By Kenneth Marcos 
In the quiet rice fields of Barangay Pook, Kalibo, Aklan, farmers gathered under the morning sun—not to till the land, but to receive a lifeline for their crops. Smiles and sighs of relief filled the air as 155 farmers were handed much-needed fertilizer support from the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM).
The distribution, held earlier this October, is part of the Adaptive Balanced Fertilization Strategy (ABFS) under the National Soil Health Program (NSHP). It aims to improve soil fertility and ensure healthy, productive farmlands through the proper use of both organic and inorganic fertilizers.
Full support for 100 hectares of rice farms
The support covered a total of 100 hectares of palayan (rice fields), with each farmer receiving a full fertilizer package good for one hectare. The package includes:
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4 sacks of Urea (46-0-0)
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4 sacks of Complete Fertilizer (14-14-14)
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1 sack of Muriate of Potash (MOP) (0-0-60)
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2 kilos of Zinc Sulfate
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10 sacks of Organic Fertilizer
This combination is designed to provide balanced nutrition to rice crops, strengthen plant resistance to pests and diseases, and help restore long-term soil health.
According to DA-BSWM, using both organic and inorganic fertilizers allows farmers to maximize yield while preventing soil degradation caused by overuse of chemical inputs. The fertilizer strategy is based on scientific soil analysis and tailored to local conditions.
Empowering farmers through science and support
The activity was led by the Soil and Water Access Team of DA-BSWM Region 6, in coordination with the Soil and Water Resources Research Division. The local government of Kalibo also played a key role in organizing the distribution and ensuring that the intended farmer-beneficiaries were reached.
Farmers expressed gratitude for the program, noting that the rising cost of fertilizers has made it difficult for them to afford complete nutrition for their crops. For many, this government support comes at the right time as they prepare their fields for the next planting season.
“Nakakagaan ng loob kasi may tulong na ganito. Makakatulong ito para mas maganda ang ani,” shared one farmer during the distribution.
A step toward sustainable, food-secure farming
The initiative reflects DA-BSWM’s commitment to long-term agricultural sustainability. Aside from increasing harvests, the goal is to maintain healthy soil for future generations and ensure the country’s food supply remains stable.
Programs like the National Soil Health Program and ABFS are part of the government’s broader push for a “Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas”—an agricultural future that is productive, resilient, and eco-friendly.
With strengthened farmer trust and consistent support, DA-BSWM hopes to inspire more local governments and communities to adopt science-based, sustainable farming practices.
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