The Pangasinan State University continues to contribute to the country’s endeavor to becoming a salt-sufficient nation as it progresses in the establishment of a Sea Salt Research and Development (R&D) Center in Pangasinan.

PSU, led by University President Dr. Elbert M. Galas, welcomed officials of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) of Region 1 and Pangasinan Science and Technology Office with the Ilocos Consortium for Industry Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (ICIEERD) on February 7 who arrived at the university’s Golden Lion Hotel to revisit the proposal pursuing the establishment of the Sea Salt Center.

The aim of the visit is to enumerate the useful inputs in finalizing the concept of the R&D Center such as the names of collaborating institutions, capsule presentation of project and documents for the location of the center.

The PSU Research Team believes that the Center will act as the key in advancing research and development activities on salt production processes, technologies and products in order to expand salt production in the country and revitalize the salt-making industry.

“We will abide with the procedures mandated by the DOST for this project to successfully materialize. This is not for the benefit of the University alone but most specifically for the betterment of the community, salt industry and the nation,” Dr. Galas said.

The OIC Vice-President for REIGn Dr. Razeale Resultay, also assured the fulfillment of requirements needed for the proposal to push through the establishment of the Sea Salt R&D Center.

“As one of the program heads of the project, I can assure you that all necessary documents needed for compliance are taken care of and will make them available for the success of this national level project. Makakaasa kayo na our team will work hand-in-hand considering all the recommendations and suggestions discussed today for the following visit and for the smooth flow of its processes,” Dr. Resultay added.

The DOST Team was led by Ms. Adelisa C. Florendo, officer-in-charge for Field Operations; Engr. Arnold C. Santos, DOST Provincial Director for Pangasinan; Ms. Annalie L. Rosales, unit head of the Research & Development and International Linkages Unit and Director of ICIEERD; Ms. Sharmaine P. Santos, Ms. Bernalyn P. Martinez and Ms. Nicky M. Salazar.

Other PSU officials who participated in the presentation of the abstract of the project were School of Advanced Studies Executive Director Dr. Paulo Cenas; Research Director Dr. Randy Joy Ventayen; and Innovation and Support Director Engr. Jeff Pereyras. They were joined by heads of the different units in the REIGN Division namely: Engr. Quincy Jones Bundal, Dr. Wilma De Vera, Dr. Sotero Aban, Dr. Irene De Vera and Mr. Rex Basuel.

Incidentally, PSU was invited to a public hearing at the Senate of the Philippines last month for playing a pivotal role as an academic institution that gives priority to the salt revitalization program.

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