The DOST Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) has selected the College of Technology’s research proposal, “Development of Cacao Pod Husk Pulverize, Shredder, and Pelletizing Machine,” for further consideration, highlighting the project’s potential impact and innovation.

This is part of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University – Mid-La Union Campus’ (DMMMSU MLUC’s) ongoing collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Metals and Engineering Innovation Center established within the university.

In preparation for the next stage of the proposal process, Dr. Victorio C. Palabay (COT Dean), Dr. Jake Tyrone I. Somera (Chair, BSIT), and Mr. Jessie D. Panganiban, in collaboration with a representative from the DOST Region 1, conducted a site visit to the Cacao Growers and Marketing Cooperative of Pozorrubio, Pangasinan, on May 7, 2024. This aimed to gather crucial insights and assess the feasibility of the proposed project, which focuses on developing an innovative machine to process cacao pod husks. The cacao pod husk processing machine’s development has the potential to revolutionize the use of cacao by-products, contributing to the sustainability and efficiency of the cacao industry. (By Arrianne Michelle F. Fabro)