23/09/2025
The Central Philippines State University โ Hinigaran Campus conducted a training โ workshop development of African Hito; Production, Product Development, Product Utilization, Marketing and Packaging at Brgy. Bato, Hinigaran together with the partnered extension program by Bato Integrated Organic Small-Scale Farmers Agripreneur Association (BIOSSFA) last September 1 to 4, 2025.
The training was formally opened by Sir Alberto D. Navales Jr., Highlighting the importance of African Hito production in enhancing production techniques ensures consistent quality, hygiene, and safety of Hito. Navales added, that modernizing production can increase volume and meet growing demand, both locally and for export.
The Day one (1) training highlighted by the speakers named Mr. Matt S. Sombero and Mr. Felix N. Mongcal Jr. who talked about African Hito Production which covers the preservation of food, nutritional enhancement, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation. Mr. Sombero added that Arican Hito Production is more than a food process - it's a lifeline for nutrition, culture, economy, and sustainability in many African communities.
Moreover, the after session includes lecture on Product Development of African Hito spearheaded by Maam Lewelyn P. Ronquillo and Maam Jennifer T. Guanco. Lecturers focused on enhances consumer appeal and acceptability, market value, and commercial potential.
Hence, Day one (1) concludes how transforming a traditional condiment into a modern, market-ready, and globally accepted product. It boosts its economic, cultural, and nutritional value, making Hito a symbol of innovation rooted in tradition.
On the second day of the said training, Mr. James Warren Tacapan (BSHM 2B), Mr. Malik Vinson (BSHM 2B), and Mr. Adrian Gayo (BSHM 2B), demonstrated the meat processing of African Hito (Tocino Making) with the supervision of Mr. Byran Tamayo, Maam Lewelyn P. Ronquillo, and Ms. Jekyl T, Gatuslao. These Highlights the innovation of the students, teachers, and community clientele.
The third day of the said training includes the Product Utilization of African Hito Delivered by Maam Lorely C. Curio who talks about Nutritional Supplement, Commercial Product, and Export and Diaspora Markets. Ms. Curio added, importance of Hito product utilization in promoting traditional diets and cultural identity as well as in improving dietary quality and nutrition.
Moreover, Ms. Curio elevates traditional Hito farming as a supplement to meat fish intake. These may help reduces illnesses and health problems.
On the fourth day of the training, Mr. Ariel M. Enriquez delivered the talk on Marketing of African Hito which covers distribution, selling products, pricing, packaging and promotion. Mr. Ariel added that marketing marketing is crucial for transforming African Hito from a traditional, local food product to a recognized, competitive commodity. It builds visibility, drives sales, supports economic empowerment, and ensures Hito can compete in both local and global markets.
In addition, packaging of the innovative African Hito Tocino was delivered by Mr. Glenn Niel Balidiong who delivered and perform proper packing a product. Innovative packaging for African Hito Tocino goes beyond just wrapping the product but it includes Hygiene and safety, Extended shelf life, Attractive design, Convenience, Eco-friendliness, Marketability, Mr. Glenn added.
Nonetheless, Mr. Alberto, encapsulate the four (4) day training by embracing innovative farming, exploring traditional product into modernization, and support local production.
Writer: Mark Anthony A. Banaag
