By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the morning sun in Victoria, Laguna, farmers watched as soil samples were carefully collected from their fields—an early sign that a new rice project was finally taking shape. For many of them, balanced and affordable fertilization has long been a challenge. This week, they saw a concrete step toward improving their yields.
From November 17 to 21, the Bureau of Soils and Water Management–National Soil and Water Resources Research and Development Center (DA-BSWM-NSWRRDC) through the HILLPEZ team launched a series of activities to prepare for the Adaptive Balanced Fertilization Strategy (ABFS) for Rice Project in the municipality. The initiative aims to help farmers use fertilizers more efficiently and sustainably, increasing rice production while protecting soil health.
The team started by coordinating with the local government of Victoria to ensure smooth execution of the project. They inspected both organic and inorganic fertilizers available in the area to check if they met the standards required for ABFS. This strategy promotes the proper combination of nutrients based on actual soil conditions, helping farmers avoid overuse or underuse of fertilizers.
To equip farmers with the right knowledge, DA-BSWM specialists conducted a technical briefing and a capacity-building session. During the training, agriculture experts explained how balanced fertilization can raise yields, reduce waste, and lower production costs. Participants also learned how soil health directly affects plant growth and how proper nutrient management can improve harvests even without expanding farmland.
Farmer-cooperators received fertilizer inputs needed for the project’s initial phase. The distribution is part of the government’s support to ensure that beneficiaries can immediately apply the lessons from the training once field operations begin.
The team also visited designated demonstration areas, where they carried out soil sampling and site assessments. These steps help determine nutrient levels, soil texture, and overall field conditions. According to DA-BSWM, accurate soil data is essential for creating a fertilization plan that matches the needs of each location.
Local officials expressed optimism that the project will help farmers in Victoria adopt better practices and improve their income. Balanced fertilization has been highlighted in recent years as a key factor in strengthening local rice supply, especially as farmers continue to face higher input costs and changing weather patterns.
As the preparations wrap up, DA-BSWM-NSWRRDC said the ABFS for Rice Project will serve as a model for other municipalities seeking to boost crop productivity through science-based nutrient management. For the farmers of Victoria, the work that began this week signals a renewed chance for stronger harvests and healthier soils in the coming planting seasons.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News