From humble beginnings in Barangay Urbiztondo, Claver, Surigao del Norte, to securing a License to Operate as a food manufacturer from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Urbiztondo Crop Producers’ Cooperative (UCPC) is making a name for itself, one cassava chip at a time.
On March 12, 2025, the cooperative, composed of 21 women, officially received its FDA certification following a rigorous inspection and compliance process.
This milestone now allows UCPC to formally scale up its food production and expand its market, paving the way for greater opportunities for its members and the community.
Best known for their “Crunchy Krunch” Cassava Chips, UCPC also produces a variety of traditional Filipino root crop delicacies such as cassava cake, pichi-pichi, biko, and kutsinta.
Situated near the Urbiztondo public market, their processing facility and display center serve as a hub of activity for these women-entrepreneurs who have transformed their skills into sustainable income sources.
The cooperative’s journey was made possible through the steadfast support of Taganito Mining Corporation (TMC) through its Social Development and Management Program (SDMP).
Recognizing the economic potential of cassava and the livelihood opportunity for the women, TMC initiated a series of interventions for the group starting in 2014. These included trainings on cassava farming, food processing and value-adding, customer relations, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
In 2017, TMC turned over a production building and display center to the group complete with equipment to help boost their product sales and visibility.
As the cooperative’s operations grew, so did the need for better facilities. In 2024, TMC again extended its support by turning over a processing facility, enabling the group to meet increasing demand and improve food safety standards — a key step in their journey toward FDA compliance.
“We are filled with gratitude and pride to reach this milestone as we can now display our products inside groceries and malls. From participating in exhibits and trade fairs within and outside Caraga region, to catering orders for TMC’s visitors, this is indeed a blessing to us members. Thank you so much to TMC for the unwavering support and guidance,” shared Lorna Arguelles, UCPC production manager.
With their newly acquired FDA license and continued support from TMC, the women of UCPC are ready to bring their products — and their dreams — to even greater heights.
