Herbal firm gets license through DoST intervention

BONG Galon Herbal Oil in Bukidnon, Northern Mindanao acquired a license to operate through the assistance of consultancy and training services of the Department of Science and Technology (DoST).

After passing the evaluations and inspections mandated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that led to the issuance of the company’s license to operate (LTO), the firm is now able to cater its customers in different regions, including those as far as Sarangani province, General Santos and Davao City.

The DoST’s comprehensive training in good manufacturing practices (GMP) strengthened the firm’s quality assurance and documentation.

The training included creating GMP manuals with a specific focus on sanitation, hygiene, packaging, labeling, and plant layout mentoring.

To further enhance the products and processes, the DoST brought consultants to the processing area in the Municipality of Maramag through the manufacturing productivity extension program.

The initiative aimed at improving product quality and production efficiency and making the firm competitive in both local and international markets.

Salvador “Bong” Galon, founder and CEO of the firm, expressed his profound excitement and pride with his remarkable achievement.

“After waiting for 24 years, I am filled with great joy because I have achieved my dream of obtaining a license to operate from the FDA,” said Galon.

“With the help of DoST, I have truly achieved this goal and aspiration,” he added.

Bong Galon upgraded its technology with DoST’s Small Enterprise

Technology Upgrading Program (Setup), enhancing herbal oil filling and capping processes.

Through Setup, the firm now produces 4,100 bottles monthly, marking a 39-percent increase in post-DoST intervention. As the first in the Health and Wellness Category assisted by DoST-Bukidnon to secure FDA-LTO, Bong Galon Herbal Oil sets a high benchmark for MSMEs, showcasing its commitment to regulatory standards and product quality, driving progress in the province’s health and wellness sector.