The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) captivated attendees at the second National Agriculture and Fisheries Technology Exhibition (NAFTE) held in Cagayan de Oro City from June 4–6.
Under the theme “Makabago at Angkop na Teknolohiya: Tulong sa Patuloy na Pag-unlad ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” NAFTE 2024 featured 46 exhibitors from various local government units, educational institutions, and DA regional offices. The event, organized by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), showcased the latest agri-fishery innovations and technologies aimed at supporting Filipino farmers, fisherfolk, and other stakeholders.
BARMM ‘s Cultural Richness on Display
BARMM’s exhibition featured an impressive selection of food and non-food products reflecting the Bangsamoro culture. Items included Inaul garments, coffee powder, traditional foods like tinadtag (crispy rice cake) and dodol (sticky rice with coconut milk), and innovative products such as seaweed chips and turmeric powder.
“Nag-participate kami dito sa NAFTE to showcase the products related sa kultura ng Bangsamoro. Nandito ‘yung mga fabrics natin na gawa sa Basilan, Maguindanao, and Lanao. Mayroon din tayong ini-showcase na food products like seaweed chips na gawa seaweeds,” said Abdul Nasseef Ulong, supervising agriculturist of BARMM’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR).
Innovative Product: Palapa
A highlight was the submission of ‘palapa’ for the Best Innovative Product category. This renowned appetizer from Lanao del Sur, traditionally made from scallion, ginger, chili, and oil, has been innovatively transformed into a versatile seasoning.
“One innovation in palapa, aside from being used as a paste, is that it can now also be used as seasoning or garnish. We now have palapa powder with turmeric, shrimp, and other additives,” Ulong noted.
Efforts to enhance palapa’s quality and shelf life have been significant, with its shelf life now extended to six months.
Recognition and Future Prospects
BARMM’s creative presentation also earned the “Best Booth”award and a P20,000 prize for MAFAR-BARMM delegates. Ulong expressed gratitude for the opportunity and looked forward to future exhibitions to present an even broader array of products.
