BSWM SOILSCAPE is the official soil and water resources … First... · 2013-11-12 · January‐March 2012, Vol. 3 No. 1 The Laboratory Services Division Your Partner To A Better

JanuaryJanuary‐‐March 2012, Vol. 3 No. 1March 2012, Vol. 3 No. 1

The Laboratory Services Division Your Partner To A Better

Farming Enterprise

Bureau of Soils and Water Management SRDC Building, Elliptical Road corner Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City

BSWM SOILSCAPE is the official soil and water resources assessment

quarterly bulletin of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management

Soilscape

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CONTENTS 3 5 6 7 8 8 9 10 10 11 12 13 14 14 15 17 18

The Laboratory Services Division YOUR PARTNER TO A BETTER FARMING ENTERPRISE

Profile of the Manpower Resources

What the Laboratory Division Has to Offer Pursuing Analytical Services To Advance

BSWM Mandate

Tapping the Potential of Tricho for Organic Fertilizer Production

LSD Offers Free Training on Tricho and Legume

Inoculant Production

Laboratory Museum at BSWM

JICA’s QCAM Project in Cambodia Ends with Director Tejada’s Visit

Filipinos in ODA Featured in Japan Newspaper

BSWM Supports Farmers Mining Communities in Leyte Through Private‐Public Partnership in

Organic Agriculture Projects

Innovative Mindoreños on Vermi Compost Production

LSD Supports BSWM Project

NUFFIC Grantee Back from the Land of

Windmills and Cheese

Engr. Rafael Monte Retires in October

BSWM Recognizes FIDOs

Jalani Receives Three Major Blessings

A Day in the Life of a Laboratory Analyst

BSWM Relevant Events

For more information visit http://www.bswm.da.gov.ph/

Editors Note The 2012 1st Quarter Issue of Soilscape features the Laboratory Services Division as part-ner towards improving soil and water analysis for a better farming enterprise. This highlights the products and services available in the division. This also gives you the opportunity to get to know the family of the Labo-ratory Services Division, all the staff professional background and their capacities. We wish to thank Ms. Anna Karenina P. Tejero, Chemist I from LSD for all the photos con-tributed in this issue. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for He founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters”, Psalm 24:1-2. A blessed greetings from your Laboratory Services Division family!

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The Laboratory Services Division YOUR PARTNER TO A BETTER

FARMING ENTERPRISE

S oil analysis has been a valuable tool for agricultural production. It has served as the basis for improved fertilization as well as adoption of many other production practices by farmers.

The Laboratory Services Division is committed in many ways to give em-phasis on importance of sufficiently broad support to farming communities by con-ducting information dissemination and trainings/seminars to farmers and techni-cians regarding the importance of the services offered. There is an increasing awareness and demand on the importance of the soil and water analysis as it re-lates to the issues and concerns in addressing the challenges of climate change, biodiversity, and land degradation. Thus, the partnership and networking has ex-panded to include the academe, LGUs, the public and private clientele among oth-ers from both local and international institutions. This necessitates the upgrading of Laboratory equipment and facilities to consider more advance application on top routinary analysis. Efforts were made to improve its facilities and equipment with GEF funding under Philippines Climate Change Adaptation Project.

Soil and Water Chemical Analysis Many farmers cultivate their farms without ever testing their soil. They are fortunate if their soil is not deficient or toxic in nutrients, neither too acid nor too alkaline. If their crops do not seem to be growing well, a soil test is the best start-ing point for putting things right and keen growers have their soil tested routinely each year. Professional soil testing is the most accurate for macro and micronutri-ents and this is conducted in a soils laboratory like the Bureau of Soils and Water Management. Recent developments in soil analysis now make it possible to as-sess the fertility status of soils, including problem soils like salt-affected soils. Another commodity that is important in farming is water for irrigation. There are many criteria in assessing water quality depending on the purpose for which it will be used. It is the amount and types of salts present that will determine the suitability of water for its intended use. All natural waters contain dissolved mineral substances collectively known as salts which can have detrimental effects on plants if present in large quantities. For irrigation waters, the usual criteria in-clude salinity, sodicity (sodium content) and element toxicities.

Soil Physical Analysis The analysis for physical properties of soil has been classically known as a tool in the construction industry. However, through years of intensive research on its application in agriculture, it has become important in agricultural land man-agement. In BSWM, soil physical analysis is geared towards optimum agricultural production by focusing on its necessity to crop production. Soil samples from the field are analyzed according to texture, structure, permeability, bulk den-sity and water retention. From laboratory data, the distinct properties of each soil class are known. These are fundamental to fertilizer application, ease of cultiva-tion, irrigation and construction of earth dams.

(Continued on page 4)

The Partnership

By Cecilia B. Orlanes

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For instance, physical properties such as texture and structure have profound effects on plant growth and on all kinds of soil manipulations and use. These effects in turn influence total non-solid pore space as well as pore size thereby imparting water and air relationship. The summary of both land and soil characteristics serves as guide to soil classification that can assist in the land evaluation and management.

Biological Production Legume inoculants increase grain legume yields through biological nitrogen fixation. They reduce the need for the application of N fertilizers and increase the grain yield and quality of crops. The BSWM is mandated to produce and conduct quality tests on various legume inoculants in order to help farmers increase their production. In line with the increasing awareness on biotechnol-ogy, production of Compost Fungus Activator (CFA) Tricho-derma harzianum, for rapid composting was established. Compared with the traditional method of composting which takes about three months, the use of the CFA accelerates the process in just three to four weeks.

Soil Test Kit The use of the Soil Test Kit (STK) will bring soil test-ing services right in the farm. Before the STK was introduced in the field, farmers have to bring their soil samples to a soil laboratory normally located in the capital town of a province. Experience shows that it takes at least two (2) weeks before the farmer get his fertilizer recommendation. The time can be shortened and with the introduction of more kits in differ-ent farm areas, even farmers themselves can provide ser-vice to their fellow farmers. The STK is an inexpensive, quick, handy and easy to use as soil testing tool. Results are obtained within an hour. It is therefore useful to farmers and extension workers to determine on the spot what kind and amount of fertilizer to use to a grown crop in a given farm.

The STK determines the pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. It is a qualitative type of testing and through color comparison, the deficiency or sufficiency of the ele-ment can be assessed.

(Continued from page 3) Rapid Soil Test Kit for Soil Micro-

Nutrients Rapid Soil Test Kit (RSTK) for soil micronutrients is a simple, low cost and portable soil testing kit. These kits can be used by farmers and agricultural technicians in the field to identify quickly soil micro-nutrient problems that limit rice and other crop production. The RST also informs the user about the other new analysis required to ensure that location-specific fertilizers are recommended. The RST in-cludes quick field analysis of Lime, Zinc, Calcium, Magne-sium, Sulfur, Ammonium and Nitrate. In conjunction with the regular Soil Test Kit (STK) that analyzes nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, the RST is expected to provide a more direct information about the adequacy and deficiency levels of both the major and minor soil nutrients. The information leads to a more precise fertil-izer recommendation. The Division conducts these analyses with accuracy through modern precision equipment. Its staff is updated on new technologies by undergoing much needed trainings, seminars and symposia. In coordination with other BSWM divisions, the Division makes a commitment towards greater farm productivity.

Services Offered: 1. Physico-chemical Analysis of Soil Samples

Soil Texture, Water Holding Capacity, Hydraulic Conductivity, Bulk Density, Moisture Retention, Sand Fraction, Atterberg Limit, Available P, Ex-changeable Acids, Exchangeable Bases, CEC, Electrical Conductivity, pH, Organic Carbon/Matter, Total N, Ammoniacal N, Nitrate N, Trace Elements, Extractable Aluminum, Free Iron Ox-ide, Calcium Carbonate

2. Chemical Analysis of Water Samples pH, Electrical Conductivity, Bicarbonate, Carbon-

ate, Sulfate, Chloride, Total N, Ammoniacal N, Nitrate N, Total P, K, Na, Ca, Mg and Trace Ele-ments

3. Assay of Fertilizers Total N, Total P, Available P, Total K, pH, Mois-

ture, Organic Carbon/ Matter, Calcium Carbon-ate, Ca, Mg, Na, S, Cl and Trace Elements

4. Chemical Analysis of Plant Tissue N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na Crude Silica, Sulfate, Elec trical Conductivity, Moisture Content and Trace Elements 5. Microbial Analysis of Soil Samples

Rhizobia, Bacteria and Fungi Available for Sale: 1. Legume Inoculants/Trichoderma 2. Soil Test Kits - for N, P, K and pH 3. Rapid Soil Test - for Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, and S Telephone Number: (02)923-0492 Fax Number: (02)923-0456 BSWM, SRDC Bldg., Elliptical Road, Corner Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City

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Profile of the Manpower Resources Laboratory Services Division Organizational Structure

Dr. Gina P. Nilo Chief Agriculturist

Armelyn C. Galicia

Agricultural Technician I

As one of the technical divisions of the BSWM, the Laboratory Services Division is equipped with highly competent staffs composed of chemists, agriculturists, engineers, biologist and others with science-related courses. They are qualified and well-trained in their fields of discipline, having attended trainings, seminars, workshops, conferences as well as re-cipients of scholarship grants both here and abroad. Among the 34 laboratory staffs, eight (8) staffs finished their post graduate studies, seven (7) Masteral and one (1) Doctorate Degrees in the Philippines and abroad. Kudos for the great performance and achievements!

Chemical Analysis Section

Luz Divina R. Sison

(Supervising Agriculturist)

Physical Analysis Section

Cecilia B. Orlanes

(Supervising Agriculturist) Leovigilio R. Bantigue (Senior Agriculturist)

Tom E. Balando (Agriculturist II)

Godofredo M. Ramos, Jr. Agriculturist II

Teodorico S. Erni Agriculturist I

Jaime B. Pascual (Agricultural Technician)

Biological Production Section

Lorna F. Santos

(Supervising Agriculturist) Josephine L. Nana

(Senior Agriculturist) Aurora M. Manalang

(Agriculturist II) Grace Sheila C. Jalani

(Agriculturist II) Reycel Dequila

(Laboratory Aide)

Technical Equipment Section

Rafael A. Monte

(Supervising Agriculturist) Edwin M. Galarrita

(Agricultural Technician Ernesto A. Belo

(Administrative Aide)

Soil Test Kit (STK) Section

Constancia G. Mangao

(Supervising Agriculturist) Isabel D. Nasis

(Senior Agriculturist) Agnes C. Morada (Agriculturists II) Pelagia C. Orpia

(Senior Science Research Specialist-detailed from CODA)

Soil Analysis Unit

Fe P. Vadil (Senior Agriculturist)

Beatriz C. Magno (Senior Agriculturist)

Maribel R. Jalalon (Agriculturist II)

Teresita A. Olmella (Agriculturist II) Gloria M. Urriza (Agriculturist II)

Florfina P. Sanchez Chemist II

Evelyn C. Ramos Administrative Aide II

Water Analysis Unit

Elvira M. Bautista (Senior Agriculturist)

Delia M. Sadiasa (Agriculturist II) Felicidad Zamora (Agriculturist II)

Roberto S. Mabuti Agriculturist II

Fertilizer and Plant Analysis Unit

Vilma Quimson

(Chemist IV) Shirley Buduan

(Chemist III) Madonna V. Go Lim Tai

(Chemist III) Edna Lynn C. Floresca

(Chemist II) Anna Karenina P. Tejero Chemist I (Contractual)

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What Laboratory Services Division Has to Offer

