Around 50 farmers from various barangays in Plaridel participated in the Deployment of the Mobile Soil Laboratory (MSL) and Hands-On Training on Soil Analysis using the Soil Test Kit (STK) held on May 26 at the Jaime J. Vistan Multipurpose Hall.

The activity was spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office III through its Regional Soils Laboratory, in partnership with the Bureau of Soils and Water Management, the Provincial Agriculture Office of Bulacan, and the Municipal Agriculture Office of Plaridel.

The training aimed to enhance farmers’ knowledge of proper soil management through correct soil sampling techniques and the use of soil testing kits.

As part of the activity, experts conducted soil analysis on 185 soil samples, allowing farmers to receive immediate recommendations on fertilizer application and farm management practices.

Participants were also introduced to the Mobile Soil Laboratory, a state-of-the-art 10-wheeler truck capable of analyzing up to 42 soil parameters on-site. The facility enables faster soil assessment and helps farmers make informed decisions to improve crop productivity and maintain soil health.

Farmer-participant Ruff Justin Lucas expressed gratitude for the training, noting that it helped deepen farmers’ understanding of the importance of soil testing before planting to achieve higher yields and better-quality produce.

The Department of Agriculture said the deployment of the Mobile Soil Laboratory and soil analysis training sessions will continue in other municipalities across Bulacan to benefit more farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices.