The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) announced plans to further expand local salt production after the Philippines' output reached nearly 200,000 metric tons in the first half of 2026.This marks a significant milestone in the government's efforts to reduce reliance on imported salt.

From January to June 2026, the country's salt industry showed steady recovery, with total production of artisanal, solar, and cooking salt reaching 199,293 MT.The BFAR attributes this growth to the Development of Salt Industry Project (DSIP), which aims to strengthen the local sector.The agency is committed to expanding DSIP to transform coastal communities into economic hubs.

A notable success story comes from Barangay Tawagan Sur in Pagadian City, where a women-led group transitioned from seaweed farming to salt production using advanced techniques and infrastructure support from BFAR.The group now operates 12 solar beds, four greenhouse dryers, and 19 elevated solar dryers, producing nearly seven MT of high-quality salt annually.

Future plans include providing iodizing machines and technical assistance from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to enhance innovation in salt production.This initiative not only boosts local economic growth but also ensures sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities.