President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. inaugurated the country’s first-ever Mobile Soil Laboratory (MSL) on Friday.
This state-of-the-art facility is designed to enhance agricultural productivity by providing farmers with critical soil health data and modern farming techniques.
Speaking at Kalayaan Hall in Malacañang, the President hailed the MSL as a historic milestone in the government’s efforts to strengthen the agriculture sector and ensure food security.
“This is a historic day, marking a vital step in our mission to secure sufficient food, prosperous communities, and a more united nation. This initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to supporting our farmers and boosting the economy,” the President said.
The MSL, which is a project under the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) as part of the National Soil Health Program, is equipped to analyze over 40 chemical, physical, and microbiological soil parameters.
It will deliver test results to farmers within five days, helping them optimize fertilizer use, improve soil health, and achieve higher yields.
For its first year of operations, the MSL’s services will be provided free of charge, allowing farmers to transition to more scientific farming methods.
Additionally, the mobile lab will serve as a training hub to educate farmers on new technologies and soil management practices.
Initially, the MSL will operate in San Ildefonso, Bulacan, at the National Soil and Water Resources Research Development Lowland Pedo-Ecological Zone. The government aims to deploy an additional 16 mobile soil labs nationwide by early 2025, with one in every region.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel announced plans to procure 16 more MSL units that will be deployed across various regions to make soil analysis more accessible.
“This will align with President Marcos’ vision of boosting farm yields and increasing farmers’ incomes,” Laurel remarked.
President Marcos noted that the project aligns with Presidential Decree No. 1435, which strengthens the capacity of soil laboratories.
“By empowering our farmers with scientific tools and knowledge, we are not only ensuring their livelihood but also laying the groundwork for a more productive, healthier, and resilient Philippines,” he said.
The event coincided with the celebration of World Soil Day, which emphasizes the critical role of soil in food production, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability. The President urged the BSWM to lead the country’s collective action in soil and environmental conservation.
“This day symbolizes our determination to build a more productive and prosperous nation,” he concluded.