The Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) and Likhaya Community Store and Cafe will be conducting a community workshop titled “Discovering the ABCs of Soybean: A Soya Processing Community Workshop” on 20 July 2024, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. This workshop is part of FMDS’ commitment to sustaining the FMDS Perma G.A.R.D.E.N. (Growing Appreciation towards Resilience, Development, Entrepreneurship, and Nutrition).
The workshop is under the C.I.D.A.S. (Community Inclusivity, Digital Transformation, And Acceleration Towards Sustainability) key components of FMDS’ public service thrusts in Women and Elderly Empowerment and Transformation+ (WEET+), Community Health Education and Well-being (CHEW), Community Improvement, and Application of Research Towards the Advancement of Communities. The workshop is also aligned with the commitment of FMDS to contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDGs 1, 2, 3, 11, 13, 15, and 17.
FMDS maintains its service to the Los Baños communities, particularly the Barangay Maahas, San Antonio, Tuntungin-Putho, and Bayog who will serve as the participants of the hands-on training on processing soybean to soy milk for the livelihood of the communities. Further, this will equip communities with knowledge and skills on soybean processing and value adding as they will be producing soy-based products like ice candy, which is a popular summer snack in the Philippines, ensuring economic benefits by introducing a cost-effective alternative livelihood for the participants. As a result, attendees will be able to be financially independent which can help in addressing poverty issues, promoting inclusive cities, and forming meaningful partnerships among their neighborhoods.
The workshop is a move by FMDS to serve as a venue for the agricultural and nutritional promotion of soybeans that helps to ensure healthy lives and the well-being of the communities. Moreover, it promotes the benefits of naturally-grown and non-GMO local soybeans for battling climate change and contributing to sustainable ecosystems. FMDS and Likhaya envision an accessible permaculture garden for the nearby communities by anchoring agroecological approaches in soya cultivation that can help in environmental awareness and the production of locally produced food.
To provide us with healthy, affordable, and delectable food alternatives, Mr. Rommel “Ome” Rolando Bailey, the owner of Likhaya, will serve as the resource person forof the workshop.
Written by: Maryrose Alingasa (Intern) • Edited by: Larry N. Cruz • Crossposted from FMDS Official Website
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