ILIGAN CITY (PIA)–Two ambulant food vendors here received solar-powered vending carts from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Lanao del Norte on October 4 through its project dubbed “Sustaining Consumer Confidence: Farm to Fork Integrated Food Safety Measures and Monitoring During a Pandemic.”
The said project aims to support the livelihood of vendors affected by COVID-19 through the provision of innovative vending carts.
The beneficiaries are thankful for the assistance provided to them as they can now start a small business that can support their families.
“Nagpapasalamat ako sa DOST. Malaking tulong ito sa pamilya ko. Sana magawa agad namin ang trabaho namin para makatulong kami sa araw-araw along lalo na sa pamilya at anak na nag-aaral,” said Billy Ray Lopez of Brgy. Tibanga who plans to sell Beef Pares and fried chicken.
Meanwhile, Arnel Panlaan, who will sell fried chicken at Children’s Park, said that the assistance is a huge help to his family as they only rely on farming.
The 100-watt solar-powered carts can switch on a soft lamp, or a fan, and charge a phone. The clean water and wastewater garage are connected to a built-in sink with a portable faucet. It features a three-sided acrylic COVID-19 transmission barrier around it, flashing lights and horns for safety, a glass visor, a fuel tank with a stove, trash cans, a more sensitive stainless steel table, and an infographic on the Material Food Safety Guide.
The Chamber of Commerce & Industry Foundation of lligan Inc. identified and assessed the beneficiaries by conducting on-site visits, and interviews. (LELAntonio/PIA Lanao del Norte)
