USM Agricultural Economics Department Conducts Livelihood Training under the LEVEL UP Project

The Department of Agricultural Economics (AgEcon) of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) successfully conducted a livelihood enhancement activity on November 21, 2025, at Barangay Cuyapon, Kabacan, Cotabato.

This activity is under the Livelihood Enhancement for the Vulnerable communities to Elevate Lives and Unlock Potentials (LEVEL UP) Phase I Project, an initiative designed to strengthen economic opportunities and build practical skills among vulnerable communities.

A total of 36 participants attended this training. The highlighted training provided was a hands-on session on the preparation of salted quail eggs, where participants learned the step-by-step process of producing value-added products that can support household income.

Beneficiaries were provided with the needed materials—quail eggs, salt, containers, and water—to complete the salting process. Each group prepared its own brine solution, marking the initial stage of transforming raw farm products into potential livelihood commodities.

Present during the event were faculty members of the department, namely Romiel John P. Basan, the project leader, Jennet RM, Helen Abidong, Macailing Metche Anne Casinillo, Logronio Roy, Bornilla Gacus, Rhenalie Neyra-Bello, and Kathleen Ivy Bolotaolo, along with officers of the Junior Philippine Economics Society–USM Chapter and BS AgEcon alumni. The AgEcon department is expected to return to the area after 13 days to monitor the outcome of the salted quail eggs and continue supporting the community in this livelihood initiative.

This activity highlights the dedication of the Department of Agricultural Economics to fostering community empowerment and supporting resilient livelihoods that contribute directly to long-term economic development.