By Karren Jay G. Asgar

Jennifer Christie Avenir, Chief Sanitation Inspector VI, presents an insightful discussion on the key provisions of Presidential Decree No. 856, also known as the ‘Code on Sanitation of the Philippines.’

On April 2, 2025, Central Philippine University hosted the first-ever Food Handlers Orientation Seminar on Food Safety, Sanitation, and Health at the Educational Media Center. A total of 100 attendees, comprising owners, managers, and staff of food stalls operating on campus participated in the seminar, which aimed to provide an overview of the policies and provisions outlined in Presidential Decree No. 856, also known as the “Code on Sanitation of the Philippines.”

The event was made possible through the collaboration of the Auxiliary Enterprises, led by Mr. Ernie Molinos Solatorio; the Occupational Safety and Health Office, headed by Mr. Prim C. Vergara III; and the Food Safety Committee, chaired by Dr. Florentino Alera II.

“CPU is focused on the type of food being served to the students,” said Mr. Prim C. Vergara III in an interview. “As mandated by the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, we ensure that only safe and nutritious food is served across the campus.”

The seminar aimed to ensure compliance with the provisions of Presidential Decree No. 856 while also discussing the university’s food safety and management policies. It specifically emphasized the guidelines set forth in DepEd orders regarding the types of food that can be sold on campus.

“During the seminar, Presidential Decree No. 856 was extensively covered. It highlights the ‘farm-to-table’ principle, which not only focuses on the cooking and serving of food but also encompasses the entire food production process,” Vergara added.

The orientation on CPU policies was thoroughly discussed by Mr. Prim C. Vergara III, Occupational Safety and Health Officer 4. This was followed by an overview of the key provisions of Presidential Decree No. 856, also known as the “Code on Sanitation of the Philippines,” presented by Jennifer Christie Avenir, Chief Sanitation Inspector VI. The topic on social relations and communication was addressed by Cheryl H. Muhallin, Sanitation Inspector IV of the Jaro I District.

A delegation from the Iloilo City Health Office – Environmental Sanitation Division, led by Jennifer Christie Avenir, Chief Sanitation Inspector VI, and Cheryl H. Muhallin, Sanitation Inspector IV, graced the event. The team also included Lessie Grace Puertollano, Sanitation Inspector IV, and Arleen Calvo, Sanitation Inspector IV.

The success of the seminar highlights CPU’s commitment to maintaining a safe and nutritious food environment for all its students. The insights shared during the seminar are sure to contribute to the improvement of food handling practices on campus, ensuring a healthier and safer dining experience for everyone.