The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), in partnership with the National Fisheries Development Center (BFAR-NFDC), is leading a bold transformation of the country’s salt industry by turning one of the oldest kitchen staples into a modern, marketable product with health and livelihood benefits.

Through the Development of Salt Industry Project (DSIP), BFAR has introduced a premium line of value-added solar salt products developed by the Product Development Unit of BFAR-NFDC. These artisanal salts are not only fortified with essential minerals like iodine but are also infused with locally sourced flavors designed to elevate Filipino cuisine while supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in coastal and rural communities.

Among the newly launched products is Tanglasin, a lemongrass-flavored salt that adds a bright, citrusy finish to seafood, poultry, and tropical dishes. Ginsin, on the other hand, infuses the warmth of ginger – perfect for broths, rice porridge, and stir-fries. Malunggrin combines malunggay with sea salt for an earthy, nutritious twist to everyday meals. 

Saltivum delivers deep umami through roasted garlic infusion, while Salte Italia features a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for enhancing pasta, bread, and roasted dishes. Pepperin combines sea salt with freshly ground black pepper for bold seasoning, and Spisin packs a fiery punch with chili flakes for meats, marinades, and street food favorites.

The initiative aims to revive the salt industry by showcasing its versatility and value beyond its traditional use. It also seeks to address public health concerns such as iodine deficiency disorders while creating new revenue streams for Filipino salt makers. Technology demonstrations and training under the project help local producers adopt solar salt production and product enhancement techniques that meet growing consumer demand for both nutrition and novelty.

This effort comes at a time of renewed national attention to the domestic salt sector. For years, local producers faced numerous challenges, including limited support services, climate-related disruptions, urbanization, and reliance on imports.

But the tide began to turn in 2024 with the enactment of Republic Act No. 11985 or the Philippine Salt Industry Development Act. The law provides a strategic framework for the rehabilitation and long-term competitiveness of the Philippine salt industry.

“Let us draw strength from our stakeholders and from the communities we serve as we set our sights toward a resilient, competitive, and inclusive Philippine salt industry; until that day, we continue to say: Pasiglahin, Sariling Ating Asin!” BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig said.