By Ian Paul R. Villanueva, Contributor

The research titled “Documenting Salt-Making Practices in the Philippines: Socioeconomic Impact and Policy Implications for the Salt Industry”, under the MMSU Accelerating Salt Research and Innovation (ASIN) Project 1, was awarded Best Research Paper in Cluster 2 (Socioeconomic Impacts and Value-Added Applications) during the 2nd Philippine Salt Congress, held on December 12–13, 2024, at the Golden Lion Hotel, Pangasinan State University (PSU). The paper’s presenter, Mr. Lord Ian Galano, was also recognized as Best Presenter in the same category, showcasing his exceptional ability to deliver the study's findings and key insights.

The award-winning research documents traditional and modern salt-making practices in the major salt-producing provinces of the Philippines. It is part of MMSU’s ongoing ASIN Project 1, titled “Development of Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Salterns: Best Practices, Standardization, Site Mapping, and Pilot Establishment of Saltern Technology.” This project aims to advance the salt industry by promoting sustainable and climate-resilient practices.

In addition to the award-winning study, MMSU presented two other research papers during the event. One was titled “Comparative Analysis of Flooring Types in Saltern Farm: Assessing Cost, Efficiency, and Sustainability in the Philippines,” which analyzed various flooring materials to determine their cost-effectiveness and contribution to sustainability. The second paper, “Mapping Potential Saltern Sites for Sustainable and Innovative Salt Production,” focused on identifying suitable locations for establishing salterns to enhance salt production efficiency.

These research works were authored by a multidisciplinary team from MMSU, including Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog, Dr. Rodel Utrera, Dr. Sherlyn Nicolas, Dr. Cristina Valentin, Dr. Floramante Pastor, Mr. Joemel Agreda, Engr. Julius Jonar Butay, Ms. Lea Agbigay, Mr. Constante Julian, Ms. Josefa   Pugat, Ms. Ma. Concepcion Birginias, Mr. Lord Ian R. Galano, Ms. Marinique  Guerrero, Engr. Nelson Junior Rodillas, Engr. Nadine Sharinette Bravo, Mr. Augustin Quidilla, Ms. Maricone Cabansag, Engr. Selwyne Christian Ponce, Mr. Ian Paul Villanueva, Engr. Rex Basuel, Dr. Andie John Tadeo, and Dr. Janice Baysa.

The 2nd Philippine Salt Congress, guided by the theme “SALT: Sustainable Actions in People’s Lives Through Technology in the Salt Industry,” brought together research institutions, policymakers, and government agencies to discuss opportunities and challenges in the Philippine salt industry. Now on its second iteration, the Congress served as a platform for collaboration and innovation in addressing pressing concerns in salt production.

The MMSU ASIN Project 1, led by Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation Nathaniel Alibuyog, is one of four active research initiatives under the ASIN Center at PSU. The research outcomes have the potential to empower local salt producers, enhance the region's economic stability, and position Ilocos Norte as a model for sustainable and climate-resilient salt production. Through these efforts, MMSU continues to drive the growth of the salt industry and contribute to national economic development.