Pursuing Analytical Services To

Advance BSWM Mandate By Luz Divina R. Sison

T he Laboratory Services Division provides analytical services to farmers and the general public and supports the different

division activities like soil classification, mapping and correla-tion studies for identification of the proper management measures to mitigate soil and water limitations. The division which consists of five sections is headed by Dr. Gina P. Nilo. The Chemical Analysis Section conducts analysis of soil, water, fertilizer and plant tissues. The Soil Test Kit section produces and sells soil testing kits for rapid determination of the fertilizer status of soils. The data obtained form the basis for appropriate fertilizer/lime recommendations for various crops, specific to soils and climate conditions. The Chemical Analysis Section offers variety of soil analytical services. Routine soil testing for fertilizer recommendation is the most common request by clients. But soil test results are being used today mainly to assess the general fertility status of a cultivated soil, rather than only as a basis for fertilizer recom-mendation. Soil characterization is a more comprehensive work where analysts conduct complete chemical and physi-cal analyses on several samples taken from soil profiles from the surface to a depth of about one meter. The Physical Analyses Section determines the textural class, bulk density, hydraulic conductivity , water retention, etc. of the soil. The results obtained give information about the soil as basis for crop adaptability, land use capability and other fertility man-agement practices. Characterization data are also used in the taxonomic classification of soils. Based on the similarity of the chemical/physical properties, soils can also catego-rized as to order, suborder, etc. Soils found along coastline areas by sea water or breeze and low lying areas, accumulate excessive deposits

of calcium and magnesium salts. These soils are subjected to salinity/alkalinity tests, the results of which form the basis of correction or remedial measures to make the areas pro-

ductive. Water analysis is conducted to determine the fitness of water for irrigation purposes. Adequate and good waterfor irrigation is vital in crop production, therefore chemical tests are necessary to have good quality of water to use for irrigat-ing crops. It is also possible to determine the primary and micro elements in water. Fertilizer assay has a very important role in in-creased production. We can now check the guaranteed analysis on the fertilizer bags, because some unscrupulous manufacturers/dealers sell products that do not contain the correct guarantee. The sale of anomalous fertilizers has been averted ever since fertilizer analysis was initiated by the Bureau. Crop nutrient uptake is a good guide or index of the fertilizer requirement of crops and is helpful in updating the fertilizer requierement of plants. Plant parts are analyzed to determine how much of the nutrients are taken up by the plant from the soil, whether said nutrients are native in the soil or applied as fertilizers. The Soil Biology Section is in charge of soil inocu-lants production. A strain of bacteria or rhizobia is used to inoculate the seeds of legumes to enable the roots of the plants to form root nodules, capable of fixing


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By Aurora M. Manalang

For almost two decades, the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) has been promoting the use of Trichoderma harzianum or (Tricho), a Compost Fungus Activator (CFA) for composting of wastes. Tricho hastens the rapid decomposition of cellulosic wastes in four (4) weeks unlike the traditional composting process which takes about 5 to 6 months. Composting involves the bio-logical decomposition of organic wastes or cellulosic ma-terials such as rice straws, cogon, grasses, weeds, corn stalks, vines, corn cobs, bagasse, and animal manures be introduced to the soil as an organic fertilizer. One good thing about Tricho is that it improves soil quality by acting as soil conditioner and provides lasting benefits. It has no pathogenic effect on plants and as not harmful to human beings. With the increasing costs of chemical fertilizers, the farmers can produce their own organic fertilizers to minimize cost. To simplify the process, the BSWM launched the Organic Fertilizer Production Project (OFPP) and distributed nationwide to qualified recepients heavy duty shredder, three (3) vermi beds, 15 kilos of worms and two (2) units of tea brewers to produce liquid foliar fertilizers. After the agricultural wastes are collected and shredded, they are subjected to quick pre-decomposition process with the aid of Tricho. After 10-15 days, worms are introduced into the vermi beds which converts the composted materials into “vermicasts.” Numerous beneficiaries of the project have been producing high quality vermicasts and liquid fertilizers; some are even into commercial production. The BSWM has been receiving good feedback regarding the wonders of vermicasts and foliar fertilizers on rice, vegetable, fruit, trees and in many other crops. The compost or organic fertilizer is widely used as soil amendment to provide the following benefits: (1) improves soil fertility, soil tilt and soil structure; (2) supplies nutrients for crops; (3) supports living organisms; (4) improves buffer capacity of the soil; and (5) provides biological control to certain pests and diseases. Aside from advantages in composting organic fertilizers provide the following benefits: 1. Composts contain active microorganisms which help

in the decomposition of waste materials, thereby con-verting nutrients into readily available forms for plant

apping the Potential of Tricho for Organic Fertilizer Production

A gricultural wastes are common to farmers. But through the efforts of soil scientists and experts, they are able to define the procedure in managing agricultural wastes by converting them into more valu-able by-products like the production of organic fertilizers.

use. 2. It improves the physical condition of soil by promoting

soil aggregation and preventing surface crusting, thus improving water infiltration, plant root penetration and soil aeration.

3. It conserves the nutrients contained in animal ma-nures, sewage sludge and similar materials. This also supplies plant growth hormones not found in inor-ganic fertilizers.

4. It increases the buffering capacity of soils and mini-mizes the adverse effects of soil acidity and alkalinity.

5. It is practical to produce and lessens chemical-based farm inputs.

6. It continuously promotes sustained productivity. 7. Farmers find it more economical to supply organic

matter to the soil in the form of compost. 8. Farmers are freed from the burden of soil tillage as

compost improves the physical condition of the soil and increases its porosity and water holding capacity.

9. Farmers do not require expensive growth promoting enzymes and hormones because such can be deliv-ered by composts materials.

Many farmers cooperatives that shifted to organic fertilizer production have testified on its effectivity. The demand has tremendously increased because practical to produce organic fertilizer. The quality of organic fertilizer produced is made even better with the help of worms (African Night Crawlers) that convert the product into ver-micasts. Vermicasts are sold at P300.00/bag.

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Laboratory Museum at BSWM

A laboratory museum will soon rise at the third floor of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management’s (BSWM) building that will showcase old equipment,

glassware, and other materials used in soil, water, fertilizer and plant tissue analysis. The collection of exhibit materials is underway through the ef-forts of Engr. Rafael A. Monte and Ernesto A. Belo. The setting up of museum emanated from the idea to store and display the non-functional equipment to provide the visitors and students a view of the various antiquated laboratory that had been a part of laboratory analy-sis. Through concerted efforts of the staff, the Laboratory Museum will be operational hopefully this year.

C omposting is an alternative proce-dure for converting

on- farm organic waste materials into a farm resource. However, farmers in many parts of the world and even in developing countries are unable to benefit from the composting opportu-nities being extended to them, be-cause they lack awareness on effi-cient and expeditious labor-saving technology. The growing concerns relat-ing to land degradation, the inappro-priate use of inorganic fertilizers, atmospheric pollution, deteriorating soil health, soil biodiversity and sani-tation have rekindled interest in or-ganic recycling practices such as composting on the production of or-ganic fertilizer- as it enhances soil fertility, improved soil health and in-creased agricultural productivity. With the discovery of Trichoderma harzianum, Compost Fungus Activa-tor (CFA) by Dr. Virginia C. Cuevas from UPLB in 1986, the composting method has been simplified, mini-mizing labor inputs. Tricho hastens the decomposition of various agricul-tural wastes in just 3-4 weeks. By using Tricho, the farmer reduces the amount of inorganic fertilizer that he needs by 50%, thus lowering his production costs and continued use can result to increased yield based on nationwide trial on Modified Rapid Composting Technology. The BSWM adopted the technology for many years. It has even simplified the techniques of mass producing pure cultures of Tricho, more so, the manner of com-posting the wastes. Majority of the Regional and Provincial Soils Labo-ratories in the country including the recipients of OFPP Tricho Labora-tory Establishment Project have been trained on Tricho Production and in the process of rapid compost-ing of wastes. On the other hand, legumes inoculants are biologically prepared materials in a compounded soil mix-

ture containing a pure culture of ni-trogen-fixing bacteria or Rhizobia which symbiotically fix atmospheric nitrogen into a form that leguminous plant can assimilate. The use of leg-ume inoculants ensures the introduc-tion of effective N-fixing bacteria which reduces or eliminates the need for the application of N-fertilizer. Inoculation also increases the grain yield and quality of crops. Legume inoculation is a way of assuring that the Rhizobium strains is present in the soil, appro-priate for the seed to be planted at the proper time and number suffi-cient to assure a guide and effective infection and an efficient subsequent N-fixation. Inoculation is usually ac-complished by treating the seed or the soil with a mix of selected strains of bacteria and carrier called inocu-lums. Free training on Tricho and Legumes Inoculants Production can be offered to interested individuals, groups, students, farmer’s coopera-tives, technicians, crop growers, and

LSD Offers Free Training on Tricho and Legume Inoculant Production


entrepreneur. Request can be coursed through the office of the Director- Dr. Silvino Q. Tejada, CESO III.

Soil Inoculant and Trichoderma

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JICA’s QCAM Project in Cambodia Ends with Director Tejada’s Visit

B ureau of Soils and Water Manage-ment (BSWM) Director Silvino Q. Tejada attended the terminal evalua-

tion and final joint coordinating committee meeting of the project, “Capacity Building for the Quality Control of Agri-cultural Materials (Chemical Fertilizers and Pesticides)” at Phnom Penh, Cambodia on February 18-23, 2012. The Directors of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) and the Fertilizer and Pesticide Agency (FPA) were also invited being co-implementing partners of the project. Dr. Kazu-hiko Yagi of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Chief Advisor of the project, noted in his invitation to the Directors of the three agencies, “We believe it is a must to invite all of you for the evaluation and let you see and confirm the improvement materialized by Filipino ex-perts.” The project, otherwise called “QCAM Project,” was proposed by the Cambodian government to the Japanese government to strengthen regulatory control of the quality of fertilizers and pesticides traded in Cambo-dia. The project was launched by the Ministry of Agricul-ture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and JICA in March 2009. Technical staff of the Philippines’ Department of Agriculture were tapped as experts on the analysis of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and on the review of administrative and legislative works of the said agricul-tural materials. Ms. Edna Lynn C. Floresca and Ms. Elvira M. Bautista of the Laboratory Services Division of this Bureau, were among the seven Filipino experts dis-patched by JICA Manila Office to the QCAM Project. In the QCAM Project, the capacity building pro-gram of laboratories for fertilizers has two beneficiaries: the DAL Laboratory of the Department of Agricultural Leg-islation, and the Soil, Water, and Fertilizer Laboratory of the National Agricultural Laboratory, General Directorate of Agriculture, MAFF, Cambodia. Activities included: set-ting-up of laboratory equipment and facilities; conduct of on-the job training on the analysis of fertilizers; analysis of chemical fertilizers; and development of laboratory manu-als. A total of 11 laboratory staff from DAL and GDA par-ticipated in the training program. The capacity building of the laboratories was conducted over a period of four terms (in four to five month period per term) from July 2009 to October 2011. In the course of the training, the following manu-als have been developed: Manual on Fertilizer Analysis, procedures of which include quality control measures and acceptance criteria for test results; Manual of Equipment Operation and Maintenance; Manual on Method Valida-tion; Manual on Quality Management; Training Manual for the Capability Improvement of the Analytical Laboratory for Fertilizers; and a Compilation of Material Safety Data Sheets. Only the first two manuals were included in the project’s targets but the experts saw the necessity of de-veloping the additional four manuals to support the activi-ties of the laboratories.

The Philippines is also a beneficiary of a project similar to QCAM, the “Pesticide Monitoring System De-velopment Project” (PMSD Project) which was imple-mented from 1997 to 2002. Under this project, the BPI and FPA were supported and trained by JICA to develop and implement an effective pesticide monitoring system. The project had been implemented successfully, so that JICA decided to use the skills and knowledge of the trained Filipino counterparts in helping other developing countries. BSWM, though not a participant in the PMSD Project, was tapped to handle the capacity building of laboratories for fertilizers as per recommendation of the BPI and FPA experts, Ms. Ma. Lourdes de Mata and Dr. Wilma Obcemea, who were dispatched in the QCAM Pro-ject’s planning stage. BSWM experts are considered best fit to handle such aspect of the project because of their competency in this field which were developed in-house and through trainings in local institutes (e.g. University of the Philippines – Natural Science Research Institute). Mr. Toshinori Hamaguchi in his article, Filipino Experts are Playing Active Roles in Triangle Cooperation of the QCAM Project (JICA Project News, February 25, 2011) concludes “Cooperation projects is still small. The importance of the Triangle Cooperation will surely rise considering the efficiency in Overseas Development As-sistance (ODA).“

By Edna Lynn C. Floresca

nitrogen from the air to provide the nitrogen in the fertiliza-tion of legumes. The soil inoculant is a cheap substitute for nitrogen in the fertilization of legumes. Related to this is the assessment of microbial population in soil, water and various organic materials. In support to organic based agriculture, Compost Fungus Activator (CFA) using Trichodermae harzianum is also produced by the Section, to hasten the decomposition of farm wastes. The Laboratory has a schedule of charges which is imposed on analytical and products depending on the request. There is corresponding fee for every kind of test. To ensure the smooth and efficient delivery of services, the Technical Equipment Section attends to the proper care and upkeep of laboratory equipment. Equip-ment like pH meters, electrical conductivity meters, and weighing balances should be periodically checked and calibrated. The atomic absorption spectrophotometers, UV-VIS spectrophotometer, flamephotometer, Kjeldahl di-gester and distillation set-ups and NCS analyzer have to be properly maintained. The water still and fumehood have to be washed and cleaned regularly to ensure han-dling and shelf-keeping and chemicals hazardous to health but also negligence in the upkeep and maintenance of laboratory equipment and facilities.

