Nueva Ecija eyes first crop processing plant
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ONION farmers harvest their crop at a roadside farm in Bongabon, Nueva Ecija, while bracing for threats from fungal diseases like anthracnose and pests such as fall armyworms. The Department of Science and Technology has warned that these infestations have been major causes of crop losses in Nueva Ecija and other onion-producing areas.
Photograph by Jonas Reyes for DAILY TRIBUNE
MUÑOZ, Nueva Ecija — The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Nueva Ecija, is set to establish the region’s first-ever Food Processing Facility (FPF) for high-value and primary crops.
The project is a major step in Governor Aurelio Umali’s continuing effort to strengthen the province’s agricultural sector by promoting value-adding technologies, enhancing food security, and creating new livelihood opportunities for local farmers.
Provincial Administrator Atty. Joma San Pedro and CLSU president Dr. Evaristo A. Abella met on 31 July 2025, at the CLSU campus to discuss plans for the construction of the facility. Dr. Abella expressed full support for the initiative and committed to help craft a feasibility study and business plan for the proposed project.
“We are ready to provide technical support and expertise to ensure the success of this endeavor,” Abella said.
Key representatives from the Provincial Administrator’s Office, Tourism Office, Engineering Office, Agriculture Office, and Planning and Development Office attended the planning session. CLSU officials from the Offices of the University President, Vice Presidents for Administration and Business Affairs, College of Home Science and Industry, Phil-Sino Center for Agricultural Technology, University Extension Program, and Crops Production Division were also present.
A food processing facility transforms raw agricultural products into edible goods through processes such as cleaning, slicing, cooking, packaging, and preserving. These facilities are essential to the food supply chain, as they improve shelf life, ensure food safety, and cater to consumer demand for ready-to-eat or easy-to-cook items.
The establishment of the FPF in Nueva Ecija is seen as a significant move to reduce post-harvest losses, promote agri-based enterprises, and create more jobs in rural areas.
The Philippines has a robust and growing food processing industry spanning sectors such as beverages, poultry, meat and seafood. Recently, major players like Thailand’s Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF) have expressed interest in setting up processing and distribution hubs in the country, underscoring the industry’s investment potential.
With the construction of the new facility, Nueva Ecija hopes to position itself as a leading agri-industrial hub in Central Luzon.
