Philippine Salt Production Surpasses 199,000 Metric Tons as BFAR Revitalizes Coastal Industry

 

Philippine Salt Industry Gains Momentum as Local Production Tops 199,000 Metric Tons

The Philippine salt industry is showing renewed strength after domestic production exceeded 199,000 metric tons during the first six months of the year. The milestone reflects the growing impact of government programs aimed at restoring local salt manufacturing, strengthening rural economies, and gradually reducing the country's dependence on imported salt.

At the center of this recovery is the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) through its Development of Salt Industry Project (DSIP). The initiative focuses on rebuilding the country's salt-producing capacity by modernizing production methods, improving infrastructure, and creating stable livelihood opportunities for coastal residents. Rather than treating salt farming as a declining traditional practice, the program positions it as a sustainable economic activity capable of supporting communities for years to come.

According to BFAR, the substantial increase in the output of artisanal, solar, and cooking salt demonstrates that targeted investments and technical assistance are beginning to produce measurable results. National Director Elizer Salilig emphasized that the agency remains committed to expanding its support to help the industry realize its full economic potential.

One of the clearest examples of this transformation can be found in Barangay Tawagan Sur in Pagadian City. A local organization that originally focused on seaweed farming has successfully reinvented itself as a salt-producing community. Composed of 19 members, the majority of whom are women, the group has embraced salt production as a new source of income and community development.

Their success did not happen by chance. Before production began, BFAR conducted extensive site evaluations and salinity assessments to determine whether the location could sustain efficient salt farming. After confirming its suitability, the agency supplied critical facilities and equipment, including solar beds, greenhouse tunnel-type salt dryers, elevated drying platforms, storage buildings, and operational tools that significantly improved production efficiency.

The investment quickly translated into results. During 2025, the community produced nearly seven metric tons of premium-quality salt. Its operations have since expanded into a well-equipped production facility featuring 12 ground-level solar beds, four greenhouse salt dryers, 19 elevated solar dryers, and two storage structures capable of supporting larger harvests.

The next phase of development is already underway. BFAR Regional Office IX plans to provide an iodizing machine within the year, enabling producers to increase the market value of their products while meeting nutritional standards. At the same time, the Department of Science and Technology is contributing technical expertise to improve iodization processes and encourage the creation of value-added salt products that can open new commercial opportunities.

Pagadian City Agriculturist Engr. Ramon Rodrigo noted that the revival of the local salt industry demonstrates what can be achieved when government support is combined with community participation and technical knowledge. The progress seen in Tawagan Sur illustrates how modern production methods and organized local efforts can generate high-quality products while creating dependable sources of income for coastal families.

The broader significance extends beyond production figures. A stronger domestic salt industry enhances food security, supports small-scale producers, and helps keep more economic activity within the country. Like rebuilding a vital foundation beneath a structure, investing in local salt production reinforces multiple sectors that rely on this essential commodity.

With production continuing to rise nationwide, BFAR intends to expand the Development of Salt Industry Project to additional coastal areas. The agency envisions more communities following the example set by Tawagan Sur, helping transform the Philippine salt industry into a resilient contributor to national economic growth while preserving an important coastal livelihood for future generations.