By Thiago Santos Salt production methods, including proper harvesting and processing techniques. (Photo from Batangas PIO) BATANGAS CITY...
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| Salt production methods, including proper harvesting and processing techniques. (Photo from Batangas PIO) |
BATANGAS CITY - The Provincial Government of Batangas, led by the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAg), will be joining forces to address the declining local salt production in the Philippines through collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region IV-A.
This collaboration will involve sharing knowledge and expertise, conducting training programs, and implementing sustainable practices to ensure a steady supply of high-quality salt in the region.
In a recent interview with John Mark Pangilinan and Paul John Caunan from the Provincial Agriculturist, it was revealed that the partnership aims to increase the production of salt in Batangas by implementing various strategies and initiatives.
Based on the data presented by OPAg, in the year 1990, 85% was the percentage or height of the volume in the local production of salt in the country, while 15% was from salt importation. But, in the year 2021, there was a sharp drop in the volume of locally produced salt to 7%, which means that 93% is all imported salt.
This decline in local production has had a significant impact on the livelihoods of salt farmers, as they are facing increased competition from imported salt and struggling to find stable markets for their products.
In this regard, the employees of BFAR IV-A immediately had a courtesy call or visit with the Provincial Administrator and current In-Charge of the Provincial Planning and Development Office, Wilfredo Racelis, who represented Gov. Mandanas. Here, BFAR presented the sea salt production project in the province and discussed the potential benefits it could bring to the local economy.
They highlighted the need for support in terms of infrastructure development, such as improving salt drying facilities and transportation networks, to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the salt production industry.
Additionally, BFAR emphasized the importance of conducting capacity-building programs for salt farmers to improve their skills and knowledge in salt production techniques, ensuring high-quality output that can meet market demands.
The provincial government owns land in Barangay Imelda in the Town of San Juan, which is where this project will take place. Because of this, it is expected not only to increase the production of salt in the province but also to help the marginalized fisherfolks of the said area as beneficiaries of the salt production project.
The project aims to provide training and workshops on modern salt production methods, including proper harvesting and processing techniques. By equipping the salt farmers with these skills, they will be able to enhance their productivity and ultimately improve their livelihoods.
According to OPAg staff, it is appropriate to use the sun-drying method of making salt in the identified area because of its abundant sunlight and favorable climate conditions. The project will also provide access to necessary equipment and resources, such as solar drying beds and salt pans, to ensure efficient and effective salt production. This holistic approach will empower marginalized fisherfolks to become self-sufficient and economically stable through sustainable salt farming practices.
OPAg will manage the project, and BFAR will provide materials and other technical assistance to support the implementation of salt farming techniques. Additionally, local government units will be involved in the project to provide regulatory support and ensure compliance with environmental standards.
They also said that the beneficiaries would not pay anything for this. They said it is only necessary to protect the identified production area for better implementation of the salt production project.
Furthermore, the project aims to enhance the livelihoods of local communities by creating employment opportunities and increasing income generation through the sale of salt products. The involvement of local government units will also help in establishing a sustainable framework for long-term success and continued support for the salt farming industry.
In addition, during the harvest season, it is said that approximately half a kilo of salt can be produced in just three or four days. This, they said, will only be monitored daily and will monitor the crystallization process or the presence of granular salt.
The agriculturists expressed their gratitude to the national government for bringing this project to the province. They said it was only appropriate because the coastline of Batangas is wide and suitable for salt farming.
OPAg also stated that the Capitol's embrace of this program is just the beginning, and they will continue to contact other coastal municipalities to extend this initiative of the provincial government, especially since OPAg is already trying to have its own funds to help other towns in Batangas.
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