LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN—The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) reaffirmed its commitment to revitalizing the salt and coconut industries through its participation in the 2nd Philippine Salt Congress held on December 12-13, 2024, at the Pangasinan State University (PSU). Themed “SALT: Sustainable Actions in People’s Lives through Technology in the Salt Industry,” the two-day event gathered key stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers to address challenges and explore innovations in salt production.

Organized by the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and PSU, the two-day congress aimed to address the decline in local salt production and map out sustainable solutions. The event featured plenary sessions, technical discussions, and research presentations tackling critical topics, including the DA-BFAR’s OPLAN ASIN program, the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act, and innovative technologies under the SALT and OneASIN Programs of DOST.

PCA Administrator and CEO Dr. Dexter R. Buted, a staunch advocate for the salt industry, the Authority's participation underscored its integral role in synergizing salt production with coconut industry development.

Dr. Buted, who spearheaded the first-ever Salt Congress during his tenure as PSU president, delivered a keynote address that highlighted the Coconut Fertilization Project (CFP) as a game-changer for both industries and their mutual potential to propel economic growth.

The PCA chief detailed how PCA’s CFP strategically utilizes Agricultural Grade Salt Fertilizer (AGSF) to rejuvenate low-bearing coconut palms and promote sustainable farming practices. By leveraging locally produced salt, the PCA not only reduces dependence on imports but also directly supports Filipino salt farmers.

“The synergy between the salt and coconut industries is a testament to how government initiatives can uplift farmers, reduce import dependence, and foster sustainability,” Dr. Buted remarked.

The PCA’s initiatives under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) were also showcased. These programs aim to modernize the coconut industry, increase farmer productivity and income, and address poverty through sustainable practices. Dr. Buted underscored how the “BAYANIyugan” campaign and massive planting of coconut seedlings, projected to yield billions of additional nuts annually by 2034, will generate increased demand for salt, fostering a robust market for local producers.

The Authority’s participation in the Congress streamlines the significant strides made under Republic Act No. 11985, or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act, which mandates the PCA to prioritize locally sourced salt for coconut fertilization. This mandate bridges the two industries, fostering job creation, enhancing farmers’ incomes, and supporting sustainable practices.

In line with this, PCA has forged partnerships with local governments and salt producers, including Dasol and DOST Region I’s OneASIN Program, to secure a steady AGSF supply. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) formalized these collaborations, ensuring reliable procurement channels for the Coconut Fertilization Project while empowering local salt farmers.

The PCA’s active involvement in the 2nd Philippine Salt Congress underscores its commitment to uplift Filipino farmers and propel the Philippines toward agricultural excellence. The Authority continues to spearhead initiatives that ensure a more sustainable future for the nation’s agricultural landscape.