DA–BSWM, DOrSU Team Up for Soil Testing Training and Laboratory Compliance
Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA – BSWM) and Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU), a member of the Philippines National Soil and Laboratory Network (PhilNASOLAN), further strengthened their partnership through a series of activities aimed at enhancing soil fertility management and ensuring compliance with laboratory quality standards.
On February 12, 2025, the University Research Complex – Institute for Soil and Water (UResCom – iSaW), with support from the Department of Agriculture – Regional Soils Laboratory (DA-RSL) XI, successfully conducted hands-on training on soil testing using Soil Test Kit (STK). Held at the UResCom in Marfori, Don Enrique Lopez, City of Mati, Davao Oriental, the event brought together faculty members and students from DOrSU’s main and extension campuses, representatives from Local Government Units (LGUs), personnel from the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRO) – Davao Oriental, and farm owners and members of agricultural cooperatives.
The training provided participants with essential soil testing knowledge and skills, serving as a crucial step in conducting soil fertility mapping for high-value crops in Davao Oriental, which further aims to generate data that will support precision agriculture. The sessions were led by experts from BSWM’s Laboratory Services Division (LSD), including Ms. Keyfej Ramos, a registered chemist, and Mr. Anito Tisado Jr., a licensed agriculturist.
Meanwhile, a team from DA-BSWM conducted an on-site evaluation of the Institute for Soil and Water (iSAW) laboratory to inspect its compliance with Presidential Decree 1435, which mandates strict quality standards for soil and water testing laboratories. Led by Ms. Sheila Mae Bautista and Engr. Alexander Areta, the inspection aimed to ensure the facility meets the necessary technical and operational requirements.
DOrSU President Dr. Roy G. Ponce has made a firm commitment to fully implement the recommendations provided by the DA-BSWM technical team. This commitment, shared by UResCom Supervisor Dr. Wilanfranco C. Tayone and iSaW Associate Supervisor Dr. Janeth C. Tayone, signifies a proactive approach to ensuring the iSAW laboratory operates at the highest possible standards.
Anchored in the university’s regenerative futures vision, these ongoing initiatives stand as a testament to DOrSU’s commitment to advancing regenerative agricultural practices and empowering communities through scientific innovation. By equipping local stakeholders with essential knowledge and skills and upholding the highest standards in soil and water analysis, DOrSU actively fosters regenerative development, ensuring ecological balance, economic prosperity, and social well-being for the communities of Davao Oriental.
