ILOILO — The salt industry in Guimaras received a significant boost as the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office VI (DA-BFAR 6) turned over new post-harvest facilities to local producers. The turnover of a spin dryer and four storage facilities took place on August 24, 2026, in the municipalities of San Lorenzo and Sibunag.
Advancing Salt Processing Efficiency
The intervention is part of BFAR 6's Development of Salt Industry Project (DSIP). It aims to significantly improve local salt processing efficiency and provide proper storage facilities for the province's producers. The new equipment is expected to reduce product loss and elevate the overall quality of Guimaras salt.
BFAR 6 Regional Director Remia A. Aparri led the turnover ceremony. She commended the local producers for making Guimaras the top salt-producing province in Western Visayas. Director Aparri encouraged them to optimize production using the new equipment while maintaining the facilities responsibly.
A Livelihood That Builds Futures
Roberto Gajo, a local salt producer from Sibunag, shared a heartfelt testimony about the impact of the Bureau's continuous support. He expressed deep gratitude for the machinery provided, including water pumps, sacks, plastic, and now the spin dryer and storage house. He emphasized how these resources have transformed the lives of his family.
Gajo shared that despite financial hardships, he was able to send his children to school through salt-making. He proudly mentioned that his children have become a teacher and two engineers, with two more studying commerce. His story illustrates how sustainable livelihoods in the fisheries sector directly fund higher education and strengthen the regional workforce.
Regional Economic Synergy
The boost in Guimaras' salt production has direct positive implications for Iloilo and the broader Ilonggo community. Guimaras is Western Visayas' top salt-producing province, providing a reliable local supply for food manufacturers and processors. Iloilo's food sector, including producers of preserved fish like ginamos and tuyo, benefits from access to high-grade local salt.
The closely intertwined economies of Guimaras and Iloilo mean that boosted salt yields increase economic activity across the Iloilo Strait. Cargo volumes moving through Iloilo's trade hubs and ports, such as Parola Wharf and Lapuz, are expected to rise. This drives growth for local logistics providers, wholesalers, and markets across Panay Island.
A Shared Duty for Coastal Conservation
Director Aparri also reminded the beneficiaries of their shared duty toward coastal conservation. She emphasized that being in the fisheries sector comes with the responsibility to protect the seas and marine life. This reminder underscores the connection between industry advancement and environmental stewardship.
The health of the Iloilo Strait and surrounding waters is vital for both provinces. Preserving these marine resources safeguards the fishery resources shared by Guimaras and Iloilo. The initiative aligns with the goal of sustainable development and responsible resource management.
