The Landas Agricultural Cooperative (LACOOP) in Mangaldan, Pangasinan, has officially started producing squash pancit canton, an initiative that offers a new source of livelihood for residents.

The cooperative has set up a fully equipped production facility in Barangay Landas, complete with a mixer, noodle sheeter cutter, boiler, and fryer.

LACOOP members see this as a big opportunity, especially for stay-at-home mothers and unemployed residents.

“Mas maganda kung may kooperatiba ang isang barangay para lahat ng kapitbahay na walang trabaho, mga nanay, pwede silang mag-apply ng trabaho para makatulong,” Francis Quinit, a cooperative member, said.

LACOOP currently has 21 members, all residents of Barangay Landas. They can work at the factory and receive both salaries and dividends as investors.

Even non-residents of Barangay Landas are welcome to join the cooperative.

“Suportahan po ninyo para marami tayong matulungan. Hindi lang sa mga miyembro ng kooperatiba, kundi pati sa mga kababayan natin na nangangailangan ng tulong,” Alejandro Quinit, LACOOP Chairman, said.

LACOOP is still finalizing the pricing for their squash pancit canton, but they promise it will be cheaper than other brands.

Once ready, the product will be sold in Mangaldan and nearby towns.

The cooperative hopes that with community support, their squash pancit canton business will grow, helping more residents find stable income.