The Department of Agriculture (DA) is ramping up efforts to improve farm productivity and deploys mobile soil testing laboratories (MSL) across the country for the purpose.
DA officer-in-charge and undersecretary for operations Roger Navarro urged farmers to take full advantage of the MSL’s services to improve crop yields and make informed decisions on the right seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs needed to optimize their land.
Each mobile lab, valued at around ₱42 million, can conduct advanced analysis of up to 44 parameters—covering soil chemical, physical, microbiological, and water chemical properties. The MSL is a key component of the National Soil Health Program, which aims to make soil testing accessible, reliable, and precise, particularly in remote agricultural areas.
“The DA is offering these services free of charge to farmers growing rice, corn, high-value crops, vegetables, and root crops,” Navarro said. “This is a valuable tool to help boost yields while minimizing the impact on soil health.”
All 17 Regional Field Offices have been equipped with an MSL, supporting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to modernize Philippine agriculture and bring science-based services directly to farmers.
The pilot deployment of the MSL in Tarlac earlier this year demonstrated promising results. It analyzed 543 soil samples and produced 346 fertilizer recommendations covering 25 high-value crops. A total of 584 farmers and local stakeholders were trained in soil testing and sustainable fertilizer management.
In only seven weeks, the deployment also generated soil health and soil fertility maps, soil health monitoring reports, and personalized soil health cards.
Soil health isn’t just about sustainability—it’s a sound financial strategy. With regular soil testing, farmers can cut input costs, improve yields and crop quality, reduce risks from drought or nutrient deficiencies, and ensure long-term soil productivity.
By investing in soil health, the DA empowers farmers to make smarter decisions—leading to yield increment translating to greater profitability, improved resilience, and a stronger foundation for Philippine agriculture.
