From its highly successful by-products of Tamarind (sampalok), the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) has ventured into the production of Mulberry tea, boosting livelihood opportunities in Magalang town and adjoining areas.
PSAU president Dr. Anita David said that the state university is pursuing plans for the production of mulberry tea that will be exported to Japan.
She was guest at KapiHann, a media forum of the Pampanga Press Club at Hann Casino Resort. She was joined by PSAU executives Dr. Lyndon Solis, Vice President for Planning and Resource Generation; Dr. Sylvia De Guzman, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Madeliene Solis, Dean, College of Engineering and Computer Studies; and Dr. Neil Tanquilut, Dean,College of Veterinary Medicine.
The beverage is said to have medicinal properties that help in weight loss, blood sugar and cholesterol reduction.
David said PSAU has gotten funding from JICA and has partnered with a Japanese company Kuwanosato Inc. The team project is now on research phase and is hoped to be rolled out to the market this year.
She added that PSAU is hosting the factory and plantation in order to meet the 20 metric tons for production. This is expected to create jobs and farming opportunities for hundreds of workers.
PSAU is widely known for its success in producing the Aglibut variety of Tamarind. Aside from the candies and preserves, other by-products include juice, wine and jam. These products, also exported to other countries, have been featured in several TV programs, magazines and newspapers.
An article in the JICA webpage states that mulberry tea making equipment from Japan was installed in early 2020. However Covid-19 restrictions hampered its use.
The article added that “the factory can process up to 500kg of raw leaves in 8 hours, producing around 100kg of mulberry tea.”
