Marivic Barcellano of Tiblong Flavored Salt stands proudly at her stall during a trade fair held in a mall in Dagupan City. (Photo by Eva Visperas)

A story of perseverance, unity, and hope defines the success of the Tiblong Salt Association in the coastal town of San Fabian.

Led by its president, Marivic Barcellano—the woman behind the proudly local brand “Tiblong’s Flavored Salt”—the group’s livelihood journey began in 2019 through the Community-Based Livelihood Program of the 4th District of Pangasinan.

The project aimed to empower women from Barangay Tiblong, San Fabian, by providing them with the opportunity to create and manage their own product.

“It was Congressman Toff’s idea to develop flavored salt,” Barcellano shared. “He encouraged us and even sent someone to train us on how to make it. That’s where everything started,” she added.

With only basic materials such as cooking gas (butane), bottles, and a few ingredients, the women began their small business. Over time, the group’s efforts flourished with continuous guidance and support from local leaders who helped them gain the skills and tools they needed to grow.

“The people who believed in us never abandoned us,” said Barcellano. “They continue to help and promote our product wherever they go,” she added.

Today, the Tiblong Salt Association has 18 members—mostly homemakers and barangay workers. With assistance from government agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the group has received certifications, equipment, and financial support that strengthened their operations.

Their line of products now includes six flavored salts: Black Pepper, Wine, Calamansi, Chili, Rosemary, and Garlic—the last two being their bestsellers.

The group regularly joins trade fairs and Kadiwa events to promote their brand. As their flavored salt continues to gain recognition in Pangasinan and beyond, Barcellano hopes that more women will be inspired to build sustainable livelihoods from their local resources.

“Our success is built on patience, love for our work, and faith,” she said. “We’ve found not just a livelihood, but a source of pride and hope for our community,” she said. (Eva Visperas)