Farmers in the central Philippines are testing a new eco-friendly drying machine that combines geothermal and solar energy, in what officials describe as a step towards more sustainable and safer crop processing.
The technology, called the Multi-Commodity Hydrothermal Dehydrator, was developed in the island province of Marinduque through a partnership between a local innovator and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the MIMAROPA region.
It is designed to dry produce such as bananas, coconuts and moringa leaves more efficiently, while reducing the risk of contamination linked to open-air methods.
Dual-source drying system
Unlike conventional dryers, the unit draws heat from two renewable sources: solar panels and geothermal water from the Malbog hot spring in Buenavista, Marinduque.
By harnessing energy that would otherwise go untapped, developers say the machine lowers operating costs for farmers while offering a cleaner alternative to fuel-based or outdoor drying.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr said the project reflects both local ingenuity and the potential of collaborative science initiatives.
He noted that the hot spring, once used only for bathing, now serves an agricultural purpose by providing the heat needed to dehydrate crops.
“This is about more than just innovation,” Solidum said in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency.
“It is about sustainability, food safety and empowering local farmers with clean technology.”
The dehydrator functions like an oven, removing moisture from products ranging from banana chips to soursop leaves and copra.
READ MORE: Philippines explores hydrothermal energy for agricultural processing
Community impact
Local leaders in Malbog have welcomed the introduction of the machine, saying it could open up new income sources for smallholder farmers who rely heavily on crops vulnerable to spoilage.
Barangay Captain Restituto Pabalat expressed optimism that the project would strengthen livelihoods in the community.
“We have full confidence that this technology will create new opportunities for our farmers,” he said.
The shift away from traditional sun drying also addresses food safety concerns.
Open-air drying exposes produce to dust, pests and unpredictable weather, often leading to quality losses.
By contrast, the controlled environment of the dehydrator allows for more consistent results and reduces post-harvest waste.
Officials said the Marinduque project demonstrates how renewable energy and applied science can work together to support agriculture, particularly in remote areas where farmers often face limited access to modern processing tools.
By lowering costs and improving food safety, the technology is expected to help small-scale producers capture more value from their harvests, potentially setting a model for replication in other regions of the country.
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