VIRAC, Catanduanes — Plans to expand the salt industry in Catanduanes gained further momentum after Salinas Foods Inc. expressed its commitment to support not only salt production but also the marketing and business development of salt-based products in the province.
During a press conference held on June 29, Johnny Khonghun said their company aims to help Catandunganons generate additional livelihood opportunities by strengthening the local salt industry through the “Asinsado Project.”
According to Khonghun, former governor Cely Wong was among the first to promote the livelihood initiative in Catanduanes, and the company is pleased that the project is now being continued and expanded under the administration of Governor Patrick Alan T. Azanza.
The company’s technical team earlier conducted on-site inspections in the municipalities of Virac, San Andres, Caramoran, and Pandan to assess the potential of the areas for salt-making and salt-processing facilities.
Based on the assessment, the company said the municipalities possess strong potential for salt production due to favorable conditions for salt beds and other processing facilities.
During the press conference, the company also called for support from the media, business sector, and other stakeholders to help promote and expand the market for locally produced salt products.
Salinas Foods management likewise said they are open to partnering with individuals or groups interested in entering the salt-related business. The company also expressed willingness to temporarily assist in providing market access for products while local producers continue to expand their operations.
“The company is willing to initially help with market access to support aspiring entrepreneurs and livelihood starters,” company representatives said during the press conference.
Among the products introduced by the company was its Salinas Premium Fish Sauce, or patis, which contains 8 to 11 percent protein content and is considered a healthier alternative compared to ordinary fish sauce available in the market.
Another product that drew positive reactions from attendees was “Patis Camatis,” one of the company’s specialty products sampled by media practitioners and stakeholders during the event.
Meanwhile, in support of local salt-makers, the Provincial Government of Catanduanes immediately responded to the request of the salt-makers’ cooperative in Barangay Bote, Bato town.
The provincial government provided 15 pieces of plywood and 15-by-15-meter UV plastic sheets to be used for the cooperative’s salt bed facility as initial assistance for the expansion of their production.
According to the Provincial Government, the initiative forms part of a broader effort to revive the salt industry in Catanduanes and create more livelihood opportunities for coastal communities.
The Asinsado Project is among the flagship initiatives under the Azanza administration’s “5K” development agenda, particularly under the pillars of “Kabuhayan” (Livelihood) and “Kalusugan” (Health), which aim to increase residents’ income while promoting the use of safer and healthier salt-related products.
The project also aligns with Republic Act No. 8172, or the ASIN Law, and Republic Act No. 11985, or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act, both of which seek to strengthen and sustain the local salt industry in the country.
Through the project, officials hope not only to expand salt production in Catanduanes but also to provide new markets, additional income, and long-term livelihood opportunities for Catandunganons.
| via CatPIO photos | Francis Benedict | Grace Vargas | Bicol Peryodiko Integrated News |
