By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside the bustling Central Laboratory Auditorium of the University of Santo Tomas, chemistry students applauded as the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) received recognition for its outstanding role as a Host Training Establishment in internships. The event took place on February 16, 2026, during the National Chemistry Week: Catalyst Connections 2026, highlighting the agency’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of chemistry professionals.
BSWM Director IV, Dr. Gina Parde-Nilo, accepted the award on behalf of the bureau and its host partners. In her speech, she expressed gratitude to UST for the recognition and emphasized the importance of collaboration between government agencies and universities to produce highly skilled graduates in soil and water management.
Dr. Parde-Nilo also highlighted the government’s support for soil laboratories under the leadership of DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. She noted ongoing initiatives including the establishment of 17 Mobile Soil Laboratories (MSL), upgrading all 17 Regional Soil Laboratories (RSL), and plans to expand Provincial Soil Laboratories (PSL) nationwide. These programs aim to deliver accurate soil data that farmers, planners, and decision-makers can use to improve land productivity, strengthen food security, and enhance farmers’ livelihoods.
The BSWM team present at the event included Ms. Florfina Sanchez, Chief of Chemistry Section, who supervises and trains students during their On-the-Job Training (OJT); Ms. Nancy De Sagun, Head of Personnel Section, responsible for coordinating with universities; and Ms. Kristine Grace P. Nilo, Project Officer I, who handled event documentation.
Students and faculty warmly welcomed the bureau, with notable attendees including Rev. Fr. Quirico T. Pedregosa, Jr., Acting Regent of the College of Science; Prof. Rey Donne S. Papa, Dean of College of Science; and faculty chairs of the Department of Chemistry. UST student Faye Julianne Quinio Rafael shared that her OJT at BSWM allowed her to enhance technical skills while deepening her understanding of sustainable agriculture and environmental preservation.
BSWM continues to supervise and regulate soil laboratories nationwide under Presidential Decree 1435. It has earned global recognition as the National Reference Laboratory for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Global Soil Partnership (GSP), and Asian Soil Partnership (ASP), and for its excellence in proficiency testing through the Food Fertilizer Technology Center (FFTC). Dr. Parde-Nilo also spearheaded the creation of the Center of Excellence for Soil Laboratories in Asia, promoting global standards and collaboration across the region.
Through these efforts, BSWM reinforces its mission: “Lupa’t Tubig ay Pag-ingatan at Pangalagaan,” ensuring that soil and water resources are managed sustainably to boost agriculture and livelihoods for every Filipino.
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