𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃: The Department of Agriculture – Kabuhayan at Kaunlarang ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K Program) conducted its first training of the year, entitled “Soil and Water Quality Testing and Analysis for Sustainable Resource Management” from March 10-14, 2025, in Seed Hotel, Buntun, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.
The training aimed to educate participants, especially Indigenous Peoples, on the importance of soil and water testing and how to apply these practices to their communities or organizations. It also focused on identifying the correct water and soil types to ensure optimal agricultural production and livelihood development.
The activity began with welcome remarks from Dir. Rose Mary G. Aquino, PhD, the Regional Executive Director of Region 2. She warmly welcomed the participants and highlighted the progress in Ube production in the region. She also expressed her gratitude for the program’s ongoing support for Indigenous communities. Additionally, Ms. Loida Benitez- Basug, Senior Science Research Specialist of Quirino Experiment Station was invited to provide further information on Ube.
Following her remarks, the new Director of the 4K Program, Director Gilbert V. Baltazar, MPA, was introduced. He assured everyone that the management of the program would remain consistent and emphasized the continuous support for the Indigenous peoples’ livelihood development, including fostering new markets and enterprises.
Dr. Norodin S. Malugayak then explained the rationale and objectives of the training, emphasizing its importance, particularly for the Indigenous participants, as it would help improve their agricultural production and contribute to their community’s development.
On the second day, the formal training sessions began. Mr. Joshua Mikhel B. Reyes, RCh, Head of the Water Chemistry Section, discussed the vision and mission of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management – Land Use and Soil Division (BSWM-LSD), and introduced their six sections and their respective functions. He stressed the importance of water testing, including what to look for before conducting a test. He also explained how understanding water quality is vital for agricultural development and the potential use of water for irrigation suitability.
Next, Ms. Shirles S. Buduan, Head of the RST Section, discussed the importance of soil testing and monitoring soil health. She also explained how to conduct soil tests and how to resolve soil-related issues. Following this, Ms. Faye Arielli C. Buttaran demonstrated how to properly use water testing kits, allowing participants to conduct hands-on testing themselves.
On the following day, the participants visited Ubbog ti Namnama in Brgy. Naddungan, Gataran, Cagayan, where participants applied their newly acquired learnings. The group conducted on-site water and soil testing, practicing the techniques they had learned during the training. Participants also had the opportunity to demonstrate proper procedures for water and soil testing.
The training concluded with a feedback session, where participants shared their thoughts on how the training had benefited them and provided suggestions for future improvements. Special thanks were given to the host region, Region 2, and their focal person, Mr. Paul Vincent Balao, as well as the resource persons from BSWM and the support of BSWM Region 2.
The training proved to be an enriching experience, empowering Indigenous communities with the skills and knowledge necessary for sustainable agricultural development.
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