(Continued from page 6)

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Filipinos in ODA Featured in Japan Newspaper

T wo Filipino experts were featured in the article entitled “Filipinos Con-tributing to Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA)” pub-lished in the Japanese national newspaper, Asahi, on September 28,

2011. The article, written in Japanese by Motoki Yotsukura and given an unofficial English translation by Toshinori Hamaguchi, presented the role of the Filipino experts and the challenges they faced in South-South Cooperation projects. The article was based on in-terviews with the Cambodian project counterparts, Japanese experts (JICA expert and JICA QCAM Project Chief Advisor), and the Filipino experts. Ms. Edna Lynn C. Floresca of the Laboratory Services Division of this Bureau, and Ms. Ma. Esperanza G. Uy of the National Pesticide Analytical Laboratory of the Bu-reau of Plant Industry, were dispatched as experts to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries in Cambodia by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) between 2009 to 2011. Ms. Floresca and Ms. Uy were tapped to train personnel of the DAL and GDA Laboratories in the analysis of fertilizer and pesticides for the quality control of these agricultural materials. Upon the completion of the training, the Cambodian counterparts can already independently analyze fertilizers and pesticides. According to Mr. Yotsukura, “Philippine experts generally have good reputation by people in the recipient countries because 1) they can work in good English (2) they are friendly and kind, and (3) they are good at teaching.”Mr. Pheav Chin Theng, one of the trainees interviewed by Mr. Yotsukura commented, “They teach us anything patiently even if we take time to understand.” Mr. Yotsukura records, “In the past, although other development organizations also dispatched their foreign experts, their works were not successful. Ms. Floresca says,

‘I think that we could understand Cam-bodia people more than the other ex-perts from developed countries be-cause my country was also like this country before.’” It was mentioned in the article that Mr. Hiroto Mitsugi, Deputy Repre-sentative of JICA Philippine Office, said that they will increase the number of Philippine experts especially those to support African countries.

By Edna Lynn C. Floresca

BSWM Supports Farmers Mining Communities in Leyte Through Private‐Public Partnership in Organic

Agriculture Projects

B ureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) in partnership with Nicua-Leyte Ironsand Corporation in Mac Ar-

thur, Leyte supports farmers of the two barangays hosting the mining company through the Organic Fertilizer Produc-tion Project (OFPP) and the Extended Modified Rapid Com-posting Project (EMRC). The mining firm has organized the Madig-on Farmers Association and the Mauswagon Farmers Association and assisted to their becoming recipients of OFPP support which took effect in September, 2011. The Farmers Associations now operate and manage the Small Scale Composting Facilities provided by OFPP. The vermi compost produced is supplied to the mining company at cost for its mined soil rehabilitation activities, providing additional income to the farmers, while allowing the mining company to operate with due care to society and the environment. The mining firm also recently constructed a building to serve as Trichoderma Laboratory which is furnished with equipment by the EMRC Project. The laboratory shall be used in the production of Trichoderma for application in rice production at the rehabilitated mined out areas. The activities in this private-public partnership are in support to DA’s programs for the promotion of organic agri-culture, and in pursuance to the goal of the Nicua-Leyte Iron-sand Corporation (NLIC) to conduct mining operation while enhancing the economic, social and environmental status of its host and affected communities through economically pro-ductive solid waste management practices.

In line with this, a three-day series of activities were held in December 19-21, 2011 at Mac Arthur, Leyte to launch out and promote the various activities of OFPP and EMRC. These include the following: 1) Orientation program on the Extended Modified Rapid

Composting Project 2) Visit to the organic fertilizer production facilities in

Barangays Pongon and Maya-Maya, and briefing on vermi composting technology to the OFPP beneficiaries.

3) Cutting of ribbon and blessing of Madig-on Farmers As-(Continued on page 29)

Ms. Mercedez Fernando, OFPP Head Secretariat awarding a ceremonial cheque to Mac Arthur, Leyte LGU.

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By Gloria M. Urriza

Innovative Mindoreños on Vermi Compost Production

T he BSWM’s Or-ganic Fertilizer Production Pro-

ject (OFPP) on Vermi Composting became the realization of my dream to serve my home province, as an agriculturist. Fortunately, the Project gave freedom to those involved to choose their own places of assign-ment, for monitoring the vermi com-posting facilities afforded by BSWM to different sites nationwide. I opted to be assigned in Oriental Mindoro. I am grateful that my “kababayans” became recipients of the project. This meant that I can directly com-municate with the townspeople and give some advice on various techni-cal matters. In my opinion it was high time for me to provide them some-thing worthwhile, in return for being a true blooded Mindoreño. The title of this article would probably have raised some questions to the reader; why innovative Mindoreños? What I would like to impart to the readers is the ability and innovativeness of the Mindoro farmers in dealing with the problems encountered in the produc-tion of Vermi compost, as well as discussing the creative solutions they provided. The project has received considerable approval among the farmer cooperators in the area, based from their experiences. They claim that the products of Vermicom-posting, such as the Vermicast and Vermitea, have contributed much to the productivity of their crops. The challenges encountered by the local farmers in their experiences have encouraged their innate innovative-ness and they rose up to the occa-sion by providing creative solutions to their problems. One of the most common problems in their vermi compost pro-duction was the attack of pests such as ants and rats. The farmers in the town of Pinamalayan made some innovation to counteract this prob-lem. As we can see in the figure be-low, they made an improvised box with four stands soaked in water to prevent the ants from eating the

The improvised box lined with fine mesh plastic screen and with stands soaked in water to ward off ants and rodents.

The box is lined with fine mesh plastic screen for the easy circulation of air and moisture and also to prevent the worms from escaping. To control rodents, the box was built with a cover that can easily be lifted up to open and close, thus blocking the entry of rats. This practice proved to be very success-ful, because in my succeeding visits, there were more such boxes constructed for additional worms. Local farmers indeed have the ability and talent to solve the practical problems they encountered. Being innovative is one characteristic that has evolved in every locality. The other site, in the town of Gloria, had a different style in controlling the pests that attacked their Vermi. This approach was more natural and organic and involved covering the Vermi beds with branches of Alagao, a plant that acts as a natural insect-repellant.

The application of Alagao leaves as cover for vermi, serves as insect repellants.

The Alagao branches also serve as a natural covering to maintain the moisture of the medium, in addition to its insect repelling properties. The vermi also seemed to prefer this natural means of control since they grew very well and flourished even more. Mr. Patrick Sigue of Bgy. G. Antonino, Gloria proved that Vermitea is very effective as foliar fertilizer for his crops. To produce more Vermitea, he upgraded his brewer to a 200 liter container. With these new containers, he can produce more tea for his farm consumption and share with other members of the farmers’ association.

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The Vermi site in Bgy. Victo-ria, Roxas, Or. Mindoro used their empty pigpens as extension of vermi beds as shown in the pictures below. Maximization of space to grow Vermi is an indication that the project has been very useful to the farmers.

The Vermitea brewer upgraded into 200 liters container.

To add more space for the growing population of vermi, a farmer used the empty pigpens as Vermi beds.

The site in Bgy. Labonan, Bongabon owned by Mr. Nelson Ga-butero is an indicator of the project success in the area. His creative-ness resulted in a modernized vermi farm. The water supply was already built-in in the shed. There are rows of vermi beds below and at the up-per deck were hundreds of sacks modified into vermi beds to maxi-mize production.

The extension of the Vermi beds complete with water supply.

The cooperator with new shed for vermi beds, complete with concrete path walk for easy access of the area.

Because of Mr. Gabutero’s technology and willingness to share his knowledge in producing Vermi compost, some farmer cooperators followed his techniques. Like the site in Bgy. Asiatic, Bongabon; in which and other recyclable materials as containers for Vermi composting were used.

Recyclable materials for additional vermibeds.

LSD Supports BSWM Project

I n accordance with the thrust and policies of the Department of

Agriculture, the Laboratory Services Division (LSD), formulates plans and programs for its efficient operation, establishes standards, procedures and techniques in the analyses of soil, water, fertilizer, plant tissue and other materials. It also provides ser-vices in the production and distribu-tion of legume inoculants, Tricho-derma harzianum and conducts qual-ity control of legume and BIO-N/Agri-Pinoy inoculants produced in all Re-gional and Provincial Soils Laborato-ries. Its services has been extended to the farmers and the general public through the conduct of analytical ser-vices in testing soil, water, fertilizer and plant tissue samples and techni-cal assistance among the Regional and Provincial Soils Laboratories.

The analyses, results and

data generated serve as a guide in the assessment of soil fertility, soil properties for soil taxonomic classifi-cation, and water quality for suitabil-ity. The results are likewise useful in the utilization of lime and fertilization; irrigation and construction of earth dams; land utilization and protection from the use of un-guaranteed fertiliz-ers. Soil analysis is a valuable tool for increased agricultural production and has served as the reference for im-proved fertilization and adoption of other production practices.

The Laboratory staff are also

involved in other projects including the Organic Fertilizer Production Pro-ject (OFPP); BIO-N/Agri-Pinoy Corn Project; Mindanao Rural Develop-ment Program (MRDP); Fertility Map-ping; Gawad- Kalinga Project; ACIAR Project; FAO-LADA Project; MinSOF Project; PHILCCAF Project; SSNM Project; HVCDP Project; JIRCAS, and some of them also serves as Front Line Information Development Officers (FIDOS) at the BSWM Client Center.

Indeed, the Laboratory Staffs

are truly admirable for their dedication toward their work despite the huge volume of samples they regularly re-ceive for various requirements not only of the BSWM but also of the dif-ferent clienteles.


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By Madonna V. Go Lim Tai

NUFFIC Grantee Back from the Land of Windmills and Cheese

A fter attending MSc Organic Agriculture in Wageningen Univer-sity and Research Centre from August 2009 to September 2011 under the auspices of the Netherlands Fellowship Pro-

gramme (NUFFIC), Madonna V. Go Lim Tai returns to her post as Chemist III at the Laboratory Services Division. The Dutch scholarship afforded her to study at the renowned university famous for its Life Sciences curricula and recently ranked

75th amongst 100 top universities in the world by the Times Higher Edu-cation World University Rankings. Aside from receiving lectures in mul-tiple land use, organic agriculture and food production chain from pro-fessors like Lijbert Brussaard, Egbert Lantinga, Arjen Wals, Ynte van Dam, Ken Giller and Edith Lammerts van Bueren who are well respected pro-fessionals in their field of expertise, another highlight of her study in-cluded various exposure to organic agriculture practitioners i.e. farmers, traders, researchers and policymak-ers in Netherlands, France and Ger-many. During her 2-year course, she was able to visit at least a dozen different organic and conventional

Day-to-day operations at De Groot organic dairy farm – owner Jan Dirk van de Voort giving supplemental food (concentrates) to their Jersey cows; the cows on their way to milk extraction room; “aging” the multi-awarded Remeker cheese.

farms for studying components of their farming systems as well as for leisure. Together with her classmates and teachers, she was able to participate in the largest organic trade expo in 2010 at Nurnberg, Germany – BioFach – which focused on production and trade of organic cosmetics and processed foods.

