USTP Panaon showcases salt production research at provincial industry consultation
By Marjho Mae S. Cardoza, Faculty, USTP Panaon
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Panaon, Misamis Occidental (USTP Panaon) presented key research findings during the Provincial Consultation on the Development of the Salt Industry Project on March 18, 2026, held at the Asenso Misamis Occidental Sports and Cultural Center (AMOSACC) in Capitol, Oroquieta City. The event gathered stakeholders from various municipalities to discuss strategies, resources, and partnerships aimed at scaling up local salt production.
The consultation was organized by the Provincial Fisheries Office (PFO) in collaboration with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 10, highlighting the government’s commitment to transforming the salt industry into a significant economic driver in the province.
BFAR Region 10 focal person Mary Joy A. Tac-an provided an overview of the project, outlining the agency’s vision to modernize salt production, achieve self-sufficiency, and empower local producers through technical support and improved technologies. Dr. Leny Q. Anasco, Acting Campus Director of USTP Panaon and Project Leader for the Techno Demonstration Farm for Sea Salt Production in Concrete Beds Through Solar Method, showcased the results of the university’s ongoing research.
She presented yield data demonstrating the viability of the solar method using concrete beds, along with the cooking process implemented at the USTP Panaon campus. Dr. Anasco also discussed challenges encountered, including weather-related disruptions, and shared technical insights for producing high-quality salt—bridging academic research and practical application.
The discussion expanded with inputs from key national agencies. A representative from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) highlighted the agency’s annual demand for salt as a fertilizer to improve coconut productivity. Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO) presented an inventory of potential salt production sites across the province, providing direction for future expansion.
The consultation marked a significant step toward strengthening the salt industry in Misamis Occidental, positioning the province to meet regional demand and support national efforts toward a more resilient and sustainable salt sector.
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