DOrSU Joins National Hands-On Training on Soil Chemistry to Boost Agricultural Productivity
Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) participated in a three-week hands-on training on Soil, Water, Fertilizer, and Plant Tissue Testing Methods organized by the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM). The training, led by BSWM Director Gina P. Nilo, PhD, from the Department of Agriculture (DA), aims to enhance the capacity of soil laboratories nationwide and standardize testing methods, in accordance with Presidential Decree (PD) 1435.
The first week of the training took place from October 7 to 11, 2024, at the Laboratory Services Division (LSD) of the BSWM Central Office in Quezon City. The sessions were led by Ms. Maribel R. Jalalon, Chief of the LSD, and Ms. Florfina P. Sanchez, Head of the Soil Chemistry Section. DOrSU was represented by Dr. Janeth C. Tayone and Mr. Geralph Sam P. Villarubia from the Institute for Soil and Water – University Research Complex (i-SaW-UResCom) and the Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Alongside chemists, chemical technicians, and agriculturists from various Regional Soils Laboratories (RSL), the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), and Provincial Agricultural Offices (PAGRO) across the country, DOrSU’s team actively participated in soil chemistry analysis. This intensive training provided participants with standard operating procedures for soil chemistry testing, a key component for enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting environmental conservation efforts.
The hands-on training offered participants a deeper understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of key analytical methods. It aimed to improve the operations of soil laboratories nationwide, ensuring consistency in testing and analysis. The insights gained from this training will help foster sustainable agricultural practices and boost productivity across the Philippines.
The knowledge gained from this training will be highly useful for DOrSU, particularly in preparation for the establishment and operationalization of the Institute for Soil and Water (i-SaW), which will focus on conducting research related to soil and water. This will further strengthen DOrSU’s contributions to agricultural research and development. (DOrSU PIO)
