Tacloban: The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has opened the country's first glycogen extraction facility in this city, which can convert green mussels into high-value glycogen for diverse applications.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOST - Eastern Visayas Director John Glenn Oca±a stated in a phone interview that the project, inaugurated on Wednesday, is expected to foster new socio-economic development for the region. Primarily funded by the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), the PHP8-million facility is located within a property of the University of the Philippines in Barangay New Kawayan.

Oca±a mentioned that the project will receive additional funding from the DOST regional office for the UP Tacloban project, formally titled "Sustainable Strategies for Mussel Glycogen Upscale Production." The facility aims to address the frequent red tide phenomenon, which affects the livelihood of local fishers.

Even during red tide occurrences, which render green mussels unsafe for consumption, the mussels' meat can still be processed into glycogen for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The DOST highlighted that mussel glycogen, due to its unique properties, marks a significant advancement in sustainable production and innovation.

Oca±a noted that the project is set to boost the economic growth of Eastern Visayas and facilitate progress in industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food production. The project promises significant benefits not just for the industry but also for mussel farmers and communities directly involved.

Several bays in the region are identified as susceptible to red tide occurrences, a phenomenon characterized by water discoloration due to high algal biomass or algae concentration.