Manila: The Halog West Producers Cooperative in Tubao, La Union, has successfully turned a challenge into an opportunity by transforming pest-affected white corn crops into a profitable business of producing chichacorn, a crunchy white corn snack. This venture has provided an additional source of income for its members.
According to Philippines News Agency, Vanessa Mapalo, the cooperative's secretary and a member, stated that since 2009, the group of 172 members, predominantly farmers and their families, has been engaged in the production of chichacorn. Initially, the cooperative faced significant losses due to pests affecting their white corn crops. However, the decision to produce chichacorn has allowed them to utilize the damaged crops effectively.
The cooperative originally operated as a grocery shop but transitioned into production with support and training from local and provincial government entities, as well as national agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). Mapalo noted that the members were inspired to start chichacorn production after learning from existing producers in the industry.
In 2014, the cooperative secured a Food and Drug Administration license to operate and distribute their product, marking a significant milestone in their entrepreneurial journey. The cooperative has since grown from a microenterprise to a small enterprise, with aspirations to advance to a medium enterprise in the near future.
The cooperative has achieved a gross income exceeding PHP1.4 million solely from the production of chichacorn. Their clientele includes Pasalubong Centers and online buyers, and they actively participate in trade fairs to expand their market reach. Last year, the members produced 8.5 tons of white corn, with over five tons processed into chichacorn.
Mapalo highlighted that the cooperative has established its own processing center, equipped with necessary machinery, through collaboration with the local government unit, DAR, and the cooperative's 20 percent equity. Additionally, the cooperative is exploring product diversification by perfecting banana chips and creating flower decorations from corn leaves.
