Innovative Solutions to Strawberry Surplus in Benguet

In the heart of Benguet province, known as the "Strawberry Capital of the Philippines," agricultural abundance often leads to surplus waste. However, for John Glenn Libag, a fourth-year entrepreneurship student at Benguet State University, this surplus presents an opportunity for innovation deeply rooted in local identity.

Libag established Bo-oy Food Products in 2023 to ensure that no strawberry goes to waste, particularly during peak harvest seasons. His venture focuses on transforming strawberries into a variety of non-traditional goods, moving beyond the conventional strawberry jam. He highlighted the supply gap that inspired his entrepreneurial journey, noting that he was encouraged to create his own supply for the area.

Among his innovative products are strawberry hot sauce, strawberry yema jam, and even strawberry coffee. Libag is also venturing into premium wine production, aiming to create a brand that embodies the essence of Benguet. His flagship product, the "Lumawig Edition Highlander’s Wine," incorporates strawberries along with other local ingredients such as cabbage, carrots, and lemongrass, while utilizing a traditional smoking method known as kiniing to preserve the flavors.

“In business, there are a lot of challenges but what’s important is how you get back up. Always put God first in your business.”John Glenn Libag, entrepreneur

Libag's commitment to sustainability extends to a circular economy model, where he actively supports local farmers by purchasing their surplus strawberries. He emphasizes zero waste in his production process, utilizing byproducts creatively. For instance, the leftover fruit from his wine-making is transformed into mixed berries preserves, and lemon peels are dehydrated and powdered for use in lemon wines.

Establishing a business while completing his studies has posed financial challenges for Libag. However, he credits various government initiatives, particularly the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) "One Town, One Product" Next Generation program, for providing essential support in areas such as Food and Drug Administration registration and intellectual property protection. He also benefited from financial assistance through the Department of Labor and Employment's livelihood programs.

“'Yung IPO kasi, it’s a protection of your brand. ‘Pag sinabi nating naka-IPO ‘yung product or ‘yung brand mo, you have the sole right to that brand.”Angelica Sebastian, trade and industry development analyst

Libag is set to represent Benguet in the Department of Agriculture’s Regional Young Farmers Challenge with his innovative products. His products, which have already reached international customers, are available at the La Trinidad Strawberry Farm. Looking ahead, Libag plans to focus full-time on expanding his business upon graduation.

Encouraging other young entrepreneurs, Libag stated that in business there are many challenges, but what’s important is how you get back up, and he advised to always put God first in your business. The DTI Baguio-Benguet office echoed this sentiment, urging youth to explore entrepreneurship and utilize available resources. Angelica Sebastian, a trade and industry development analyst, emphasized the importance of formalizing businesses through intellectual property registration, explaining that it serves as protection for one's brand.

The DTI's Young Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) serves as a vital initiative aimed at transforming the ambitions of young Filipinos into successful business ventures. By providing mentorship and practical experience, YEP addresses the challenges faced by aspiring entrepreneurs and promotes a shift from job-seeking to job-creating.