The Philippines’ salt industry faces critical modernization challenges, making research and innovation essential for global competitiveness. A recent comprehensive review revealed promising developments that could transform the sector’s future.
**Key Points**
- Technical panel recommends sustaining ASIN Center operations beyond implementation period
- Four major projects cover sustainable salterns, R&D center establishment, artisan technology, and value-added products
- Pangasinan State University commits to maintaining the center as a leading salt research hub
- Strong regional support demonstrated from DOST leadership across multiple institutions
How Did the ASIN Projects Technical Panel Review Reshape Philippine Salt Innovation?
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), partnering with Pangasinan State University, orchestrated a pivotal Technical Panel Review and Closing Meeting for four transformative projects under the Accelerating Salt Research and Innovation (ASIN) Center. This comprehensive evaluation, funded through DOST’s NICER Program, examined program completeness and objective attainment across multiple research initiatives.
Consequently, the three-day assessment held at PSU Golden Lion Hotel from September 30 to October 2, 2025, focused on implementation activities, deliverable accomplishments, and target achievements for each specialized project.
What Projects Were Evaluated During This Technical Review?
The evaluation encompassed four distinct research initiatives, each addressing critical aspects of salt industry advancement:
- Sustainable Saltern Development – Dr. Nathaniel R. Alibuyog from Mariano Marcos State University led efforts in climate-resilient saltern technology, standardization, and pilot establishment
- Salt R&D Center Establishment – Engr. Rex B. Basuel of Pangasinan State University, serving dual roles as project leader and ASIN Program Leader, focused on technology and competence development
- Artisan Salt Innovation – Dr. Janice M. Baysa from President Ramon Magsaysay State University spearheaded technology preservation and innovation initiatives
- Value-Added Products – Dr. Andie John D. Tadeo of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University concentrated on sea salt enhancement and byproduct utilization
Who Comprised the Technical Evaluation Panel?
Expert Leadership and Institutional Representation
Mr. Oliver C. Evangelista of DOST–ITDI chaired the Technical Panel, alongside distinguished colleagues including Engr. Isidro Millo from DOST–MIRDC, Mr. Justin Godfred Peralta representing UP Diliman, and Ms. Trinidad Arcangel from the DOST–Food and Nutrition Research Institute. Additionally, ASIN Center Managers Mr. Richard Paolo M. Aba, Ms. Fatima Jhoan S. Ibarreta, and Ms. Stephanie Ann Blanco-David from DOST–PCIEERD participated in the comprehensive evaluation.
What Were the Panel’s Key Recommendations?
Sustained Operations Beyond Implementation Period
The Technical Panel delivered a resounding endorsement, recommending sustained ASIN Program operations and center functionality beyond the original implementation timeline. This recommendation recognizes the program’s fundamental importance in advancing Philippine salt industry capabilities through research, innovation, and technology transfer initiatives.
The commitment to continuity signals a transformative shift in salt industry development strategy.
University Leadership Commitment
Dr. Elbert M. Galas, University President of Pangasinan State University, alongside Dr. Razeale G. Resultay, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation, provided categorical assurance of continued institutional support. Their commitment positions the ASIN Center as the country’s premier salt research and innovation hub.
“With the help of everyone, we will make the ASIN Center fully operational and functional to better serve the community,” President Galas declared, emphasizing collaborative dedication to program success.
How Did Regional Leadership Support the Initiative?
Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, Regional Director of DOST Region I, attended the evaluation and expressed comprehensive support for the ASIN Center Program. Her participation underscored the center’s vital role in revitalizing the salt industry across Region I and nationwide, serving as a catalyst for innovation, modernization, and capacity building initiatives.
Furthermore, DOST Pangasinan Provincial Director Engr. Arnold Santos participated in the evaluation, demonstrating robust regional alignment with program objectives and strategic priorities.
Bottom Line
The Technical Panel Review represents a watershed moment for Philippine salt industry modernization, with unanimous recommendations for program sustainability reflecting tangible progress across four critical research domains. The convergence of institutional commitment, expert validation, and regional support creates unprecedented momentum for industry transformation.
Moving forward, the ASIN Center will intensify research and development activities, expand national and international partnerships, and strengthen extension efforts to empower local salt producers. This comprehensive approach ensures Philippine-produced salt achieves global standards in quality, safety, and competitiveness while preserving traditional artisan methods.
