DOST 1’s OneASIN Ushers in New Era for Ilocos Norte Salt Industry

A groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony at SOLA Hotel, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, marked a pivotal step in advancing the salt industry of Ilocos Norte through the One in Accelerating Salt Innovations (OneASIN) initiative. Spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST-1), in collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR-1), DOST – Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-1), Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), and Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), the program aims to unify efforts to modernize the salt industry. Through innovative processes, advanced technologies, enhanced policies, and sustainable marketing strategies, OneASIN aspires to transform salt production into a more efficient, competitive, and community-empowering sector.

Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, the visionary behind OneASIN, highlighted that the program aims to drive advancements in the salt industry by fostering unity in enhancing processes, equipment, and policies. She explained that the initiative empowers salt makers by providing innovative solutions to ensure a sustainable future for the industry. DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum lauded the OneASIN program, highlighting its people-centric approach. He noted its alignment with the national objective of reducing reliance on imported salt while maximizing local resources to uplift communities. “Sa Siyensya at Teknolohiya, Negosyo ay tiyak na kikita. Sa Siyensya at Teknolohiya, Industriya ng Asin ay aarangkada,” he stated.

Ilocos Norte Governor Hon. Matthew Marcos-Manotoc commended DOST’s grassroots initiatives, highlighting OneASIN’s success in combining community empowerment with technological innovation to create a sustainable salt industry. He also acknowledged the Philippine Coconut Authority’s (PCA) vital role in ensuring a steady market for locally produced salt. PCA Administrator Dr. Dexter Buted emphasized the synergy between the salt and coconut industries, noting salt’s critical role in boosting coconut production. He pledged PCA’s support by committing to procure salt from Ilocos Norte’s producers, strengthening both community livelihoods and provincial sustainability.

The event also included the signing of additional agreements, notably a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DOST-1 and the municipalities of Burgos and Pasuquin. In Burgos, the agreement focuses on the establishment of SALT Hub: Sustainable Advancement in Local Salt Technology Hub which serves as Ilocos Norte Salt Products’ Laboratory, which will serve as a center for research, development, and the production of value-added salt products. Meanwhile, in Pasuquin, the agreement supports the implementation of OneASIN through various initiatives, including technical training on food safety, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), packaging, labeling, and the introduction of innovative salt-making equipment to modernize and empower the local salt-making community.

The event showcased insightful presentations by experts on innovations in salt production and maintaining quality standards. Dr. Andie John Tadeo of DMMMSU highlighted the production of sea salt using high-density polyethylene-lined ponds and advanced filtration systems, offering a modern approach to enhance efficiency and output. Engr. Brian Rasco of DOST-1 provided an overview of the collaboration and complementation of programs designed to strengthen Ilocos Norte’s salt-making industry. Additionally, Ms. Lena Rosario, Rch and Mr. Hero Galamgam, PFT from the DOST-1 Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory (RSTL) emphasized the services offered and importance of food safety and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) in ensuring that the salt produced meets high-quality standards and is safe for consumer use.

Ilocos Norte’s salt industry, through the OneASIN initiative, showcases how innovation and collaboration can modernize traditional practices. With facilities like the SALT Hub and support for local makers, it sets a model for sustainable, competitive salt production, inspiring similar advancements across the Philippines.(Christian Casimiro)