By Kenneth Marcos 
In many crowded neighborhoods across the country, families rise each day surrounded by concrete, traffic, and heat. Yet beneath the roads, gardens, and sidewalks lies a resource often forgotten but vital to daily life: the soil that keeps our cities alive.
The Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR) joined the global community on Friday in celebrating World Soil Day 2025, highlighting this year’s theme, “Healthy Soil for Healthy Cities.” The agency reminded the public that even in urban areas, soil plays a crucial role in food security, disaster resilience, and overall environmental health.
DA-BAR said urban soils are frequently overlooked because people tend to associate fertile land with rural farms. However, the bureau stressed that cities depend heavily on healthy soil systems, especially as urban gardens, community farms, and green spaces become more important in addressing rising food costs and climate impacts. Healthy soil also helps absorb rainwater, reducing flooding—a problem that affects millions of Filipinos each year.
To support these goals, DA-BAR reaffirmed its commitment to fund research that improves the quality and productivity of soil in urban environments. This includes studies on soil contamination, nutrient management, rainwater absorption, and ways to expand sustainable urban agriculture. The bureau said these efforts can help local governments design better city landscapes and give communities the tools to grow their own food.
Experts warn that soil degradation—from pollution, waste, or uncontrolled development—can weaken food systems. The United Nations estimates that up to 90 percent of the world’s soil could be degraded by 2050 if no action is taken. In Metro Manila and other big Philippine cities, soil erosion, flooding, and contamination continue to threaten communities, especially those in informal settlements and low-lying areas.
DA-BAR emphasized that improving soil health is not only the responsibility of scientists or officials. The bureau called on researchers, urban planners, farmers, and ordinary citizens to work together to protect and restore soil ecosystems. Simple practices such as composting, proper waste disposal, planting trees, and supporting local agriculture programs can make a significant difference.
As the country moves toward more sustainable and resilient cities, officials said the public must begin viewing soil as a living foundation—one that supports food production, stores carbon, reduces heat, and strengthens urban communities.
DA-BAR hopes that this year’s World Soil Day will spark greater awareness and long-term commitment to protecting the ground beneath our feet, ensuring a safer and more livable future for all Filipinos.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News