Batac city: Three agribusiness students from the state-run Mariano Marcos State University in Batac City are set to represent their institution in a national competition with an innovative enterprise that transforms an underutilized agricultural by-product into a value-added snack.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sheena Shane Dacanay, Danica Layan, and Shina Marie Calderon secured a PHP250,000 cash grant and plaques of recognition during the recently concluded Regional Intercollegiate Competition under the Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) program of the Department of Agriculture. The trio impressed judges with their agribusiness innovation, SAHA Crunch-a healthy, crispy snack made from banana pseudostem.

The team described their product as affordable and nutritious, catering to students, health-conscious consumers, and anyone seeking a tasty alternative to regular chips. They emphasized that SAHA Crunch promotes sustainability and supports local farmers while providing a guilt-free snacking experience.

Michael Vincent Vea, the team coach, shared with the Philippine News Agency that the three students plan to utilize the grant to further improve SAHA Crunch. The YFC program underscores the role of youth as pivotal to achieving a Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas (Progressive New Philippines), aligning with the advocacies of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

The YFC program is designed to empower Filipino youths interested in agriculture-based activities. It offers competitive financial grant assistance to those venturing into farming, fishing, animal raising, and other agri-fishery enterprises. The program includes various components such as Start-Up, Upscale, and Intercollegiate, providing financial grants, mentorship, development support, market linkages, and exposure.