Discovering the Hidden Gems of Dasol, Pangasinan! (Full Episode) | Biyahe ni Drew

Summary

The video showcases the rich cultural and natural heritage of Dasol, Pangasinan, highlighting its treasure of salt production, vibrant local delicacies, and unique natural resources. Viewers are taken through the traditional methods of salt-making, the importance of family in sustaining the craft, and the diverse ways salt is celebrated in the region. Alongside, it introduces breathtaking attractions like shipwrecks, caves, and pristine beaches, offering a glimpse into the area's potential for both tourism and local sustenance. With a mix of adventure and tradition, Dasol’s hidden treasures shine brightly.

Takeaways

• 😀 The town of Dasol, Pangasinan is known for its unique salt production, with salt being harvested through manual methods from the coastal areas and the soil.
• 😀 Salt from Dasol is highly regarded for its quality due to its pollution-free environment, which contributes to a higher chloride and iodide content compared to other regions.
• 😀 The salt from Dasol is not only consumed locally but also distributed nationwide across the Philippines, and even exported to Japan.
• 😀 Dasol's salt production is a family-oriented activity, with every member, from children to elders, contributing to the process, emphasizing the importance of hard work and family cooperation.
• 😀 Aside from salt, Dasol is home to a shipwreck that has become a popular tourist attraction, offering an opportunity for snorkeling and free diving experiences.
• 😀 The local delicacy known as 'patutoy' is a unique dessert made with salted caramel, ube, and sometimes filled with local flavors, showcasing how salt can also be used in sweet treats.
• 😀 The area around Dasol has beautiful beaches, including Osmenia Beach, which is also famous for its white sand and clear waters, making it a great destination for beachgoers.
• 😀 The region's fishing industry thrives, and local lobsters, known as 'kilat', are highly prized and fetch high prices in Manila, offering another valuable resource for the community.
• 😀 Dasol’s community also collects 'balbalang', a seaweed used in local dishes, which is harvested during the glow tide and adds to the region's distinct culinary offerings.
• 😀 Dasol is not only a place of natural beauty but also home to some of the heaviest pearl collections in the Philippines, with a Guinness World Record attempt for the largest collection.

Q & A

What makes Dasol, Pangasinan’s salt unique?

Dasol's salt is known for its high chloride content and its pollution-free production process, which makes it stand out in terms of quality. The salt is not only popular within Pangasinan but is also exported to other regions, including Japan.

How much revenue does Dasol generate from salt production each season?

The salt industry in Dasol generates millions of pesos every season, with earnings reportedly reaching up to 80 million pesos, thanks to the production of various types of salt such as 'dirty salt' and 'refined salt.'

What role does the sun play in the salt harvesting process in Dasol?

The sun is a vital element in salt harvesting in Dasol. It helps with the drying process, and without sufficient sunlight, the workers are unable to harvest salt, as the drying of the salt is crucial for its quality.

How is the community in Dasol involved in salt production?

In Dasol, salt production is a family-oriented activity, with every member of the family participating in the work. Even young children help with carrying salt, making it a community-driven livelihood that has been passed down through generations.

What is the significance of the shipwreck in Barangay Osmenia, Dasol?

The shipwreck in Barangay Osmenia has become a popular tourist attraction. Despite its tragic past, it has become a valuable part of the area’s heritage and is considered a unique underwater experience for visitors.

What makes the food in Dasol unique, especially the local delicacies?

Dasol's local delicacies are unique due to the use of their famous salt as a key ingredient in some dishes, like a dessert made with salt. Additionally, a special treat called 'patutoy' is made using local ingredients like ube and salted caramel.

What is the 'patutoy' and why is it significant in Dasol?

'Patutoy' is a unique local delicacy in Dasol, shaped like a long puto, and filled with either ube or salted caramel. It highlights the creativity of the locals in incorporating their famous salt into their traditional dishes.

What is the significance of the Kilat Lobster in Dasol?

The Kilat Lobster is highly prized in Dasol due to its rarity and high market value, especially in Manila, where it can fetch a price of around 4,000 pesos per kilogram. It is considered a delicacy in the region.

What kind of natural beauty and experiences can tourists enjoy in Dasol?

Tourists in Dasol can enjoy a variety of natural experiences, including snorkeling and free diving in the shipwreck area, exploring caves, and relaxing on pristine beaches. The region is also known for its unique marine life and coral reefs.

What is the historical and cultural significance of the pearl collection in Dasol?

Dasol is home to the Philippines' heaviest pearl collection, weighing a total of 31.5 kilograms. This collection is significant not only for its size but also because it is being considered by the Guinness World Records as the heaviest pearl collection in the world.