Salt farmers in Occidental Mindoro were the first to participate in a new registration process launched by the Philippine government this week, as authorities seek to revive the country’s struggling salt industry.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) selected Magsaysay in Occidental Mindoro to pilot the scheme, which aims to create a comprehensive database of producers and streamline regulatory support.

“This registration process is the foundation for identifying future project beneficiaries,” said Jerome Mayorga from BFAR during the recent launch event at Mangyan Hall.

The Philippines, despite being surrounded by seawater, imports approximately 90% of its salt requirements.

Domestic production has plummeted over recent decades, with traditional salt-making provinces like Mindoro struggling to compete with cheaper imports.

Occidental Mindoro was once among the country’s leading salt producers, with its mineral-rich coastal waters providing ideal conditions for salt farming.

However, unpredictable weather patterns linked to climate change and limited access to modern production techniques have hampered the industry’s growth.

During an open forum at the event, salt farmers raised concerns about conflicting regulatory requirements.

Under Republic Act 11985 (the Salt Industry Development Act), cooperatives need at least 50 members to qualify for government support, while the Cooperative Development Authority requires only 15 members.

“These discrepancies create barriers for smaller producers looking to organize into cooperatives,” explained Filcollin Omandac from the Salt Management Office.

The government has pledged support for modernizing salt production methods across the archipelago.

Hazel Gene Peremne from BFAR’s Central Office cited new opportunities including potential technological innovations and market development.

“Traditional salt farming methods remain predominant in Mindoro, but with proper support, producers can adopt more efficient and climate-resilient techniques,” Peremne said.

The Philippines passed the Salt Industry Development Act in 2022 to address the country’s growing dependence on imports.

The law aims to revitalize domestic production through financial assistance, training programs and infrastructure development.

BFAR officials confirmed that the registration scheme will be gradually expanded to other salt-producing provinces after the Mindoro pilot is completed.

Photos: courtesy of BFAR Mimaropa