Tagkawayan launches solar salt project for coastal communities

By Rowena Cruz Mayor Carlo Eleazar addresses the community during the launch of the solar salt project, emphasizing the transformative poten...

By Rowena Cruz

Mayor Carlo Eleazar addresses the community during the launch of the solar salt project, emphasizing the transformative potential of this initiative for coastal livelihoods. (Tagkawayan PIO)

TAGKAWAYAN, Quezon - Solar salt production, recognized as one of the most efficient converters of solar energy, is at the heart of a project launched by the Municipal Government of Tagkawayan in Barangay Katimo on March 4, 2025. This method boasts a high conversion rate of sunlight into usable salt, maximizing the region's abundant solar resources.

Coastal livelihoods are transformed with a sustainable income alternative. It highlights the critical role of economic diversification in bolstering the resilience of coastal communities. The region's abundant sunlight will be harnessed to empower residents to establish a sustainable salt production industry, fostering economic resilience and long-term prosperity.



Valued at nearly P400,000.00, the project will directly benefit members of the Sama-Samang Itaguyod Kaunlaran at Tagumpay ng Katimo Aplaya (SIKAT-KA) association, boosting their economic stability.

This project, a collaboration between the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR IV-A), the Quezon Provincial Fisheries Office, and the local government, provides residents with an alternative income source through solar salt production.

Mayor Carlo Eleazar addresses the community during the launch of the solar salt project, emphasizing the transformative potential of this initiative for coastal livelihoods. Eleazar expressed gratitude to BFAR IV-A for the valuable opportunity extended to the coastal barangays. Alongside him, members of the Sangguniang Bayan and officials from the Barangay Katimo Sangguniang Barangay, led by Ronaldo Oquindo, actively participated in the launch.

Launch ceremony featured key representatives from BFAR IV-A: Hermosa Ramirez, Salt Industry Project Focal Person; Mr. Ernest John Laureles, Aquaculturist I; and MAO Juanito Panganiban. Romeo Plamio, President of SIKAT-KA, and other distinguished guests also attended.

"This project is about empowering our coastal communities and providing them with the tools they need to build a brighter future," stated Mayor Eleazar during the launch. "By harnessing the power of the sun, we are not only creating sustainable livelihoods but also contributing to a cleaner environment for generations to come."

Underscoring the collaborative spirit of the project, Mayor Eleazar emphasized the crucial role that community engagement plays in achieving long-term success. He highlighted the importance of shared responsibility and the collective effort required to ensure the initiative's sustainability.

"The success of this project hinges on the active participation and dedication of the residents. We are confident that with their hard work and determination, this initiative will thrive and become a model for other coastal communities." he added.

Implementation and long-term sustainability are the current focus, encompassing training on solar salt production techniques, quality control, and marketing strategies. To ensure success and potential expansion, BFAR IV-A and the local government have committed to regular monitoring and evaluation to address any challenges.