She was supervised by Dr. Egbert Lantinga and Oscar de Vos of Or-ganic Farming Systems for her masteral thesis enttled “Effects of the Decom-position of Fresh and Ensiled Grass Clover on the Dynamics of Copiotrophic and Oligotrophic Bacteria in Conventional and Organic Soils.” This study showed that decomposing fresh and ensiled grass clover had significant ef-fects on the culturable fraction of copiotrophs and oligotrophs present in con-ventional and organic soils. Carbon levels in the soil differentiate these two

trophic groups because copiotrophic bacteria are usually present in carbon-rich environ-ments while oligotrophic bacteria prefer habi-tats with low carbon flux.

The experiment was monitored by measuring the colony-forming units (CFUs) of the two trophic groups, mineral N in the soil and emission of NH3, N2O, CH4 and CO2.

Copiotrophs were found to stabilize faster in conventional soil while oligotrophic CFUs stabilize rapidly in organic soil. Faster de-composition occurred in organic soil com-pared to conventional soil as indicated by higher N mineralization and higher emissions of N2O, CH4 and CO2. The research was un-dertaken to better understand microbial proc-esses governing mineralization and storage of soil organic matter as well as give insights on farm management practices that increase losses in N and C through emission of NH3, N2O, CH4 and CO2.

Ten-day Practical Training at Arc en Ciel dairy farm, La Mayenne, France – ana-lyzing the pasture vegetation; manure quality; at the mechanized forage dryer; presenting the re-design proposal to the class and farmer .

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E ngr. Monte or “Paeng” to col-leagues and friends

will be retiring on October 24, 2012. This friendly guy with a calm demeanor joined the Bureau in 1978, a year after his graduation from Bicol University, College of Agriculture. While still in college, during the summer of 1975, he worked as a contractual employee in the Bureau of Soils, Albay. This experi-ence gained him confidence to apply for a position in BSWM. This started his fruitful career in the government. As an Agricultural Engineer in the Soil Conservation Research Section, Research Division, he served as a Study Leader in the conduct of different projects related to agricultural engi-neering such as Physical and Economic Evaluation of Se-lected Water Impounding Project at Lydia Marcos, Ilocos Norte, Quantification of the Changes in Crop Yield under Dif-ferent Degrees of Erosion, Validation of the Universal Soil Equation in Alabang, Bukidnon, Bulacan and Tanay, and In-fluence of Some Vegetative Barriers/Contour Buffers in the Production of Field Crops. The mentioned researches ca-tered to the research needs of soil conservation. The numer-ous accomplishment of Engr. Monte particularly his meaning-ful Soil Conservation Studies in the Upland/Sloping Areas merited him an award as Outstanding Employee during the 34th anniversary of the Bureau of Soils in June, 1985. Moreover, his research paper on Consumptive Use and Climatic and Soil Parameters won a certificate of recog-nition for having won the Fifth Place, Best Research Paper in the 1994 R and D In-House Review and Planning Workshop. After his research – filled years, he was promoted to Supervising Agriculturist at the Laboratory Services Division. He said his work in the laboratory is quite different from his former duties and functions. With research, he was on his own doing in the field whereas working in the laboratory en-tails a lot of “pakikisama” with the ladies and must be ready to provide assistance in terms of equipment maintenance and trouble shooting. Nevertheless, his resiliency enabled him to cope up with such position. In addition to Engr. Monte’s regular assignments, are his pro-active participation in different Bureau’s banner programs such as Balance Fertilization Strategy (BFS) Tipid Abono, Modified Rapid Composting and presently, the Or-ganic Fertilizer Production Project (OFPP). Likewise, he is a member of the BSWM Bids and Awards Committee (BAC). He was an active officer of the BSWMEA for several years and was one of the instruments in the registration of the As-sociation at the Securities and Exchange Commission as a non-profit organization in 1999. As an officer, he inspired sports-minded BSWM employees to participate in the 1st Sec. Roberto M. Pagdanganan Invitational Cup spearheaded by DAREA in 2003, where BSWM team ranked 2nd over five (5) competing teams. A sports enthusiast, he revels in being a sports coor-dinator every BSWM sportsfest, he even plays his favorite games of chess and table tennis. He is good in his chosen field.

Engr. Rafael Monte Retires in October When asked on how he feels about his coming retirement, he simply smiled and said, he has mixed emotions. A little bit sad, for he will surely miss the bureau and the company of nice people he usually communicate with for 34 years. Excited, for the remuneration and other retirement benefits and lastly, happy, for the ample time he’ll be shar-ing with family, relatives and friends, as well as attend to business and social/religious activities. Engr. Monte is happily married to Annaliza L. Valida and blessed with

three (3) children. His two (2) sons are now both profession-als. “Paeng”, as you join the rank of retirees, we wish you the best! We will miss you.

By Cecilia B. Orlanes

BSWM Recognizes FIDOs

T wo staff from the Laboratory Services Division, MS. AURORA M. MA-NALANG and MS. BEATRIZ MAGNO,

have been recognized for their outstanding contributions and commitment as Frontline Information Desk Officers (FIDO) at the BSWM’s Client Center. The two were recognized during the Seminar -Orientation of FIDOs on the National Convergences Initia-tives (NCI) held last December 12-13, 2011 at the BSWM. The Client Center was established last June 17, 2009 in response to Republic Act No. 9485, better known as the Anti- Red Tape Act of 2007 and CSC Memoran-dum Circular No. 12 Series of 2008. The legislation aims to improve efficiency in the delivery of government ser-vice to the public by reducing bureaucratic red tape and preventing graft and corruption. The Client Center serves as a one-stop-shop of the bureau where various services are mostly provided to clients. It is also the central hub of the BSWM’s information, technologies, various products sold (like books, CDs, maps, legume inoculants, Tricho, STK, RST, mushroom, fruiting bags, etc).

LSD Staff Bags Awards and Special Cita-tions during the BSWM 6Oth Anniversary

Celebration Special Citation Cecilia B. Orlanes (Supervisory Technical) Individual Category (For their Aurora M. Manalang commendable performance/ Roberto S. Mabuti achievements) Teodorico C. Erni


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ciety of Agriculture UPLB Chapter in recognition for her continued interest in the advancement of agriculture and allied discipline.

God’s blessings continued to pour on Sheila. Last year, through the endorsement of Dr. Gina P. Nilo, Chief of the Laboratory Services Division, and Dr. Silvino Q. Tejada, Director of BSWM, she was awarded a fellowship to take part in the 54th UNEP/UNESCO/BMU Interna-tional Short Course on Environmental Management for Developing and Emerging Countries - Climate Change Adaptation held at the Centre for International Postgradu-ate Studies of Environmental Management (CIPSEM), Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Federal Republic of Germany from October 13 to November 11, 2011.


Jalani Receives Three Major Blessings “A master’s degree. An outstanding

thesis finalist award. A foreign training.”

T hese were God’s major blessings for the past three years in the profes-sional life of Ms. Grace Sheila P.

Jalani. Sheila, as she is fondly called, is a staff of the Laboratory Services Division doing the microbiological aspects of soil, water and fertilizer analysis. In November 2009, after three and a half years of tough yet fulfilling struggle, she finished her Master’s degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology with minor in Genetics at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), Laguna. This was under the Southeast Asian Ministers of Educa-tion Organization-Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Studies and Research in Agriculture (SEAMEO-SEARCA) scholarship. Sheila is very grateful to the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) for the endorsement to the said scholarship and for the support given to her particu-larly when she needed extension of her study leave for the completion of her thesis. Entitled “Genetic Diversity of Natural Populations of Bactrocera occipitalis (Bezzi) and B. philippinensis Drew and Hancock (Diptera:Tephritidae) in Selected Mango Producing Areas in the Philippines Using Microsatellites,” her thesis was nominated by her major adviser, Dr. Rita P. Laude, to the 2010 Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Ad-vanced Science and Technology Research and Develop-ment (DOST-PCASTRD) Search for the Outstanding The-sis and Dissertation in Advanced Science and Technol-ogy. It was selected as finalist under the Biology and re-lated fields discipline, which gave Sheila the opportunity to present it before the panel of judges on December 6, 2010 at the National Institute of Physics, University of the Philippines Diliman. She and her adviser accepted the award during the awarding ceremonies held on Decem-ber 10, 2010 at the Intercontinental Hotel, Makati City. Although her research was not accepted for publication in the journal “The Philippine Agricultural Scientist” due to some technical reasons, Sheila is proud that she was able to contribute valuable data that would be very useful in the identification of the above-mentioned fruit fly spe-cies. In addition to these achievements, Sheila also holds a life membership in the Gamma Sigma Delta Honor So-

Sheila receives her diploma for her Master’s degree during the UPLB 38th Commencement Exercises on April 24, 2010.

Group photo of the participants and organizers of the 54th UNEP/UNESCO/BMU International Short Course on Environmental Man-agement for Developing and Emerging Countries - Climate Change.

Sheila, accompanied by her thesis major adviser, Dr. Rita P. Laude, accepts her award as finalist in the 2010 DOST-PCASTRD Search for the Outstanding Thesis and Dissertation in Advanced Science and Tech-nology.

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Jointly organized by the TUD, Fed-eral Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU), United Nations Envi-ronment Programme (UNEP), and United Nations Educational, Scien-tific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the course aimed to contribute to the environmental ca-pacity building for the development of integrated sound strategies to-wards the adaptiton. climate change. It was attended by 22 participants from twenty different countries namely, Jordan, Argentina, Ghana, Burkina Faso, The Gambia, Brazil, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Armenia, Co-lombia, Sudan, Nigeria, India, Philip-pines, Jamaica, Guatemala, Nepal, Thailand, Uzbekistan, and China.

The curriculum comprised of lectures, seminars, and laboratory and field works on soil protection and conservation, soil erosion and management, soil quality, risk as-sessment in urban and rural regions, integrated water resources manage-ment, regional climate change sce-narios, land use planning and deci-sion support, land use and flood pro-tection, knowledge-based bio-economy, regional climate adaptation strategies, gov-ernance and biodiversity, and re-mote sensing and Geographic Infor-mation System (GIS). Like in any other international training courses, the participants presented their re-spective country reports. Sheila, rep-resenting the Philippines, presented the relevance of organic agriculture to climate change adaptation in the Philippines. Educational Tours to differ-ent institutions in Germany were

(Continued from page 15) made to illustrate the administrative and economic management at-tempts of climate change adaptation. These institutions include (1) Julich Research Center, Julich; (2) German Federal Institute of Hydrology, Koblenz; (3) Leibniz Universität Han-nover, Hannover; (4) Federal Minis-try of Environment, Berlin; (5) Ger-man Advisory Council on Global Change, Berlin; (6) German Council for Sustainability, Berlin, and; (7) Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies, Potsdam. Through these educational tours, the participants were given the opportunity to know the ongoing research projects and see the high technology facilities and instrumentation of the said institu-tions. These include the studies em-ploying nuclear magnetic resonance

(NMR) spectroscopy at the Julich Plant Phenotyping Centre, the ex-periments using monolithic lysime-ters at the Julich Forshungzentrum, and the wave generation experi-ments in the large wave channel of Hannover and the multidirectional wave basin with 3-D wave maker at the Coastal Research Center of the Leibniz Universität Hannover. CIP-SEM also organized a one-day semi-nar on European and United Nations Perspectives on Climate Change Policy on November 4, 2011 at the Dresden International University. Aside from the course par-ticipants, local and international graduate students from different uni-versities in Dresden also attended the said event. Two lectures were presented during the seminar. Dr. Christian Patermann of the Euro-pean Commission presented a lec-ture entitled “The Future of Food and Feed and the Bioeconomy – Per-spectives for Research. In here, Dr.

The course participants doing laboratory and field works.

Patermann introduced the concept of bioeconomy, which includes all in-dustries and economic sectors that produce, manage or otherwise make use of biological resources including bio-waste. According to him, the im-plementation of the bioeconomy might be the answer to the increase of worldwide demand for food, feed, fiber and fuels. Mr. Mahesh Prad-han of UNEP, on the other hand, discussed the organization’s strate-gies on climate change adaptation, focusing on climate change ecosys-tem-based adaptation, which is the use of biodiversity and ecosystem services as part of an overall adapta-tion strategy to help people and communities adapt to the negative effects of climate change at local, national, regional and global levels. The open forum was very interesting because there was a thorough dis-cussion of issues concerning climate change. The points of discussion were on governance, technology access, best practices and capacity building. During the course, the partici-pants were divided into three working groups according to region namely, Asia, Africa, and South America. Each of the groups formulated a policy brief on climate change adaptation, which they presented at the end of the course. The policy brief was each group’s recommendations on land use, water resources, energy and govern-ance. Among these were adequate land management practices, stringent enforcement of land use plan, use of conservation agriculture, promotion of water conservat ion measures/technologies, integrated water re-sources management, mainstreaming renewable energies, energy equity, and effective and good governance. The course culminated with the award-ing and closing ceremonies held on November 11, 2011 at the TUD Fest-saal im Rektoratsgebäude. With her successful comple-tion of the course, Sheila was awarded a Certificate of Proficiency in Climate Change Adaptation. She hopes that she will be able to transfer the knowl-edge and skills she acquired from the course through involvement in the Bu-reau’s programs and activities con-cerning climate change.

