CONSTRAINTS AND CHALLENGES OF SALT FARMING IN OCCIDENTAL MINDORO, PHILIPPINES

This study drew the profile of salt farm owners and farmers in Occidental Mindoro, Philippines; their production characteristics terms size, material used for beds intended use produced post-harvest practices. It also identified constraints challenges faced by farmers. Key Informant Interview using an interview guide was to gather data from 52 owners/farmers. Results indicate that are males, between 41-55 years old married belong large households. The area is 10 hectares or less, clay (from Vigan) stones line crystallizers, include agricultural grade coconut fertilization, yellow quality raw bagoong dried fish production, cleaning purposes, green human consumption, iodized consumption (table salt), washed refined salt) food industries (chips, biscuits). Findings revealed majority did not own a warehouse store sacks package salt. recommended Mindoro Salt Industry Road Map be translated into reality providing government support industry form research development projects programs on post-harvest, logistics marketing strategies, provision loan facility augment capitalization encourage industry-academe agencies collaboration inclusive revitalization.