The Future is Local: BU & FDA Invest in Bicol’s Small Businesses

In a significant move to bolster the local economy and empower small businesses, Bicol University (BU) has officially partnered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through the “Bigyang-Halaga, Bangon MSMEs (BBMSMEs)” program. This collaboration marks a crucial step in providing much-needed support and resources to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the Bicol Region.

The partnership, formalized through a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the region, including Bicol University, leverages the university’s existing infrastructure, particularly its laboratory facilities, to benefit local entrepreneurs.

The FDA representatives headed by Jesusa Joyce N. Cirunay, the OIC Deputy Director General for the Field Regulatory Operations Office (FROO), and Arnold G. Alindada, the South Luzon Cluster Director, along with other key officials from the FDA Regional Field Office V. held an initial meeting with Bicol University President Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III and Dr. Lany L. Maceda, the Vice-President for Research Development and Extension. Also present were the center directors who will play a vital role in this engagement: Prof. Maria Crispina P. Baltazar, Director of the Bicol University Regional Center for Food Safety and Quality Assurance (BURCFSQA); Prof. Ma. Janesa A. Reyes, Director of the Bicol University Research and Innovation Center (BRFIC); and Prof. Alfonso M. Peñol, Jr., Director of FabLab Bicol.

A key objective of this alliance is to accredit Bicol University’s laboratories, transforming them into accessible hubs for efficient and reliable food product testing. This will directly address a significant hurdle faced by many MSMEs, who often struggle with the costs and logistics of ensuring their products meet stringent national food safety and quality standards. With locally available and affordable testing services, these businesses can navigate regulatory requirements more effectively and confidently.

Beyond laboratory support, the collaboration will also facilitate the delivery of essential technical assistance and training programs to MSMEs. These initiatives will cover crucial aspects of business operation, including:

 * Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Equipping businesses with the knowledge to maintain high standards in their production processes.

 * Labeling and Packaging: Ensuring products are accurately and informatively labeled to meet regulatory guidelines and consumer expectations.

 * Hygiene and Sanitation: Promoting best practices in maintaining clean and safe operating environments.

 * Food Safety Standards: Educating entrepreneurs on critical food safety protocols to protect public health.

By empowering MSMEs to meet these standards, the Bicol University-FDA partnership aims to unlock access to broader markets for local products. Compliance with regulatory requirements is not just a necessity but a gateway to increased consumer trust and expanded growth opportunities. This initiative is expected to foster a more vibrant and competitive local business landscape, ultimately contributing to the economic development of the Bicol Region.

This strategic alliance underscores the commitment of both Bicol University and the FDA to support local enterprises, nurture innovation, and drive sustainable economic growth within the region. By providing the necessary tools and knowledge,  paving the way for Bicolano MSMEs to thrive and contribute significantly to the national economy while safeguarding consumer well-being.

[In photos] (A) Coordination meeting held last March 25, 2025, at Bicol University, Executive Building, Main Campus, Legazpi City. After this, an initial visit was made at the facilities of BU Regional Center for Food Safety and Quality Assurance; (B) Bicol Regional Food Innovation Center; and (C) Fabrication Laboratory Bicol. These facilities are located at the BU East Campus, Legazpi City, under the Office of the Vice-President for Research, Development and Extension.