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A Day in the Life of a Laboratory Analyst

By Maribel R. Jalalon

W elcome “MARIBEL,” it was 7:50am displayed on the Bio-metric screen. Thank God, af-

ter waking up early at 4:30 in the morning, preparing food and things for my school children and defying the heavy traffic at EDSA, I arrived safe and sound at the BSWM office. Like every ordinary day being assigned at the Laboratory Services Division, doing laboratory analysis, from weighing of soil samples, reagents and glassware preparation to the laboratory analyses following the Stan-dard Operating Procedures (SOP), it is natural for us to be equipped with protective gadgets such as laboratory gown, gloves, gas mask when performing work to ensure safety and protection from any laboratory hazards. I do my work with care to attain accuracy in ensuring quality results released to our clients. “Follow-up of results for Lab. No. S-143.” “Please tell the client that the result will be avail-able tomorrow,” ate Divine answered. This oftenly oc-curred clients following-up the status of their submitted samples, thus, it is necessary that we be conscientious and strictly observed time management to deliver the ex-pected output on time. “Lunch time”. It was almost 12:00 noon and each one of us was ready for lunch break. It was a great pleasure to have lunch together, chatting concerning vari-ous issues from entertainment, weather report, govern-ment particularly the latest news of Chief Justice Co-rona’s impeachment trial. Everybody has his/her share of opinion. “Announcement! We have a meeting at 1:30 this afternoon,” Mylene said. It was time for our scheduled regular meeting conducted by the Division Chief to be able to determine the status and updates of different divi-sion program project activities. This is to ensure that we are in the right direction of the project implementation. Furthermore, laboratory staff concerns were discussed in order to bring harmonious relationship among staff for a smooth flow of work as well. “Call from Client Center, regarding soil analysis, FIDO anyone.” As a technical staff of the laboratory and a Front Information Desk Officer (FIDO) it is my duty to assist and provide technical assistance to clients like stu-dents conducting researches for their thesis, NGO’s, gov-ernment institution and farmers seeking information on soil nutrient deficiency/sufficiency in relation to agriculture.

This was a sample of my stint as FIDO. “Good afternoon Sir, what can I do for you,” as I greeted the cli-ent politely. “Good afternoon too Ma’am, I have brought soil sample from our rice farm, please advise me on what to do because our yield decreases despite fertilizer applica-tion” “Okay Sir, first let your soil be analyzed to deter-mine its fertility status. From here we can recommend application of the right kind and proper amount of fertil-izer. Also, it is necessary to identify whether the soil suf-fer from deficiencies or toxicities of micronutrients. It was also advised that the source of your irrigation water be examined to determine its irrigation suitability. It is like-wise recommended to use organic fertilizer in your farm if it is available in your area. Application of organic fertilizer improves soil physical and chemical condition. You can likewise produce your own organic fertilizer or compost by decomposition of your farm waste through the use of Compost Fungus Activator (CFA) or Trichodermae har-zianum as catalyst. It is available in our Biological Pro-duction Section. The Laboratory Services Division has five (5) different major sections and functions. From soil physical and chemical analysis, water salinity, fertilizer recommendation to plant tissue and fertilizer analysis. As a public servant, we are willing to serve you with regard to our agency mandate.” It was almost 5:00 pm. While sitting and prepar-ing myself for home, contemplating on the complexities of my job as a laboratory analyst in a government institution, elation still filled my heart that again I was able to impart my knowledge and had an opportunity to serve the public the best that I can. Perhaps whatever kind of work we have….we must instill happiness in it. “Goodbye MARIBEL,” it was 5:00 in the after-noon.

The author as shown doing her work at the Laboratory Division

Loyalty Awardees

15 years in service- Madonna V. Go Lim Tai; Roberto S. Mabuti; Aurora M. Manalang 25 years in service-Evelyn C. Ramos; Shirley S. Buduan; Teresita S. Olmella; Teodorico C. Erni; Beatriz C. Magno; Agnes C. Morada; Jaime B. Pascual 30 years in service- Dr. Gina P. Nilo 35 years in service - Ernesto A. Belo; Fe P. Vadil 40 year in service - Luz Divina R. Sison


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By Karen Salandanan-Bautista

BSWMSpearheadstheOrganizationalMeetingofthePCSD‐CCMRD‐LandandWaterSub‐committees

T he Bureau of Soils and Water Manage-ment (BSWM) reached another mile-stone in strengthening its position as

the key agency on land and water resources conservation and management. Through the efforts of the STREEM (Strengthening Coordination for Effective Environmental Management) project and issuance of the Philippine Coun-cil for Sustainable Development Resolution No. 1 reactivat-ing the four sub-committees of the Committee on Conser-vation and Management of Resources, it was designated as the Chair of two sub-committees: Land and Water Re-sources. The other sub-committees, Atmosphere and Biodi-versity, were chaired by the Climate Change Commission and Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau, respectively. As the designated Chair of the Land and Water Resources Sub-committees, the BSWM called for an or-ganizational meeting last February 29, 2012 at the Conven-tion Hall. Participants came from National Government Agencies (NGAs), civil society organizations (CSOs), aca-deme and private sector. Dir. Sivino Q. Tejada, CESO III, gave a warm wel-come to the participants. He likewise presented the country commitments and obligations to the United Nations Con-vention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and discussed how the BSWM as the UNCCD-Philippines Focal Point Agency can further provide the necessary leadership in the operationalization of the Land and Water Resources Sub-committees. To provide participants with a holistic perspective on how the PCSD-CCMRD and its sub-committees will work, NEDA-Agriculture Staff Assistant Director Luisa

Jolongbayan discussed the structure and functions of the PCSD while STREEM program officer Ms. Liezel Bobadilla presented the CCMRD Business Plan. To facilitate the finalization of the composition of the two sub-committees, Dr. Gina P. Nilo and Engr. Samuel M. Contreras presented the proposed core and expanded members and solicited responses and comments from par-ticipants. Taking into account their inputs during the open forum, the structure of the Land and Water Resources is as follows.

Land Resources Sub-committee Chair: DA-BSWM Co-chair: DENR-Forest Management Bureau (FMB) Co-chair (CSO): Civil Society Counterpart Council for Sus-tainable Development (CSCCSD) Vice-chair: DILG Co-vice chair: NEDA-Agriculture Staff Members: DA-Policy and Planning, DA- BAR (Bureau of Agricultural Research) DENR- LMB (Land Management Bureau), DENR- MGB (Mines and Geosciences Bureau), DENR–EMB (Environmental Management Bureau), DENR-NAMRIA (National Mapping Resources Information Author-ity), DENR-PAWB, DAR (Department of Agrarian Reform), Laguna Lake Development Authority, DOST-PAGASA, DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways), HLURB (Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board), CCC,


(From left to right) NEDA-Agriculture Staff Asst. Director Luisa Jolongbayan, BSWM Dir. Silvino Q. Tejada and Dr. Gina P. Nilo of BSWM.

Director Silvino Q. Tejada, CESO III of BSWM.

relevant events BSWM

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By Jose D. Manguerra

T he officers and members of the Mt. Balagbag Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Sitio Balagbag, Brgy. San Isidro in

San Jose Del Monte in Bulacan, went on a tree-planting activity recently to coincide with their monthly meeting and Christmas celebration. The cooperative is headed by Romulo S. Lodriguito, Chairman, who delivered the welcome re-marks, and Sergio Apilado, Vice-chairman, who hosted the program. The other officers and committee chairmen who attended the event were Marzon Tinay, Secretary; Teresita Guillermo, Treasurer, and Elmie Foronda Roldan, Joeffery Motado and Ereneo Bautista, Board of Directors; Marissa Solano, Chairman, Committee on Election; and Glorina Hernandez, chairman committee on inventory. Also present were Mrs. Crispina M. Belen, June Quintana and Rustico Manulat, Advisers. SJDM Mayor Reynaldo S. San Pedro would have been special guest and speaker but he was unable to come. He was however duly represented. Also present were Engr. Jose Manguerra of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), and Ms. Flora San Felipe of the City Agriculture Office. The Mt. Balagbag Multi-Purpose Cooperative Soil Conservation Guided Farm Project is a joint undertaking of the Local Government of the City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan thru the City Agriculture Office and City Environment and Natural Resources Office and the BSWM thru the Soil Conservation & Management Divi-sion.

Mt. Balagbag Multi-Purpose Cooperative Members Go Tree-

Planting in Bulacan Tree Planting Activities at Mt. Balagbag Soil Con-servation Guided Farm Project Barangay San Isidro, City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan-Rodriguez, Rizal Janu-ary –December 2011 Total No. of Tree Planting - 19 times Total No. of Mahogany planted - 800 trees Total No. of Bamboo planted - 2,700 trees Total No. of Narra planted - 1,500 trees

Note: Other information given above were culled from Manila Bulletin, January 7, 2012 Issue.

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in the Bureau of Soils Status of Digital Soil Mapping

and Water Management

I t is still classical soil mapping for routine soil survey and classification activities in the Philippines. Nevertheless, the Bu-

reau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) has the necessary equipment for Geographic Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) as well trained man-power complement to conduct digital soil mapping pres-ently done at research and project level basis. Our cur-rent digital soil mapping research is focused on the map-ping of land attributes of the watersheds of Cabulig, Misamis Oriental and of Inabanga, Bohol through a re-search grant from the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). With three months of field soil survey work to commence this February 2012, the research will develop methods of rapid soil measure-ment that allow quick and inexpensive (though less pre-cise) measurements/ estimates of important soil attrib-utes. This recognizes that, in the face of soil variability, the appropriate strategy is to make lots of inexpensive measurements rather than a few, precise and more ex-pensive ones. Rapid soil measurement methods include the use of proximal sensors, such as visible/near infra-red and/or mid infra-red spectrometers, and pedotransfer functions to estimate soil attributes. These methods still require the use of conventional laboratory and field meas-urements on a proportion of sample locations, to provide local calibration. We also have FAO-funded land degra-dation assessment to harmonize our digital data holdings with global land degradation data. Furthermore, we are in the process of acquiring satellite imageries to cover the whole country and once processed, re-issue all our maps based on orthoimages. While digital soil mapping may still be a long way to go for BSWM, nevertheless, this seems the only way to go as we are faced with hiring moratorium which when once lifted, we are faced only with computer literates but classical soil survey illiterates in the job market. We thank the organizers of this East Asia Node Conference for enabling us to participate in the partnership.

