By Kenneth Marcos 
In the quiet farming town of Majayjay, Laguna, local farmers are joining forces with government experts to find better ways to grow healthier, more abundant vegetables—starting with the humble kamote.
From September 15 to 16, 2025, the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM), through its National Soil and Water Resources Research and Development Center for Hillyland Pedo-Ecological Zone (NSWRRDC-HILLPEZ), conducted field activities to support the Adaptive Balanced Fertilization Strategy (ABFS) for vegetable crops.
The initiative focuses on promoting sustainable farming practices through proper soil and fertilizer management.
Assessing the Harvest and Soil Health
During the two-day activity, the team gathered important data on the sweet potato harvest, including:
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Total yield per area
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Amount of marketable vs. unmarketable produce
Soil samples were also collected after harvesting to assess changes in soil condition. These samples will help determine the nutrient levels left in the soil and how future crops might be affected. In addition, plant samples were taken to measure dry weight and understand how much nutrients the kamote plants absorbed during the growing season.
Experts say this information is key to creating accurate fertilizer recommendations that match the needs of both the crop and the local soil. The goal is to improve vegetable production while avoiding wasteful or harmful use of fertilizers.
A Smarter Way to Farm
The Adaptive Balanced Fertilization Strategy (ABFS) is a science-based method that promotes using just the right amount of fertilizer—no more, no less—based on the unique conditions of each farm. It takes into account soil type, crop needs, climate, and past farming practices.
BSWM says that balanced fertilization helps farmers increase their yield while reducing costs and protecting the environment. Overusing fertilizers not only wastes money but can also lead to long-term soil damage and water pollution.
Why It Matters
Majayjay is known for its cool climate and sloping farmlands, making it a prime area for growing root crops like kamote and leafy vegetables. However, many farmers in upland or hilly areas still face challenges with soil fertility, erosion, and unpredictable weather.
By participating in programs like ABFS, these farmers are not only helping improve their own harvests but also contributing to the development of national strategies for sustainable vegetable farming.
The DA-BSWM encourages more farmers, especially in upland areas, to participate in future research and training efforts. With better soil data and improved practices, the agency hopes to support the government’s broader goals of food security and a more resilient agriculture sector under the Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas campaign.
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