Banga, South Cotabato — The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist successfully conducted a livelihood training with the theme “Waste to Wealth: Mastering Briquette Making for a Greener Future” at the Farmers Training Hall of the Provincial Nursery and Demonstration Farm in Banga.
The event was attended by over 70 participants from various municipalities and the lone city of South Cotabato. This included 30 members of the Rural Improvement Club (RIC) from Koronadal City, 20 other RIC members, and 20 youth members from different 4-H clubs.
Engr. Shiela Mae Arindaeng, a resource person from DA RFO XII, emphasized the value of transforming agricultural waste into useful products. “This training will help us understand the significance of recycling farm waste into briquettes, contributing both to household energy solutions and environmental conservation,” she noted.
The training aimed to teach participants how to make briquettes from agricultural waste such as sawdust and carbonized rice hulls. These briquettes can serve as a clean, eco-friendly, and affordable alternative fuel source.
The training also highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of briquette-making technology. It aimed to raise awareness of the income-generating potential of agro-waste while addressing issues related to solid waste management.
Participants responded positively, expressing that the knowledge gained could help support additional livelihood opportunities in their communities. The initiative is seen as a concrete step toward building a sustainable and environmentally responsible future for South Cotabato.
