Senator Cynthia Villar has acknowledged the significant role of Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) in enhancing crop productivity and farmers’ income as well.
Speaking during the 72nd founding anniversary of BSWM, Villar noted that the agency has been engaged in the sustainable use and management of soil resources.
“It’s efforts have contributed to the enhancement of agricultural productivity through soil conservation and sustainable agricultural land management, soil resources assessment and mapping, agricultural water resources management, analytical services, and soil and water resources research and development,” related Villar during the event,” Villar said.
Also present during the anniversary celebration were Cong. Adolph Edward Plaza of Agusan del Sur, Agriculture Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban, and BSWM director Dr. Gina Nilo.
The affair had for its theme “Nurturing Soil and Water Resources through Digital Innovation.”
“It is with great pleasure and pride that we commemorate the anniversary of this remarkable institution, which has been at the forefront of our National Soil Health Program,” the senator said.
She noted that the bureau has helped build a more resilient and environmentally conscious agricultural sector.
“It provides technical assistance to Filipino farmers throughappropriate soil resources management to maintain soil productivity and farm profitability and consequently boost the rural economy, enhance global competitiveness of local produce, and improve the quality of our soil and water, said Villar, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food.
Villar said since 2015, the BDWM has been her partner in distributing composting facilities nationwide.
“BSWM trains with us in Las Piñas because we have 89 composting machines that are barangay based.”
Due to this, she always makes sure BSWM has the budget and “we request the DA National Organic Program and High Value Crops to allocate funds. “
Over the years, she related that the BSWM has adapted to the evolving challenges faced by the agriculture sector.
However, it has embraced technological advancements, incorporated scientific research, and collaborated with various stakeholders to address emerging issues such as climate change, land degradation, and soil and water pollution.
This adaptability and forward-thinking approach have allowed the Bureau to remain relevant and effective in its mission
