A state-of-the-art soil testing laboratory seen to help improve the work of farmers in the province, has opened in Agusan del Sur.

Located at the Provincial Capitol Government Center Complex in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, the laboratory was inaugurated on Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

The center aims to address one of the priorities of the provincial government - that is, the needs of farmers - since agriculture remains the primary livelihood of residents in the province.

The provincial government has allocated more than P400 million for the project.

“So naisip namin na if we can put up one in the province of Agusan del Sur, we will be able to improve also the lives and conditions of our Agsurnon farmers kaya itinayo namin to,” Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr. said.

BENEFIT

The facility is equipped with modern technology capable of analyzing more than 100 samples per day, with test results available within one week.

By testing the soil, farmers will be able to determine the appropriate types of crops suitable to specific soil conditions, as well as identify the right fertilizers to apply.

This approach is seen to help farmers mitigate common farming inefficiencies, such as the misuse of agricultural inputs that contribute to yield failures and financial losses.

The facility is also capable of analyzing plant, water, and gas samples.

“It will be the LGU that will pay the cost of the soil analysis so ang farmer, libre, but only if you are a farmer of Agusan del Sur,” Cane said.

COLLABORATION

The provincial government has coordinated with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research on the project.

“We are now ensuring this facility once again working for international accreditation process. Through this work supported by ACIAR, you will be able to access the guidelines and the best practices and share your practices worldwide,” Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Hae Kyung Yu, said.