In keeping with our commitment to public service amidst Covid-19 pandemic, the DA-Bureau of Soils and Water Management – Soils Survey Division completed the field survey and soil sampling in the corn-growing areas of the Province of Negros Oriental.  Covering all 6 cities and 19 municipalities, a total of 996 composite samples were collected from March 16 – May 08, 2020. All samples are now being analyzed at the DA-Regional Field Office (RFO) VII – Regional Soils Laboratory (RSL) in Mandaue City, Cebu.

  • Collection of soil samples.
  • Collection of soil samples.
  • Field survey team
  • Field survey team

The activity is part of the 2016 SONA commitment project “Soil Health Assessment-National Soil Sampling and Testing” which aims to develop national soil-based agricultural guide maps in support to the DA’s twin objective of “Masaganang Ani, Mataas na Kita.”

Soil samples prepared, packed and ready for shipment to DA-RFO VII Regional Soils Laboratory.

Following the declaration of a national public health emergency and the imposition of the enhanced community quarantine, the BSWM Team, composed of Ms. Bella H. Noceda, Mr. Farley O. Conde, Mr. Norman A. Apura and 8 Field Assistants, was stranded in Dumaguete City. But with perseverance and dedication, coupled with the profound support and cooperation from the Provincial Government, under the tutelage of Hon. Governor Roel R. Degamo, the Provincial Agriculture Office headed by Mr. Nestor R. Villaflores, Provincial Agriculturist, and Mr. Roy E. Serion, Provincial Corn Program Coordinator, and the respective Mayor and Municipal Agriculturist of all City/Municipal Local Government Units, the successful completion of fieldworks was assured.

Meeting with (left) Provincial Agriculturist, Mr. Nestor R Villaflores and Mr. Roy E. Serion, Provincial Corn Program Coordinator; (right) Ms. Sarah J. Perocho, DA-RFO VII Agricultural Production Coordinating Officer for Negros Oriental.