Bugasong: Salt production in the municipality of Bugasong has become a year-round endeavor, thanks to the shared service facility (SSF) provided by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

According to Philippines News Agency, the introduction of the SSF has allowed local producers to overcome the challenges posed by traditional methods, which relied on sun-drying seawater and were thus ineffective during rainy periods. Babylonia Pon-An, president of the Barangay Camangahan Fisherfolk Association in Bugasong, expressed gratitude for the new equipment, noting its impact on production capabilities.

The association received the SSF in 2023, with the local government unit of Bugasong acting as the cooperator and providing a production center. The facility includes a horizontal continuous band sealer, working table, settling and evaporating tanks, nylon screen, stainless cooking vat, furnace, and a water pump.

With these resources, the association now produces 900 kilos of salt monthly, including first-class, iodized salt sold at the public market and trade fairs. Thirteen members of the association are actively involved in daily salt production, receiving PHP300 for their labor, while the 130-member organization benefits from a patronage share at the end of the year.

In addition to the equipment, DTI has also provided training on packaging to ensure the salt products are market-ready and appealing to consumers.