Introduction

The demand for soil information in the Philippines today is much greater than it was decades ago. The need for soil data as input to policy formulation, rural de-velopment planning, and researches is no longer confined to the traditional fields of agriculture, architecture and construction. The environmental science field for in-stance, as a matter of national policy, requires Environ-

mental Impact Assessment and proposed set of environ-mental protection management practices for major pro-jects prior to issuance of an Environmental Compliance Certificate in order to promote mandatory self-monitoring and compliance to environmental standards. Soils is the third of three important environmental pollution that in-cludes also air and water that is given special attention considering its vital role in waste management and nutri-ent recycling. The field of meteorological sciences is now focused with climate change modelling and soils, espe-cially its role in regulating hydrological cycle is brought to the fore. The Bureau of Soils and Water Management, a staff bureau of the Department of Agriculture, is the sole nationally mandated government agency on soils. Its activities encompass all the sub-disciplines of soil sci-ence; with its water mandate limited to water as a vital agricultural resource. The Bureau’s soil survey and clas-sification activities dates back as early as 1903 when an American soil scientist, Mr. Clarence Dorsey, conducted the soil survey of Batangas province. The actual inven-tory of soils in the country started in 1934 when the Soil Survey Committee was organized by then Secretary of Agriculture and Commerce. This inventory was carried out in each and every province but because of limited laboratory facilities and available technology during those periods, the reconnaissance type of soil survey based on soil profile observation was used. Most of the laboratory analyses were mainly for soil fertility assessment. The profile observations recorded the key characteristics of the soil series, the key pedological unit used for mapping the soils of the province. The soil survey work was briefly interrupted by World War II and it was not until after the war in 1945 that the Soil Survey Division was organized. It was in June 5, 1951 that the Congress of the Philippines enacted Re-public Act No. 622 organizing the Bureau of Soil Conser-vation. Reconnaissance provincial soil survey activities continued. The reports were published in scales ranging from 1:75,000 (Cavite) to 1:250,000 in general while Pala-wan, a big province, was mapped at exploratory scale of 1:500,000. This variation in map publication scale was done to conform with the actual size and shape of the individual provinces, especially the island provinces. In 2011, we just celebrated our 60th Anniversary as the na-tional soil resource agency. In 1964, the Bureau was renamed Bureau of


Paper presented during the GlobalSoilMap.net East Asia Node Conference – Advancing the Science and Technology of Soil Information in Asia: Launch of the Global Soil Partnership’s Asia Soil Science Network and its East Asia Node, 8‐11 February 2012, Nanjing, China

By Dir. Silvino Q. Tejada and Rodelio B. Carating

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Soils with regional as well as provincial soil districts es-tablished to bring the services closer to the farming com-munities. The reconnaissance soil surveys of the 75 provinces that then constituted the Philippines were com-pleted sometime in mid-1960’s. A total of 348 soil series were mapped and identified. There is lack of pedological descriptions and laboratory analyses of the representative pedons which made these early efforts rather difficult to link with the USDA Soil Taxonomy system of classifica-tion that the Bureau later on adopted. Nevertheless, be-ing the only document for Philippine soils, these studies are the most important source of information in the prov-ince and the only credible soil maps for use in the various agricultural development planning and studies. The succeeding decade of the 70’s was charac-terized by detailed soil surveys at 1:10,000 scale mostly carried out for irrigation development projects with assis-tance from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Organization. This also marked the first major attempt to use equivalent USDA Soil Taxon-omy classification for each of the soil series. The sur-veys, however, were mostly confined to alluvial flooded lands covering four major irrigation projects mostly in Central Luzon, with a total area of about 152,000 hec-tares and 59 new soil series were identified. The succeeding decades of the 1980’s and 1990’s were semi-detailed soil surveys with map scale of 1:50,000. About 20 provinces with 5,496,690 hectares were surveyed. The Bureau’s history mirrored the tumult that rocked the Philippines in mid-1980 as Corazon C. Aquino was swept into presidency by the People Power Revolution. In January 30, 1987, the Bureau of Soils was reorganized into the Bureau of Soils and Water Manage-ment retaining its staff function of soil resources survey, agricultural land resources evaluation, conservation, and research but its mandate was broadened to include the development and management of water resources through the construction of small water impounding sys-tems, the promotion of shallow tube wells, and other wa-ter resources technologies to alleviate the impact of pro-longed drought on standing crops. Included in its broad-ened mandate is artificial rain making or the conduct of cloud seeding sorties over areas suffering from seasonal aridity. The 1990’s was dominated by two five-year tech-nical cooperation with the Japan International Coopera-tion Agency (JICA) which improved the capability of BSWM to provide soil analytical data and ushered a com-puter-assisted map digitization and spatial analyses through the establishment of Geographic Information Sys-tem (GIS) and Remote Sensing laboratories. The JICA technical cooperation extended for another five years until 2005. The first decade of the new millennium continues with municipal-level updating of soil resources as a major component in the delineation of our Strategic Agriculture and Fisheries Development Zones (SAFDZ) as required by Republic Act 8435 known as the Agriculture and Fish-eries Modernization Act. The SAFDZ is to be integrated to Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) of the local government unit. It remains the current focus of its soil



Some of the GIS Involvements

CORN CLUSTER (SAFDZ)

ASEAN-JAPAN

ARIS (EPMMA)

ACIAR: INABANGA WATERSHED

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survey and classification mapping to these days.

Soil Survey Activities in BSWM Today

BSWM is still in traditional soil survey. That is despite the presence of Geographic Infor-mation System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) facilities and competent staff that have undertaken graduate stud-ies here and abroad, with one completing his PhD in Aus-tralia just this 2011. Since the introduction of state-of-the-art GIS and RS facilities in BSWM by JICA in 1991, we have upgraded our equipment including softwares four times – in 1997 through technical cooperation project with JICA as we migrated from mainframe to desktop comput-ing and established our local area network, in 2003 also through technical cooperation project with JICA, in 2008 through a World Bank loan under the Diversified Farm Income and Market Development Project (DFIMDP), and in 2011 through a national government appropriated spe-cial fund under the Unified Enterprise GIS Project with the Department of Agriculture. We have the technical com-petency, we have the state-of-the-art equipment and fa-cilities. We have also updated our Soil Survey Manual to accommodate the latest developments in the USDA soil survey methods and soil profile description but we are yet to implement these changes because we are also yet to redesign our Soil Information System to accommodate the changes. Obviously, our soil survey and cartographic staff are yet to be trained on developments in various stages of digital soil mapping, except perhaps on the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) where this is already part of the field survey protocol. We have also completed our manual on map standards and symbols for soil and water GIS. Standard procedures certainly differ for analog cartography with procurement and drafting of topographic maps to be used as base maps as against digital cartography where we just retrieve satellite imagery or the various thematic lay-ers/shape files of pre-digitized base maps. With Mobile GIS, these satellite imageries and base maps can be loaded to personal digital assistance (e.g. hand-held tab-lets) for use in the field where field surveyors can put an-notations and edit digital data that can be transmitted im-mediately to project management team in the central of-fice through the internet. Map elements during map com-position also differ in analog cartography and in digital cartography and we have already pre-defined as part of digital mapping standards the line specifications, mark-ers, and annotations to imprint the so-called BSWM trademark for consistency of map outputs. Staff perform-ance evaluation is being arranged with the Civil Service Commission to be dependent on number of metadata produced for various geographic datasets for us to be able to handle the complex and voluminous spatial data warehousing and retrieval operations that comes with digital soil mapping and cartography. Nevertheless, digital soil mapping through the


use of GIS/RS technological advances and computational advances such as application of geostatistical interpola-tion are being conducted but at experimental or at project level phase, not as a routine soil survey activity.

Why this Discrepancy?

First, is our organizational structure. We have one division handling the field soil survey activities, an-other division handling cartography, and another unit han-dling integrated soil resources information technology. Call it the relict of technological evolution in soil mapping through the decades. Secondly, we are currently faced with hiring moratorium because of national government re-organization efforts. As the Bureau strives to keep up with the soil mapping developments, the hiring morato-rium prevents us from filling up vacant positions with the so-called information age generation; leaving us with ag-ing staff only familiar with traditional soil survey and tradi-tional way of doing things, without understudies. With due respect of course to our technically competent soil surveyand cartographic staff, a saying goes that it is diffi-cult to teach old dogs new tricks. Perhaps until we are re-organized and re-structured and the hiring moratorium is lifted, then we will be able to implement “digital” reforms and improvements in our routine soil survey activities.


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Digital Soil Mapping Activities in BSWM

Digital soil mapping in BSWM is basically done at experimental or at project level phase. We can take a look at some of the past and current highlights.

1.Geostatistical Interpolation of Soil Properties

As early as 1993, we have attempted geostatisti-cal interpolation using GEOEAS software and MS-DOS (286-based) computers for 4.25 km x 4.25 km spatial vari-ability analysis and mapping of selected soil properties in reconnaissance soil surveys of Cavite province. By 2005, computer technology was far too advanced. We did a catenal variability of soil properties in our techno-demo farm in San Ildefonso, Bulacan;and the semi-variogram analysis and kriging for isarithmic mapping were done using ILWIS on Pentium IV at a fraction of time it took us to do the 1993 study. We could also play with the kriging results by overlaying topography as well as sampling points on the colored kriged results representing the level of interpolated soil property concentration. What a con-trast to the MS-DOS computer output which was nothing more than isarithmic lines similar to topographic lines that took quite several minutes of computer-aided interpola-tion to produce.Today, with Core i5 and Core i7 proces-sors and ArcGIS 10, ILWIS, and ENVI constituting our hardware and software inventory, respectively,kriging is but just a breeze and can be done as routine if it would be required by our soil surveyors. This of course could not be just done like that without collaboration with our Labo-ratory Services Division asgeostatistical interpolation ef-forts have implications on the number of soil samples to be analyzed in the laboratory. And this would have a cor-responding implication on the national government appro-priated funds for the Bureau considering escalating costs of laboratory chemicals.

2.Computer-Aided Agricultural Land Evaluation We used ALES developed by David G. Rossiter of Cornell University for land evaluation during those 286 IBM-PC platform days. Dr. Rossiter himself came to BSWM to introduce the software. Nowadays, we leave it to the staff. Some use very simple program, as simple as Microsoft Excel to generate the algorithm for FAO land evaluation framework for each of the soil mapping units, to more formal Soil Information System sub-set which we call the Soil Productivity Capability Classification System, to more sophisticated spatial data overlay using any com-mercial GIS softwares available in our Bureau. It is the staff level of competence to handle computer assisted evaluation that determines the level of agricultural land evaluation technology to be used. A number of our staff still rely on traditional manual rating.

3.Use of Hyperspectral data to Map Soil Surface

Features We have one staff, Dante Margate, who con-

(Continued from page 22) ducted a study using HYMAP airborne hyperspec-tralscanner and operated a GER3700 Spectroradiometer during the conduct of his masteral studies in ITC in 2000. He worked on an image acquired the year before, cover-ing an area of 4 km breadth and 20 km length with spatial resolution varying from 5 to 10 m. The data was atmos-pherically corrected and converted into absolute reflec-tance using the ATCOR4 (2D) model. Georeferencing of the image, using only 3 bands, was carried out in ILWIS using 25 ground control points and applying affine trans-formation. A topographic map at a scale of 1:10,000 was used as a base map. Field spectral measurements were carried out to identify “desert-like” soil features such as surface accu-mulation of salts, calcium carbonate, and surface accu-mulation of gypsum materials. Reflectance spectra were obtained by comparing the radiance of the target with a reference panel (BaSO4 panel), made successively, and compared automatically to produce the reflectance meas-urements. Full profile descriptions, following the FAO-1990 Guidelines for Soil Profile Description were carried out in some selected observation points to understand the general soil distribution pattern in the study area, which was a semi-arid area of Tabernas, Almeria in southeast-ern part of Spain. Soil classification was carried out based on USDA Soil Taxonomy and World Reference Base for Soil Resources. The field identification of “desert-like” soil features were later confirmed by laboratory analyses. Spatial lo-cations of these soil features were determined using Gar-min 12XL GPS receiver. For post field work, spectral measurements of soil samples were also carried out at laboratory conditions using GER spectroradiometer to obtain the reflectance spectra. A 500 watts halogen lamp was used as light source positioned at about 15ozenital angle illuminating directly the sample.Spectral measure-ments at laboratory conditions were utilized to establish specific spectral response of each target parameter. The interpretation of aerial photographs was car-ried out according to geopedologic approach developed by Zinck in 1988 and the delineations were according to geologic units. A total of twenty five photographs at ap-proximate scale of 1:20,000 covered the entire study area. An uncontrolled mosaic was produced and digitized in ILWIS as vector map. Goemetric corrections were done using 40 ground control points after converting into a raster format. The geocoded HYMAP image was used as the base map for the necessary corrections. Established reflectance curves, after matching with image spectra, were used to classify an atmospheri-cally corrected airborne hyperspectral data of the study are. Spectral angle mapper, an algorithm which com-pares image spectra and individual spectra of specified targets, was applied. The spatial distribution of each “desert-like” soil feature was verified to the soil-landscape pattern of the area. A strong absorption feature at around 380-410 nm for all soil samples was selected and correlated with soil color parametes (hue, value, and chroma). Signifi-cant correlation existed between value and depth, value


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and area, value and asymmetry, and hue and width. The study asserted that based on the 33 soil samples ana-lyzed, the mean organic matter content was only 0.7% and therefore, the masking effect of organic matter on reflectance of other soil constituents was minimal. Soils with relatively high silt content showed higher reflectance. Significant correlation coefficients were o b -served for electrical conductivity values with depth, width, and asymmetry at wavelength of 800-810 nm, implying that the depth of the absorption feature of this wavelength interval increased with the degree of salinity. The study also constructed a normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) from the available bands of the image to show the extent of vegetation coverage. Using Spectral Angle Mapper, extensive areas were classified to be calcareous soils, around 40% of the total area. Saline soils occupied 17% while desert pavements covered 11%. Except for the overestimation of exposed gypsum and the occur-rence of several pixels on unrelated units, the spatial dis-tribution of “desert-like” soil surface features was found to be reasonable.

