The National Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and the Sagay local government signed an agreement for a P10-million climate-resilient salt production project in Brgy. Molocaboc in the city.
The two-year project, titled “Advancing Climate-Resilient Salt Production through Desalination By-Product and Process Mechanization”, aims to modernize salt production through research, technology, and mechanized processes.
It seeks to improve production efficiency, enhance salt quality, and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for coastal communities, the city said July 6.
Of the P10-million allocation, P8.5 million will fund the first year of implementation while P1.5 million will be allocated for the second year.
NFRDI will finance the supplies, equipment, materials, and facilities needed for the desalination and salt production operations, while BFAR will provide technical assistance in the construction and operation of the facilities.
The Sagay LGU, on the other hand, will provide the project site and necessary legal documents for the use of the government-owned property.
The memorandum of agreement was signed July 1 by NFRDI executive director Maria Theresa Mutia, BFAR national director Elizar Salilig, and Sagay Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva.
Through the City Agriculture Office, the local government will also oversee implementation, monitor the fisherfolk beneficiaries, submit progress reports, supervise construction, and provide electricity and other utilities.
Each partner-agency will designate a focal person to coordinate and monitor the project throughout its implementation.
Cueva said the partnership will help turn innovation into a sustainable source of income for island residents.
“This project is not only about producing salt. It is about creating livelihoods, using technology to respond to climate challenges, and giving our coastal communities more opportunities to improve their income,” he added. ||
