.png)
To ensure the quality and safety of Lucban's renowned longganisa, Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) and the local government unit of Lucban (LGU Lucban) entered a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on February 24 to mark the start of a collaborative research project.
SLSU President Dr. Frederick T. Villa led the university delegation, which included Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Dhenalyn Aquino-Dejelo, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Dr. Arvin N. Natividad, Research Services Director Dr. Nicanor L. Guinto, and project proponents, Dr. Claire Anne M. Yao, Dr. Leomar C. Miano, and Dr. Aurita A. Laguador. Lucban Mayor Hon. Agustin M. Villaverde represented the LGU, along with Vice Mayor Hon. Arnel C. Abcede and members of the Sangguniang Bayan as well as members of the Sangguniang Bayan namely councilors Hon. Sunday E. Alvarez, Hon. Aven Bince V. Rada, Hon. Romjcell Ann A. Suarez, Hon. Nyerwina Charmie B. Pavino, Hon. Maria Geraldine J. Halili, Hon. Nikki Deveza, Hon. Marife V. Hari, Hon. Eduardo N. Alamo.
The MOA paves the way for the research project, “Development and validation of an assessment instrument for food quality and safety audits for longganisa production in Lucban, Quezon: a preservation of culture and trademark.” Led by Dr. Yao, Dr. Laguador, and Dr. Miano, the study aims to develop and validate a crucial food safety audit instrument for longganisa production.
This initiative addresses the challenges of maintaining consistent quality and safety as the longganisa industry in Lucban grows. The project will identify key technological, managerial, and human factors influencing food quality and safety. It will also conduct self-assessments of local longganisa production facilities and, ultimately, create an audit instrument to help these facilities improve their practices. The goal is to move beyond traditional food safety management, incorporating the best practices in technology, management, and human resources.
“This initiative reflects our collective commitment to valuing our culture while promoting excellence and prosperity in local trade,” Dr. Villa shared in Filipino, emphasizing the importance of preserving the longganisa’s heritage while ensuring its continued success.
The research is expected to benefit local producers by ensuring consistent product quality and market competitiveness of Lucban Longganisa. This collaborative effort between SLSU and LGU Lucban promises to safeguard the quality, safety, and cultural significance of Lucban’s local delicacy for generations to come.
Article & Layout by: Glen Cuya