DMMMSU through the Fisheries Research and Training Institute (FRTI) is spearheading the revival of salt making industry in La Union. Dr. Andie John D. Tadeo and Dr. Junifer Rey E. Tabafunda lead this DMMMSU-funded project.

“We’re thankful for Dr. Cynthia M. Rodriguez, former VP for research who gave us the idea of conducting the project in FRTI which is located in Balaoan, La Union, and Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. for allocating funds for this project” Dr. Tadeo shared in a short interview.

“We also thank Dr. Westly R. Rosario who serves as our consultant in the implementation of the project,” he added.

Blessed with crystal clear waters, FRTI is a haven for salt production. It is a home to diverse aquatic resources such as seaweeds, sea grass, sea cucumber, sea urchin and fin fishes—all of which help facilitate and maintain the cleanliness of the coastal waters. The salinity of coastal waters in Balaoan, ranges from 35-40 ppt which makes it suitable for salt production.  

Salt production in FRTI is done using the solar evaporation method in high-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) food grade plastic platform. Solar evaporation method is the oldest method of salt production. This is ideal in warm climates as evaporation rates exceed precipitation rates. This method retains ions such as chloride, sodium, sulfate, magnesium, calcium, and potassium which are abundant in salt water. Results of the evaluation show that the salt produced using this method passed the standards for food grade salt.

On March 4, 5, 7 and 8, 2020, FRTI extended the technology through trainings which were sponsored by the Philippine Red Cross. Four hundred sixty-eight (468) participants from four Barangays in Luna (Rimos 2,3, 4, 5) and three Barangays in Bangar (Paratong 3,4, Norte) benefitted from the training.

Another training for 25 participants, sponsored by Innerwheel Club Central of San Fernando, was conducted at Pandan, Bacnotan, La Union on March 16, 2022. Also, on April 4, a ceremony for the opening of Brgy, Paratong 3 Solar Sea Salt Farm was conducted. Present during the Ceremony were Hon. Joy Pinzon-Merin, Mayor of Bangar, La Union; DMMMSU FRTI Personnel; Dr. Angeline Gonzales, VP for Research and Extension; Dr. Violeta Collado, Head for NLUC Extension; and Philippine Red Cross-La Union Administrator, Ms. Almira Abrazado. (Stories on these will follow).

The revival of sea salt making industry in La Union is envisioned to help reduce salt importation in the country. (Ayu)