Regional Bantay ASIN Task Force (RBATF) Region 02 halted and sent back to origin a total of 39, 300kgs of uniodized salt in the first semester through its strengthened Bantay Asin Checkpoint situated in Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya.

According to Mr. Orlando Pichay, Head of Sta. Fe Bantay Asin Checkpoint, a total of 428, 805kgs passed through the Bantay Asin Checkpoint. However, a total of 39, 300kgs were tested as uniodized salt. This salt came from two traders only; one in May (1,800kgs) and June (37, 500kgs). Noticeably, the largest shipment apprehented, was from a certain Danica Uy, a grain trader from Batangas.

Moreover, Mr. Pichay narrated that this trader is new in their list and the apprehension is only due to an accident that happened which promted them to check the shipment who at first they thought was only a corn and rice commodity. "We were shocked when we found out that they also have salt commodity in their shipment because it was not declared in their LTO," he added.

After the incident, Mr. Pichay directly informed PNP Santa Fe which conducted a proper police blotter to record the apprehension and sent the commodity back to its origin.

Monitoring of the Salt Iodization Program is one of the major activity of National Nutrition Council Region O2 to eliminate iodine deficiency disorders in the region.

During the second quarter rbatf meeting, Ms. Maria Gisela Lonzaga, Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator, emphasized that NNC R02 through the RBATF R02 will continue to assure the people of Cagayan Valley that only adequately iodized salt will enter the region. Further, she encourages people to patronize only iodized salt due to its beneficial effects. She applauded the support of LGUs and Regional Line Agencies for the success of the organization.

Lastly, RBATF R02 will continue its strict implementation of RA 8172 or ASIN Law and will strive to find solutions and alternatives in order to eliminate the entry of inadequately iodized salt in the region.