BALLESTEROS, Cagayan – The Department of Agriculture (DA)-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has launched the development of salt industry project, also known as the "Oplan Asin: Pasiglahin, Sariling Ating Asin” in 2022 at Ballesteros, Cagayan on July 3-4, 2023. The project is aimed at bridging the gaps in the industry and enhancing salt production. With the help of the Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) as the learning service provider, the fisheries bureau through its training arm conducted the first skills training on solar sea salt making, using the high-density polyethylene platform. Most of the participants were salt producers in the municipality and members of the fisherfolk association of Barangay Cabaritan West and barangay officials. Technical expert Dr. Andie John D. Tadeo, Director of DMMMSU North La Union Campus, Fisheries Research and Training Institute was the resource speaker. Tadeo shared his expertise and research work on sea salt making, not only in La Union but also nationwide. He vowed to share various technologies in sea salt production in order to address the domestic salt shortage and reduce the country's reliance on imports. He noted that in 2021, data showed that 93 percent of the country's salt supply was imported, leaving only seven percent sourced from local producers, manufacturers, and salt refiners. He cited the environmentally friendly, economical, and practical nature of their solar sea salt technology. A study indicates that a return on investment of 131.50 percent within five months is achievable in salt production, showcasing the immense livelihood potential for women in fisheries across different coastal municipalities in the country. The revitalization of solar sea salt making, coupled with the utilization of the high-density polyethylene platform, marks a significant stride towards rejuvenating the salt industry in the country. By helping local salt producers in Cagayan with enhanced skills and knowledge, this initiative will not only contribute to increased productivity but also reduce dependence on imported salt.