4. Use of Remote Sensing to Support Soil Fertility Assessment

We have another staff, Juliet Manguerra, who used spectral response of selected soils to assess their nutrient conditions. Three major agricultural soils – Al-fisols, Inceptisols, and Ultisolsat varying levels of nitro-gen, phosphorus, and potassium were collected and their spectral reflectance was measured in the laboratory using Ocean Optics S2000 Miniature Fiber Optic spectrometer at wavelength intervals of 400 to 850 nanometers. The spectral responses were analyzed using analysis of vari-ance (ANOVA), spectral derivative analysis, and spectral resampling technique to sensors of selected satellite im-ages. ANOVA was used to determine whether the soil orders and the different nutrient levels differ significantly in reflectance responses. Derivative analysis established the most responsive wavelength and the degree of differ-ences in reflectance values among the samples. The Spectral Library Resampling menu of ENVI 4.0 was used to resample the spectral data file of the samples. The spectral data inputs were resampled to match the re-sponse of the instruments of Landsat TM, Landsat MSS, SPOT and ASTER satellite sensors. ENVI assumes criti-cal sampling and uses the Gaussian model. Spectral resampling matched the measured spectral data using the spectral sensitivities or filter windows of the sensors of Landsat TM/MSS, ASTER and SPOT along the elec-tromagnetic spectrum. The central wavelength absorp-tion by soil order and nutrient conditions was derived for the respective bands of the satellite sensors. Spectral curve were plotted to the corresponding bands of Landsat TM/MSS, ASTER and SPOT. The ANOVA proved that there is a significant difference in the mean reflectance values of soil order and moisture content. Phosphorus-treated samples showed a remarkable difference in spec-tral response in all the soil orders as compared to those of nitrogen and potassium. Correspondingly, the increas-ing levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium by soil order demonstrated significant differences in the mean reflectance values. Spectral curves for the three soil or-ders and elemental nutrients have proven to be distinct along 400 – 850 nm of the electromagnetic spectrum.

(Continued from page 23) The derivative analysis established the most re-sponsivewavelength and the extent of difference in reflec-tance values displayed the degree of separabilitybetween soil order and nutrient condition. The outcome of the re-sampling technique done has given comparable results with the spectrum derivative analysis; both have provided similarities in spectral patterns in all the soil types and nutrient conditions at specific wavelength in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The spectral data measured can be identified and the reflectance re-sponse varies in the different bands of SPOT, ASTER, and Landsat sensors. The established reflectance curves could support image classification analysis relative to soil nutrient mapping. Validation is crucial using other tech-niques. The possibility of development of spectral data-base specific to Philippine soils to support image analysis in soil fertility mapping is possible.

5. Current BSWM Digital Mapping Research Ac-tivity (ACIAR-funded): Mapping land soil at-tributes of Cabulig, Misamis Oriental and Inabanga, Bohol watersheds using digital technology.

We have a research project funded by the Aus-tralian Centre for International Agricultural Research

(ACIAR) on Watershed Evaluation for Sustainable Use of Sloping Agricultural Lands in the Southern Philippines. The project has just completed the reconnaissance sur-vey last December, 2011 and would commence three months of field survey work beginning February, 2012. The first objective is to improve the efficiency with which land attributes are mapped by using digital soil mapping techniques to produce more detailed and quanti-tative maps. Digital soil mapping (or, more broadly, digital land resource assessment) has two components. First is to develop methods of rapid soil measurement that allow quick and inexpensive (though less precise) measure-ments/ estimates of important soil attributes. This recog-nizes that, in the face of soil variability, the appropriate strategy is to make lots of inexpensive measurements rather than a few, precise and more expensive ones. Rapid soil measurement would allow measurements to be


25

made at a far greater proportion of observation locations and increase the data density. The methods include the use of proximal sensors, such as visible/near infra-red and/or mid infra-red spectrometers, and pedotransfer functions to estimate soil attributes. These methods still require the use of conventional laboratory and field meas-urements on a proportion of sample locations, to provide local calibration. The second component of this objective is to im-prove spatial prediction of land attributes directly without the intermediate step of using soil type. This involves de-riving statistical models of the relationships between land attributes (measured at point locations as discussed above) and spatial data covering the whole area of inter-est. Such data include digital elevation models and satel-


Land Resources Evaluation Identification of land degradation Hot Spots using ArcView

3.2 and ILWIS 3.2, Inabanga Bohol Watershed

lite imagery. Overall, the strategy is to adapt digital land re-source assessment techniques to the conditions in Philip-pine upland watersheds to provide maps of land attributes with better utility and at lower cost. This will give a more complete picture of a watershed when combined with other data from rapid appraisal including land use and socio-economic information. This project will use spatial information to deter-mine where technologies resulting from previous projects can best be located in the landscape, both by identifying vulnerable areas that require protection and their crop requirements. Spatial land suitability information will be used to enhance community and government agency de-cision making. This adds a new aspect to community par-ticipation and adds value to previous ACIAR projects in the Philippines.

6. Immediate Plans Digital soil mapping as a routine soil survey activ-ity is definitely a long way to go in BSWM but certainly the only way to go considering the retirement of our soil sur-veyors and the moratorium on the hiring of understudies to continue their classical soil survey work. Once our re-organization plan is finally approved and we fill-up our vacant positions, only computer literates but classical soil survey illiterates would be on the job market. We are faced with very limited options with continually evolving technology and changing labor market. Nevertheless, we have the current equipment and the manpower to cope with the transition. There has been considerable development in digital soil mapping technologies and methodologiesin the recent decade and its application in traditional soil survey is expanding. For now, BSWM is into FAO-funded project on harmonizing its land degradation assessment with the global data set. We are also in the process of acquiring satellite imageries to cover the whole country for orthoi-magery. Once processed, we intend to re-issue all our maps based on these orthoimages.

Summary and Conclusion

We are certainly eager to participate in this global consortium, not much for what we could get, but more so for what we could contribute. We recognize that we are a member of a global scientific community and we sub-scribe to what Jon Hempel was quoted during the Global-SoilMap.net initial meeting in New York on 17 February 2009, “Soil attributes are critical inputs for ecosystem ser-vices. We need to provide a consistent set of data that is geographically continuous, scalable, and which includes uncertainty estimates”. We recognize the set of global standards which we need to conform with so that our out-puts are consistent and in accordance with the specifica-tions of and acceptable to the international soil science community. We are grateful to FAO and to the organizing committee of this East Asia Node of the DigitalSoil-Map.net for inviting us to participate in the launching of this partnership. We look forward to fruitful years ahead of us.

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By Yolanda Abrina

Nowadays, life has changed for the people of Llanera especially the farmers because of the initiative of Mayor Lorna Mae B. Vero, to develop and uplift the life of the farmers and help them to become sustainable rice farmers. Efforts to look for ways and venture on possible, practical, and doable activities through various programs encourage families to participate actively in new initiatives geared towards providing them skills and capabilities to create ways to produce goods. The local Government believes that this will contribute positively to the allevia-tion of poverty and minimize if not totally eradicate hunger in this municipality. Through the local agriculture office, other local offices and with the interventions coming from the national government and non-government offices(NGO’s), agricultural and livelihood projects using innova-tive technologies have been conceptualized, evaluated and tested, grabbing every possible opportunity. The establishment of the Llanera Agricultural Technology Center (LATC) paved the way for the devel-opment, introduction, improvement, and implementation of modern technologies in the agricultural and livelihood sector. It becomes the center for new knowledge, infor-mation, and various technologies. It will also be the venue for trainings, technology demonstrations and other R&D programs. LATC coordinates with various agencies concerned with the development and use of technologies including those that provide technical services and infor-mation.

In September 2008, DA-RFU III and the Bureau of Soils and Water Management awarded one unit of composting facility to Llanera followed by another facility in 2009. The machines are being used by the entire mu-nicipality and through the municipal mayor’s initiative, hands-on-training of farmers were conducted which ig-nited farmers interest in venturing into vermiculture and vermicomposting. Trainees were given vermi kits after the training so that they can start practicing the technol-ogy in their backyards. Vermi kits include hollow blocks and cement for a unit of vermi bed, and African Night Crawler. Simultaneously, LATC has expanded the ver-miculture program by establishing improvised vermi beds using low cost materials. In March 24, 2010, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) thru the Public Employment Service Office-Municipal Cooperative Entrepreneurship Develop-ment Office granted PhP674, 232.00 for the purpose of establishing the Vermicomposting and Vermiculture Pro-ject in twenty-two (22) barangays with 156 farmer coop-erators. To date, there are 300 active farmer cooperators of the project who are also active members of the Haplos ng Buhay Vermicomposting Cooperative producing more or less 60 tons of pure vermicasts per month from their backyards. Vermicasts are brought to the buying center where the farmers sell them at PhP5.oo/kilogram. Almost every household in the municipality has become adoptors of the technology having vermibeds in their backyards. Vermiculture and vermicomposting provided additional income for the farmers. Llanera is now recipient of the Expanded Modi-fied Rapid Composting Technology of DA-BSWM for 500 hectares of riceland. The technology will utilize vermi-casts produced by the farmers as organic fertilizer input and vermitea as foliar fertilizer for rice production. This ensures the continuity and sustainability of the organic fertilizer production and the promotion of organic agricul-ture in the country. And it can now be told that Llanera, Nueva Ecija thru the energetic lady mayor, who is also a wife and a mother striving to achieve something great for her town started it all. They are now reaping the fruits of her labor with the continuous technical assistance from the DA-BSWM and DA-RFU III.

ORGANIC FERTILIZER PRODUCTION PROJECT: Llanera, Nueva Ecija Experience:

A Success Story

L lanera is an agricultural town in Nueva Ecija, 150 kilometers North of Manila. It is a fourth class and IRA-dependent municipality consisting of 9700 hectares of riceland scattered in the 22 barangays. The municipality covers an area of 114 square kilometers with a population of 33,000. There are two

cropping seasons in a year lasting four months each: one during the rainy months and the other during the hot and dry months. During summer, majority of the town’s farming families experience a phenomenon that the locals call “gawat” a time where there are no crops and households have very little if not zero cash to buy food and other needs for the fam-ily. Life has always been this way because rice farming is the main source of livelihood.

Mr. Navot, a technical expert from Israel and CLSU staff were guided by Mayor Vero during the visit to PICAT.

