Pangasinan State University (PSU) officially inaugurated the Accelerating Salt Research and Innovation (ASIN) Center at its Binmaley Campus today, February 17, 2026.
Bringing together government officials, researchers and industry partners from across the region, the event charted a unified course towards the revitalization of the Philippines’ salt industry.
Emphasizing the convergence of history and progress, 𝗣𝗦𝗨 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗿. 𝗘𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗠. 𝗚𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘀 accentuates on the dual nature of the new facility. “Today we gather at the confluence of heritage and scientific aspiration as we inaugurate a Center that embodies both scientific rigor and cultural memory,” President Galas stated.
He added that this milestone demonstrates the possibilities that arise “when a national research agenda intersects with the enduring strength of regional and institutional heritage.”
In 2022, through the leadership of PSU’s 6th University President now Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Administrator and Chief Executive Officer, the partnership and collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Pangasinan State University (PSU) started.
From then on, the work continued according to the time line. In 2023, the Regional Development Council for Region 1 approved the establishment of ASIN CENTER, while the DOST granted 93 million (MOOE and Equipment and Machines Capital Outlay) through its NICER or Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D program.
On the same year, President Galas as the newly installed President of PSU attended Senate Public Hearing on salt industry development leading to 2024 construction of the ASIN Center building. Following these rigorous partnerships and capacity building, the facility was completed in 2025, paving the way for this year’s inauguration.
To this end, PSU is leading this historical undertaking to align scientific discovery with technological advancement and cultural preservation. As a Commission on Higher Education-recognized Center of Excellence for its BS Fisheries program, the university successfully convened partners across coastal provinces. The ultimate goal, according to Dr. Galas, is to transform traditional knowledge into refined science, and science into national sufficiency, ensuring every salt-producing community has access to high-quality production methods and environmental adaptability.
Underscoring the event’s significance, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. served as the keynote speaker, addressing stakeholders on the harmonization of science for national development.
“This ASIN Center here in Pangasinan should create employment opportunities and thereby improve the lives of our people.” He was joined by prominent DOST officials, including Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Leah J. Buendia, Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services Usec. Maridon O. Sahagun, DOST-PCIEERD Deputy Executive Director Engr. Ninaliza H. Escorial, DOST-ITDI Director Dr. Annabelle V. Briones, and Regional Director Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog.
Also physically present was Dr. Buted who was instrumental in the fruition of the ASIN Center.
Furthermore, legislative and local government support was secured through the backing of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III (who was represented by Gilbert Estrella); Congresswoman Maria Rachel J. Arenas, 2nd District of Pangasinan Representative Hon. Mark O. Cojuangco, and Congressman Arthur F. Celeste of the First District. Also instrumental in today’s historical event are key Pangasinan local executives, including Governor Hon. Ramon V. Guico III, Vice Governor Hon. Mark Ronald DG Lambino, and Binmaley Mayor Hon. Pete Merrera III
In terms of scope, the 2026 ASIN Center Project supports three priority areas: Climate-Resilient Salterns and Production Standardization, a Research and Development Hub for Technology and Competence, and Artisan Salt Technology Innovation and Preservation.
To broaden its impact, the Center has forged academic partnerships with Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), and President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU). These institutions were represented by their respective presidents: Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr. (MMSU), Dr. Jaime I. Manuel Jr. (DMMMSU), and Dr. Roy N. Villalobos (PRMSU). Joining them as academic and R&D partners were University of Northern Philippines President Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna, Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College President Dr. Mario P. Obrero, and Urdaneta City University Acting President Atty. Amihan April C. Mella-Alcazar.
Notably, through PSUs Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation (REI) led by Dr. Razeale G. Resultay and the ASIN program leader, Engr. Rex Basuel, the said national center came to fruition.
The inauguration also highlighted the strong inter-agency collaboration essential for the industry’s growth. Key members of the ASIN Center Steering Committee and regional partners in attendance included DTI Region I Director Merlie D. Membrere, DTI Pangasinan Director PD. Natalia B. Dalaten, FDA North Luzon Cluster Director Atty. Gomel C. Gabuna, National Nutrition Council Region 1 OIC Mr. Kendall Pilgrim A. Gatan, BFAR Region I Regional Director Atty. Girly G. Dela Peña, DENR Region I Executive Director Atty. Ronnel C. Sopsop, NEDA Region I Regional Director Dr. Stephanie F. Christiansen, CHED Region I Regional Director Dr. Cherrie Melanie A. Diego, and TESDA Region I Regional Director Mr. Ramon Evan T. Ruiz.
Additionally, international strategic partnerships were established with institutions from Japan, India, and Indonesia, alongside local government units in Iloilo, Guimaras, and various Pangasinan municipalities.
Concluding the ceremony, Dr. Galas reaffirmed the Center’s commitment to inclusive growth. “We affirm that tradition deserves the illumination of science, that regional industries merit global competitiveness, and that progress is strongest when it is inclusive and sustainable,” he said.
With this inauguration, the ASIN Center now stands ready to attract national investment and improve salt sufficiency for all Filipinos.
