Group photo after the successful Meat Processing demonstration/training for Senior Citizen participants, personnel from DOST-TAPI, and other DOST Agencies.
Bicutan, Philippines – July 15, 2025 – Nearly a dozen senior citizens from the various DOST Agencies in the Bicutan area gathered at the TAPI Audiovisual Room to learn and witness a demonstration on practical meat processing. The training, sponsored by the DOST-Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) through its Committee on Senior Citizens, in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI), aimed to equip participants with the skills to create high-quality, home-made processed meats, potentially opening new avenues for income and healthier eating habits.
Participants were listening attentively to Ms. Chavez of the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) as she shared her knowledge on meat processing.
The enthusiastic group of participants coming from various agencies of the DOST Bicutan Science Community eagerly absorbed the step-by-step procedure on safe meat handling, curing techniques, and innovative recipes demonstrated by resource persons from the DA-BAI, noted for their expertise and skills in meat processing. The Team from BAI was composed of Mr. Ryan Almonte, Ms. Analyn Soliven, Ms. Maria Salve Chavez, and Mr. Wilson Felix, who diligently taught the participants how to make processed meat, particularly embutido, tocino, and siomai.
Participants witnessed the actual demonstration and hands-on preparation of the different meat processes, as demonstrated by the resource persons from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI).
"We're thrilled to see this group of seniors embrace this training," commented Mr. Archie Y. Mabulay, staff from DOST-TAPI. “This workshop is not just about providing income; it’s about empowering them to lead healthier lives, creating nutritious and delicious meals for themselves and their families.”
TAPI personnel engaged in hands-on Embutido preparation.
The workshop emphasized the importance of hygiene and food safety in meat processing. Participants were guided through proper sanitation procedures, ensuring the final products were not only palatable but also safe for consumption.
“I’ve always been interested in cooking and preserving food,” shared Ms. Josephine Reyes, a participant nearing retirement. “This training has given me the confidence and knowledge to turn my hobby into a possible source of income for my family.”
The participants expressed a strong desire to apply the newfound skills to potentially supplement their retirement incomes. The training could also prove beneficial in providing a healthier alternative to commercially processed meats, allowing the participants to control the ingredients and quality of the processed meats to suit their tastes.
The workshop, part of a larger initiative to support senior citizens in developing sustainable income sources, promises to bring a positive impact on the lives of the participants and their families. Thanks to DA-BAI, which is committed to fostering agricultural development and rural prosperity, supporting initiatives that uplift and empower the Filipino community.
If you want to learn more about the programs and services of DOST-TAPI, you may contact us at email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., call us at (02) 8582 1450, or visit our DOST-TAPI Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DOST.TAPI) for more details.
