By Leander C. Domingo
THROUGH a technology licensing agreement (TLA), the Ilocos Norte-based Mariano Marcos University (MMSU) has partnered with the Rayuray Farmers Cooperative (RFAC) to expand the market for brown rice products by commercializing MMSU Brown Rice Krispies and Brown Rice Coffee.

The TLA focuses on the crucial role of technology transfer in turning academic research into commercially viable products.

It was signed by MMSU Officer in Charge President Prima Fe Franco, MMSU Director of Innovation and Technology Dionisio Bucao, RFAC Chairman Guillermo Quemquem represented by RFAC manager Jorge Suguitan and RFAC secretary Infenita Puyot.

The signing ceremony on September 23 was witnessed by staff members and employees of MMSU Innovation and Technology, RFAC and the Philippine Rice Research Institute, a government corporate entity attached to the Department of Agriculture.

Franco underscored the importance of developing technologies that have real-world applications, particularly those that can benefit the local economy and promote agricultural sustainability.

She noted that the commercialization of MMSU Brown Rice Krispies and Brown Rice Coffee is “a testament to the university’s dedication to producing research-driven innovations that serve the community.”

Promoting the sustainable use of local crops, Franco also expressed confidence that the partnership will “yield significant benefits for local farmers and consumers alike,” adding that the commercialization of Brown Rice Krispies is expected to stimulate demand for brown rice, particularly the Hiami variety.

On the other hand, the production of Brown Rice Coffee will support the local coffee farming industry, offering farmers the chance to participate in the growing market for premium, locally made rice coffee.

Kathrina Antonio of the MMSU Strategic Communication Office said the Brown Rice Krispies was created by Technology Generators Felicitas Sanculi, Eleazer Grande, Jerson Coloma and Hazel Bartolome.

On the other hand, Antonio said the Brown Rice Coffee, a unique blend of coffee that highlights the best flavors and quality of roasted brown rice, was created by Grande, Sanculi and Dionisio Bucao.

With assistance from the MMSU Technology Business Incubation and PhilRice, “RFAC will be able to use the facilities and equipment of the MMSU Food Innovation Center and participate in specialized training and coaching sessions,” Antonio said.

She added that by working closely with local cooperatives, “the university ensures that its innovations directly impact the local economy while also addressing the needs of consumers.”

Published Date: October 3, 2024