President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday announced his administration’s goal to build permanent soil laboratories in all regions across the country, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the agriculture space and reduce dependence on rice imports.
The President made the statement during a forum with national grand winners of the 50th Gawad Saka: Parangal sa mga Natatanging Magsasaka at Mangingisda held at the Science City of Muñoz in Nueva Ecija.
“Mayron at mayroon na tayong nasimulan. Gusto naming maglagay ng permanent na soil laboratories sa bawat region,” Marcos said, adding that the initiative is currently in its initial phase.
“Ito’y Phase I pa lang… kaya’t pagpatuloy lang ang aming ginagawa para lahat ng tulong na maibigay natin sa ating mga mangingisda at farmer, gagawin natin.”
The President expressed optimism that, in time, the country can achieve rice self-sufficiency.
In line with the administration’s vision, Marcos previously launched the country’s first Mobile Soil Laboratory (MSL) in December 2024, housed in a customized 10-wheeler truck. The MSL is equipped with advanced tools and facilities capable of conducting 44 tests across chemical, physical, and microbiological parameters of soil.
This mobile lab was developed under the National Soil Health Program of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM). It is designed to offer accessible and science-based soil testing services to farmers and other agricultural stakeholders, promoting sustainable land use and enhancing crop yields.
Meanwhile, the Gawad Saka Awards—the Department of Agriculture’s most prestigious annual recognition in partnership with local government units—celebrates outstanding contributions by Filipino farmers, fisherfolk, scientists, and agricultural institutions. It honors their excellence and innovations in advancing food security, sustainability, and agricultural development in the country.