President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced plans to establish permanent soil laboratories across all regions of the Philippines, aiming to reduce the nation’s reliance on rice imports.
Speaking during the 50th Gawad Saka awards ceremony in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Marcos emphasized that the initiative is already underway. “This is just the first phase. Our goal is to provide continuous support to our farmers and fisherfolk,” he said.
Marcos expressed optimism about the future of Philippine agriculture, envisioning a time when the country will be self-sufficient and no longer heavily dependent on imported rice. “That will be our benchmark for success—when we significantly cut back on rice imports,” he added.
In line with this vision, the first mobile soil laboratory (MSL) was launched in December at Malacañang. The high-tech, 10-wheeler truck is equipped to analyze 44 different soil parameters, enhancing access to soil health services for local farmers. The mobile lab is part of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management’s National Soil Health Program.
The Gawad Saka awards, the Department of Agriculture’s highest honor in collaboration with local government units, celebrates Filipino farmers, fisherfolk, scientists, and institutions for their innovation and dedication to achieving food security and sustainability.