2nd Salt Congress paves way for innovation and sustainability
THE Philippine salt industry has taken significant strides towards revitalization, charting a sustainable and innovative path with the conclusion of the 2nd Philippine Salt Congress held on December 12-13 at the Pangasinan State University (PSU).
With the theme “SALT: Sustainable Actions in People’s Lives through Technology in the Salt Industry,” the congress was participated in by government agencies, the private sector, and academic institutions.
Together, they focused on addressing key challenges facing the industry, exploring innovative solutions, and fostering greater self-sufficiency in local salt production, both for household and industry use.
Organized by the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and PSU, the congress underscored the importance of integrating sustainable practices and cutting-edge technologies in enhancing the country’s salt industry.
Key sessions at the congress discussed the DA-BFAR’s OPLAN ASIN program, the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act (RA 11985), and DOST’s initiatives such as the SALT and OneASIN programs, all of which aim to enhance salt production and processing capabilities nationwide.
These programs seek to address the country’s dependence on imported salt, which currently meets only 16.78% of domestic demand.
PSU president Elbert Galas emphasized the university’s vital role in advancing research and innovation in the salt sector, particularly through its Accelerating Salt Research and Innovation (ASIN) Center. PSU also secured a ₱90-million grant from the DOST’s Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) to enhance salt research further and support local production.
Another highlight of the congress was the collaboration between different government agencies, notably the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)
Pangasinan, long known for its salt-producing areas, is a key player in the country’s salt industry revival. The provincial government is the first local government unit to operate a large-scale salt farm, located in Barangay Zaragosa, Bolinao. (Eva Visperas)
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
