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A major national effort to safeguard the Philippines’ agricultural future is now underway in Agusan del Sur. A landmark three-day Stakeholders Forum on Soil Testing and Information Systems opened yesterday, bringing together scientists, policymakers, and local officials to standardize how the nation cares for its most vital resource: its soil.
Governor Hon. Santiago B. Cane, Jr. welcomed delegates to the Datu Lipas Makapandong Covered Court, framing the summit as critical for local and national food security. In his inspirational address, 2nd District Representative Hon. Adolph Edward G. Plaza emphasized the direct link between soil health, farmer prosperity, and sustainable development.
Running from December 3-5 under the theme “Understanding the Landscape of Soil Testing and Information Systems,” the forum features in-depth presentations and workshops. The goal is to create unified national protocols for soil analysis and a modern, accessible information system that can provide accurate data directly to farmers.
Key participants include a delegation from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), who are actively contributing insights from their ongoing ACIAR-DOST funded Soil Health Program. The USM team consists of Ms. Janice M. Bangoy, Ms. Rhenalie Bello, Ms. Mary Rodelyn Cariaga, Ms. Roviline Pal-iwen, and Mr. Rezin Cabantug.
The forum is set to culminate on World Soil Day, December 5, with a ceremonial commitment wall signing and cake-cutting, symbolizing a collective national pledge to prioritize soil conservation. The outcomes of this summit are expected to shape national agricultural policy and extension services for years to come.
Text: Janice Bangoy | Science Research Specialist
