TARLAC City, Tarlac (March 14, 2025) — Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. led the turnover of outputs such as Soil Health and Soil Fertility Maps, Soil Health Monitoring Reports and Recommendations, and Soil Health Cards from the seven-week pilot deployment of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Soils and Water Management’s (DA-BSWM) Mobile Soil Laboratory (MSL) in Tarlac province.
The BSWM, using the MSL, covered 17 towns and one city in the province. The MSL deployment started last January 20, 2025, to March 7, 2025, providing services such as soil survey, laboratory analysis, fertilizer recommendations, and farmer training, among others to help enhance soil health, increase farm productivity, foster sustainable farming, and bolster farmers’ incomes in this agriculturally important province.
Designed to meet the growing need for soil testing, the MSL offers advanced analysis for up to 44 parameters, including soil chemical, physical, microbiological, and water chemical tests. The mobile laboratory is a key component of the National Soil Health Program, which provides accessible, reliable, and precise soil testing services to remote agricultural area.
During the pilot deployment, the MSL analyzed 543 soil samples and provided 346 fertilizer recommendations for 25 high-value crops. Additionally, 584 participants, including farmers and local stakeholders, were trained on soil analysis and sustainable fertilizer management.
“We are committed to providing high-quality soil analysis and creating a lasting positive impact on soil health,” said Secretary Tiu Laurel. “The MSL brings essential soil science directly to the community, helping farmers make informed decisions and promoting sustainable agricultural practices,” he added.
The MSL initiative also strengthens local capacity by distributing 103 soil test kits across 18 municipalities. Furthermore, 196 soil health monitoring samples were collected, contributing to updating Tarlac’s 5 fertility maps.
The DA-BSWM plans to deploy 16 MSL units nationwide, aiming to improve crop productivity, increase profitability, and enhance soil health. Through improved soil management practices, this initiative seeks to ensure food security and build agricultural resilience for the future.
