President Marcos Jr. Hands Over 16 Mobile Soil Labs to Expand Coverage

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. handed over 16 mobile soil laboratory (MSL) units in Nueva Ecija on June 30, 2025. The turnover took place at the Science City of Muñoz. These units aim to cover all regions in the country, supplementing the first MSL launched in December 2024.

The MSL units are well-equipped with advanced facilities capable of analyzing 44 soil chemical, physical, microbiological, and water chemical parameters. The pilot MSL operation, which started in Tarlac and Nueva Ecija, has already analyzed around 1,500 soil samples, equivalent to over 300 hectares of land.

Regional Soil Laboratory chiefs will manage the day-to-day operations of the MSL units following the guidelines set by the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM). President Marcos highlighted that the project aims to provide farmers with knowledge and technology for scientific farming methods and to assist agencies in formulating agricultural policies based on real needs.

The lab test results from the mobile laboratory can be shared with farmers within five days. Initially, the services will be offered for free. The MSL is part of the BSWM's National Soil Health Program.

According to the source: Manila Bulletin.