Participants during the exposure and learning trip at Mallari Distillery
TAYABAS CITY, Quezon – As part of the "Development of Coconut Industry Growth Areas in the Province of Quezon" project, the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) organized an exposure and learning trip (Lakbay Aral) for Quezon coconut farmers to visit lambanog processing sites in Tayabas City. Lambanog is a traditional liquor made from distilling fermented coconut sap. The activity aimed to improve the farmers' skills and knowledge in value-addition, specifically in lambanog production. Twenty farmers from the municipalities of Catanauan, Lopez, Candelaria, and Sariaya participated in the activity. They learned about the different stages of lambanog production, such as fermentation, distillation, and packaging. They also interacted with industry experts to gain insights on sustainable and profitable practices. This initiative highlights SEARCA's commitment to supporting farmers by introducing them to innovative agricultural practices and market opportunities, fostering the growth of the coconut industry in the province.
Ms. Rhona Ornedo, representing the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist of Quezon, delivered the opening remarks.
The event began with a visit to the Mallari Distillery, where participants were given a guided tour of the facilities. During the tour, they had the opportunity to engage with the distillery staff, asking detailed questions about the processes involved in lambanog production, including fermentation, distillation, and quality control measures. In addition to learning about the technical aspects of production, participants were introduced to the rich history of the Mallari Distillery, one of the region's oldest and most renowned lambanog producers. They gained insights into the origins of the business, its journey toward becoming a successful enterprise, and the strategies employed to sustain operations and maintain product quality over the years.
This visit provided technical knowledge and inspired the farmers to explore entrepreneurial ventures. It also emphasized the potential for success in the coconut industry through innovation, dedication, and adherence to high standards.
Participants during their short visit to the Mallari Distillery shop.
The participants also had the opportunity to visit the Mallari Distillery shop, which features a variety of lambanog products, including both traditional and flavored variants. During this visit, they explored the different product offerings and gained insights into the innovative approaches used to diversify and enhance the appeal of lambanog.
In addition to sampling the flavored lambanog, participants discussed branding and marketing strategies. They learned how to effectively promote their products within the local market and to international consumers. Topics included packaging design, brand positioning, and using digital platforms to expand market reach.
A representative from Greenlife Coconut Products Phils. Inc. provided the participants with a comprehensive explanation of the innovative materials utilized by the company.
The activity concluded with a visit to Greenlife Coconut Products Phils. Inc., where participants had the opportunity to observe the production process of lambanog and the innovative technologies employed by the company. These technologies enable using cost-effective yet equally durable materials compared to traditional options. The company also shared insights into its journey as a relatively new enterprise, highlighting how it has successfully kept pace with established industry players. Furthermore, they emphasized their continuous efforts to develop innovative and competitive products that meet the demands of the modern market.