is available in both English and Hiligaynon, ensuring that local food handlers can engage with the material in a language they are comfortable with. This localization is vital in ensuring that food safety knowledge is not just available but truly usable.
For MSMEs, the manual serves as both a practical guide and a stepping stone toward greater compliance with national food safety standards. It empowers businesses to prevent contamination, improve product quality, and protect customer health—factors that contribute to building trust and customer loyalty. In an industry where a single food safety incident can damage a brand, such proactive education is crucial.
Dr. Johannes Magpusao, dean of the School of Technology and the project leader, mentioned that the manual was specifically developed with street vendors and carinderia owners in mind.
“This is very needed and relevant, not just because Iloilo City is a gastronomic city“. It's very relevant for business owners,” Dr. Magpusao said in an interview.
How This Impacts Future Businesses
In the long term, the manual has the potential to elevate the entire food business landscape in Iloilo. As more MSMEs adopt these practices, the local food economy could see improved standards, stronger market reputations, and even greater readiness to compete at a national or global level.
While the manual lays the groundwork, its true impact depends on consistent application and sustained support. Whether this effort sparks a larger transformation in local food safety remains to be seen—but it is, without doubt, a step in the right direction.
