Valderrama: A group of farmers in the Municipality of Valderrama has introduced an innovative noodle product using peperomia pellucida, locally known as "pancit-pancitan," as their primary ingredient.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Lublub Fresh Vegetable Noodle-Makers Association, led by President Fely Roquero, has been utilizing the abundant pancit-pancitan in Barangay Lublub to create a unique noodle offering. This initiative is part of their continuous efforts to diversify their product line, supported by the Sustainable Livelihood Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The association, consisting of 20 members, has previously produced noodles from squash, malunggay, and blue ternate.
Roquero noted the rapid sales of their new product during the Kadiwa ng Pangulo event in Antique last month, largely due to its health benefits. Pancit-pancitan is recognized for its ability to lower uric acid and alleviate arthritis symptoms, while their other products like malunggay and blue ternate noodles are celebrated for their nutritional advantages, such as being rich in Vitamin A and boosting energy and brain function.
These vegetable noodles are currently featured at the two-day Kadiwa Ng Pangulo event, celebrating the 128th Independence Day in Antique. The association's production capacity has been significantly enhanced by the Shared Service Facility (SSF) provided by the Department of Trade, which includes equipment like a noodle machine, chiller, mixer, and oven.
With the improved production capabilities, the association can now generate around PHP100,000 in monthly gross income, selling through events like Kadiwa Ng Pangulo and various outlets in San Jose de Buenavista, Bugasong, and Valderrama. Previously, their manual production was limited to about 50 packs of 200-gram noodles twice a week. Each member of the association earns at least PHP2,000 for their contribution to the noodle production.
To support this initiative's sustainability, the Department of Agriculture supplies the association with vegetable seeds, ensuring a steady flow of raw materials for their innovative noodle products.
