The proud and famous producer of Merzci Bread and Pastries from the City of Smiles that is Bacolod, CM and Sons Food Products, Incorporated, launched the DOST-FNRI IFR at the L’Fishers Hotel, Bacolod City on August 18, 2023. Mr. Jonathan Manuel T. Lo, Merzci CEO and President, led the launch together with his wife, Mrs. Lisabelle Lo and son, Mr. Jeremy Manuel Lo.
Dr. Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa, the DOST-FNRI Director IV and Scientist IV graced the event as guest of honor. Dr. Agdeppa underscored in her message that “the DOST-FNRI remains committed in ensuring optimal nutrition for Filipinos”. “The Institute consistently applies innovations to food technologies, which are then licensed to qualified MSMEs across the country”, Dr. Agdeppa added. She declared that “this is aligned with and in response to DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr.’s mantra: Science for the People, One DOST 4 U”.
The launch of Iron Rice Plus brand of CM and Sons Food Products, Incorporated includes the IFR and IRP technologies of DOST-FNRI. The milestone event is the embodiment of a vision that has been nurtured through the unwavering dedication and steadfast collaboration with the government and private sectors to address malnutrition among Filipinos.
Also present at the launch were Councilor Jude Thaddeus Sayson, representing Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez, Bacolod City Lone District Representative Greg Gasataya, and other representatives from the DOST-FNRI, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Department of Education (DepEd) Central Office, DepEd Division of Himamaylan City, DepEd Region 6 and 7, National Food Authority (NFA) Negros, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 6, DOST Region 6, and Department of Health (DOH) Region 6.
Dr. Agdeppa, conveyed the DOST-FNRI’s full support to the successful production and promotion of IFR and IRP by CM and Sons Food Products, Incorporated.
The notable achievements that the CM and Sons Food Products, Incorporated has gained over time is especially evident in the accomplishments of Merzci and its diverse selection of bakery, fast food, and culinary souvenir items that form part of the prominent heritage of the food sector.
This legacy is defined by unwavering dedication to the welfare of the community, particularly on nutrition improvement.
Such commitment is exemplified by adopting more of the DOST-FNRI developed nutritious food products like the Enhanced Nutribun squash, carrot, and sweetpotato variants that are intended to benefit valued patrons. While sustaining growth and prosperity, the company’s dedication to help improve nutrition remains resolute.
by Jaypy S. De Juan, Senior Science Research Specialist
