BAGUIO CITY– The Department of Science and Technology (DOST-CAR) recognized Cordillera’s 2020 Best SETUP Implementers during the annual Regional Science and Technology Week celebration last week.
Awarded as Cordillera’s 2020 Best Regional SETUP Implementer is Health 100 representing Baguio –Benguet. Established in 2009 by owner Elmer Macalingay, Health 100 provides healthier options for baked products, vegetarian dishes and other healthy dishes and food products.
The other provincial level Best Implementers are Rebiajos (Cassava processed products and other native delicacies) of San Carlos, Sta. Marcela for Apayao; Mila’s Bakeshop in Poblacion East, Lagawe for Ifugao; Mt. Zion Bakery of Bantay, Tabuk City for Kalinga; Marie June Bakery in Poblacion Tadian for Mountain Province.
SETUP stands for Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program which is the DOST’s banner program to assist micro, small and medium enterprises become productive and competitive through the provision of a holistic package of science and technology interventions.
Health 100 is a two–time DOST SETUP intervention awardee. In 2014, DOST awarded a total grant of P562, 500 for the phase 1 of SETUP for the project proposal on Upgrading of Equipment and Packaging of H100 Baked Products.
In May 2019, H100 was awarded with the SETUP Phase 2 for the project proposal, “Continuous Upgrading of the Production of H100 Restoreant” with an approved grant of P809, 000.
Before the DOST SETUP intervention, H100 had assets of P144,500; production was at 98,300 pieces based on its 2013 data. In 2019, H100, production reached 290,282 pieces and with gross sales in the millions .
From three market outlets, H100 expanded to seven restoreants around Bagui –Benguet which also allowed them to employ more individuals including a person with disability personnel. The establishment also showcases care for the environment in its operation with urban gardening with vermin composting, organic fertilizers and proper waste disposal, among others.
DOST–CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog said the SETUP has been the banner program of the department to help MSMEs. Aside from providing better income opportunities, their success also provides the much-needed socio-economic impact to the communities where they are located.
Bantog encouraged SETUP implementers in the Cordillera to be persistent in nurturing their enterprises as they are being guided through the provision of various Science and Technology interventions.**JDP/CCD-PIA CAR