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By Ginalyn S. Rivera

and planting Hole-Based Cassava. This was done simultaneously with the Guided Tours routed to different sites and organic farms in Dumin-gag. “This activity will lead farmer-leaders, students and other farming lovers to switch back from the con-ventional to organic farming which is more environment friendly and sus-tainable method of farming,” Mayor Pacalioga said. He is indeed very grateful that Dumingag was chosen to be the venue of the Mindanao-wide organic farming activity. There are still 19 organiza-tions that signified their interests on the said organic farming network. MINSOFS was organized under the advocacy of the Asian Network for Sustainable Organic Farming Technology (ANSOFT), one of the two PAN-ASIA Projects of the Korean-based Asian Food and Agri-culture Cooperation Initiative (AFACI). This was conceived as a unified front to address various is-sues and challenges related to or-ganic farming technology, policy ad-vocacies and marketing concerns in Mindanao. In the Philippines, the ANSOFT Principal Investigator is Rodelio B. Carating of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM). By June this year, Philip-pines might host again the annual conference for AFACI with represen-tatives from 12-member country. Likewise, the next venue for the sec-ond Mindanao Organic Congress is yet to be finalized. For more an-n o u n c e m en t s , p l e a s e v i s i t

T here were at least 322 partici-pants that at-

tended the Mindanao Network for Sustainable Organic Farming Sys-tems (MINSOFS) First Mindanao Sustainable Organic Agriculture Congress and Agro Eco-Tourism Fair set in Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur. The event drew farmers, agriculturists, students, organic farm-ing lovers and other who are en-gaged in sustainable organic agricul-ture held last February 19 to 22, 2012. The theme of the activity was “Towards Building a Stronger Sustainable Organic Agriculture in Mindanao,” which aims to offer plat-forms and build bridges between organic agriculture practitioners in Mindanao, promote the interests of organic producers while emphasiz-ing sustainability and consumer wel-fare and essentially to provide a plat-form to raise public consciousness on the positive impacts of sustain-able agriculture practices. The said congress invited speakers from the Government and Non-Government Organizations (NGO’s) who promote organic farm-ing technologies. They were from Magsasaka at Siyantipiko para sa P a g - U n l a d n g A g r i k u l t u r a (MASIPAG), Organic Fertilizer Pro-duction Project (OFPP), Social En-hancing Restoring Values for Inte-gral Community Empowerment (SERVICE), Sibol ng Agham at Teknolohiya (SIBAT) and Southest Asia Regional Initiative for Commu-nity Empowerment (SEARICE). They were able to discuss organic pro-grams, organic governance and pol-icy, organic practices, participatory guaranteed system and community seed banking. To showcase different tech-niques in different technologies and innovation, the congress featured Experiential Based Demonstration on the making of Veggie Meat, Adlay Cultivation, making of different Bio-fertilizers, Pelletizer, Rice Breeding, producing Carbonazed Rice Hull,

MINSOFS First Mindanao Sustainable Organic Agriculture Congress and Agro Eco-Tourism

Fair Set in Dumingag

Pictures above show the actual making of Veggie Meat– a mixture of protein and also known as vegetable albumin serves as alternative to meat. This is part of the Experiential Based Demonstra-tion during the said Organic Congress.

Teacher and Students from JHCSC School exhibit the school’s organic agriculture products

This “Organic Eco-Furnitures” also complements the said agro eco-tourism fair.

Left picture: Guests and organizers of the event; Right picture: Crowd of the participating farmers, agricul-turists, students and other farm lovers.

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Soil Survey Suitability Classification and Land Use Updating Project of the Municipality of

Polompon, Leyte

Introduction

T he Soil Survey Suitability Classifica-tion and Landuse Updating Project of Palompon, Leyte was started last

January 9, 2012 and finally completed each field work activity last February 20, 2012 through the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) dated October 11, 2011 entered by and among the BSWM and LGUs of Palompon, Leyte. The final output and the turn over of the project is ex-pected by mid of June this year. Its objective was to generate a comprehensive soil data base that will facilitate the assessment of the productivity potential of utilized land and the possible for-mulation of recommended crops for every given type of soil. The soil suitability maps, relief model and other landuse data will serve as guide to various agricultural development and planning activities of the Municipality of Palompon.

Project Description The project was implemented as a joint undertak-ing of the BSWM and the Local Government Units (LGU’s) of Palompon, Leyte. The survey was carried out for a period of 4 ½ months; 1 ½ months field work activi-ties including the construction of 3-D Relief Model and three (3) months for laboratory analysis, evaluation, map preparation and report writing.

Project Management The project was financed by the Municipal Gov-ernment of Palompon with the BSWM as project imple-mentor. The fund was managed by the LGUs of Palom-pon, Leyte and the BSWM Project Management Team ensured the project outputs are met upon project comple-tion.

Team Composition 1. Salvador A. Fabula Overall Project Team Leader 2. Oscar F. Costelo Assistant Project Team Leader 3. Berna G. Pastor Team Member/ Soil Fertility Specialist 4. Noemi M. Pascual Team Member/ Soil Fertility Specialist 5. Engr. Henry Cacayan Team Leader (Climate/ Water Re-sources) 6. Irvin K. Samalca Team Leader (Landuse and Vegetation) 7. Joselito N. Bangawan Cartographer 8. Armando B. Arcamo SWAC/ Relief Model Specialist 9. Bonifacio Jogno, Jr. GIS/ Relief Model Specialist 10. Dino R. Velasquez Relief Model Specialist 11. Jose Pepito Espenili Relief Model Specialist 12. Clarita D. Bacatio Technical Supervisory Support (Soils 13. Felix N. Albano Technical Supervisory Suppor(Carto)

Activities The Multi-Disciplinary Team of the BSWM has completed its activities, as follows; 1. Courtesy call and orientation briefing to LGU officials. 2. Soil, land use and vegetation cover, climate and water resources surveys. 3. Collection of 135 soil profile samples. Description of 69 pit samples to define and separate soil mapping boundary by soil series. 4. Establishment and mapping of eight (8) soil series with

27 corresponding soil mapping units, namely; Bongliw, Bugko, Umingan, Batuan, Faraon, Bolinao, Palompom and Lugo Series. 5. Delineation and mapping of updated land use by Land-sat thru ground thruthing with the use of GPS. 6. Assessment of climate and water resources wherein seven (7) major and minor erosion rivers, two (2) water-falls, and 15 springs in the municipality were identified. 7. Soil survey with an area of 16, 586 hectares. 8. Completion and turn over of 3-D Relief Model with the


By Salvador A. Fabula

Teams’ Field Work Activities

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scale of 1:11, 000. 9. Pre-final delineation of maps (soil, slope, erosion, lan-duse, soil/land limitation maps). 10. Project report pre-final presentataion

Output

Project outputs include: 1. Soils, landuse and vegetation cover, slope, erosion,

flooding, soil fertility, land limitation map and suitabil-ity for various crops.

2. Proposed agri-development plan (six book-bound copies)

3. Soil Report 4. 3-D Relief Model Despite the short project duration, the Project Team was able to accomplish more than what is ex-pected. The municipality of Palompon will now be able to fully maximize their soil and water resources through the projects’ identification of appropriate crops for every soil type.

Through this undertaking, Mayor Ramon C. Oñate of Palompon, Leyte presented a letter of commen-dation to the BSWM and Project Staffs headed by Salva-dor A. Fabula expressing his thanks and gratitude for conducting the Soil Survey Suitability Classifcation and Land Use Updating Project of the Municipality.

NCIP (National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, PRRM (Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement), SI-BAT (Sibol ng Agham at Teknolohiya), FFF (Federation of Free Farmers), UPLB, UP Diliman-NIGS (National Institute of Geological Sciences), League of Provinces, Cities, Mu-nicipalities, Barangays.

Water Resources Sub-committee Chair: DA-BSWM Co-chair: DENR-National Water Resources Board(NWRB) Co-chair (CSO): Civil Society Counterpart Council for Sus-tainable Development (CSCCSD) Vice-chair: DILG Co-vice chair: NEDA-Infrastructure Staff Members: DA-Policy and Planning, DA- BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources), NIA (National Irrigation Administration), DENR-RBCO (River Basin Coordination Office), DENR- MBCO (Manila Bay Coordination Office), DENR –EMB-Water Quality Division, LLDA, DOST-PAGASA, DPWH-Bureau of Research and Standards, LWUA (Local Water Utilities Administration), DOH (Department of Health), NAST (National Academy of Sci-ence and Technology), DepEd (Department of Education), CCC, NCIP, PRRM, SIBAT, Tambuyog Development Cen-ter, HARIBON, CBCP (Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines), UP Diliman, UPLB, CLSU (Central Luzon State University), Manila Water, League of Provinces, Cit-ies, Municipalities and Barangays, Maynilad, NAWASA, Phil. Association of Water Districts, Cooperative Develop-ment Authority, MWSS. These two sub- committees have the following functions: a) discuss, draft and propose initial country posi-tions, especially on matters of technical and scientific na-ture, to be presented in the CoP/MoP of the 3 multi-lateral environmental agreements (MEAs), for approval of the CCMRD and adoption as official country positions; b) serve as primary inter-agency discussion and initial policy-drafting group on MEA issues for eventual approval and adoption at higher levels as official government positions; c) receive reports and feedback from Local Development Councils through the CCMRD and their respective field offices on MEA activities and projects for assessment; and provide technical and scientific support to the CCMRD on all issues concerning MEA country participation and imple-mentation.


sociation Trichoderma Laboratory. 4) Hands-on Training on the Production of Trichoderma

harzianum. Visit to the mine site and the rehabilitation are (rice production area using organic agriculture) of mined soil.In the orientation program, Mr. Armando Arcamo, Region 8 Soils and Water Area Coordinator (SWAC)provided a brief-ing on the Expanded Modified Rapid Composting (EMRC) Project. Ms. Mercedes Fernando, Focal Person for OFPP and EMRC Project mentioned in her speech that BSWM shall continue to support people who are committed to adopt technologies on organic based farming. In this connection, financial support was ceremonially awarded to Mac Arthur LGU for its 200 hectare beneficiaries of the Expanded MRC project.


Ms. Luzviminda T. Oropesa, Social Development Officer of the Leyte Ironsand Corporation (LIC), explained that Mac Arthur is now an environment-friendly agro-industry community with the mined out soil enhanced with organic compost and used in rice production. Director Antonio B. Gerundio, Regional Executive Director of DA-RFU 8 in his message announced that rice production in the two (2) hec-tares rehabilitated soil had a yield of 129 cavans in the first cropping. This is a big increase from the 50 cavans per hec-tare yield using traditional practice in the locality before the mining intervention. The cutting of ribbon and blessing of the Tricho-derma Laboratory launched out the laboratory, which was then used for training the following day. Ms. Aurora M. Ma-nalang of BSWM served as the Resource Person/Trainor for the said two-day Hands-On Training on Tricho Production and Rapid Composting of Wastes.

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T he Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) together with Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO-

UN) moved forward within the timetable as the last capability building entitled “Second Land Use System Workshop” under the “National Capability Building for Land Degradation Assess-ment and Climate Change Adaptation Project”, TCP/PHI/3302 took place last March 26 to 30, 2012 in MERALCO Develop-ment Center, Antipolo City.

The said workshop aims to present the 2000 and 2009 Land Use System (LUS) Map of the Philippines Version 1.0 based on the Global Land Cover Map and come up with assess-ment units; compare the 2000 and 2009 for LUS area and inten-sity trend; conduct DPSIR analysis based on World Overview of Conservation Approaches (WOCAT) for Mapping Land Degra-dation and Sustainable Land Management (WOCAT QM); and to come up with initial land degradation assessment and to collect best practices to combat soil erosion and land degrada-tion in the Philippines. The workshop started by a brief presentation of Mr. Dante Margate of BSWM on the Philippine Land Use System Maps (PLUS), a presentation of the initial 2000 and 2009 PLUS and was followed by “Evaluation Units for Land Degradation Assessment in the Philippines: The Forest, Grasslands, Shrubs, Agricultural and Open Water Mapping Units” delivered by Dr. Nathaniel Bantayan, the National Vegetation and Land Cover Specialist. “Land Degradation Hot Spots in the Philippines: Area Coverage Trend by Region” was also discussed by Dr. Rodrigo Badayos, National Agronomist and Soil Scientist and was fol-lowed by Mr. Miguel Guioguio, National Socio-Economist who talked about “Land Degradation Hot Spots in the Philippines: Land Use Intensity Trend by Region”. Similarly, Dr. Rajendra P. Shrestha, International Consultant on Sustainable Land Man-agement from Thailand delivered a lecture on “Monsoon Asia Land Overview: Land Use Change Determinants and Conse-quences on Land Quality, Water Resources and Food Security”. Moreover, Prof. Junhou Wang from LADA China dis-cussed the LADA Manual entitled “Introduction to Land Degra-dation Assessment and Methodologies and Steps to Land Deg-radation Assessment”. This guided the two (2) workshop groups in filling up the WOCAT QM Evaluation, wherein it refers to the following series of steps: Step 1 Data on Contributing Special-ists; Step 2: Selection of LUS Mapping Unit, Area Trend, Land Use Intensity Trend; and Step 3: Land Degradation Assessment per LUS Mapping Unit. Part of the workshop was the one day field tour at the Soil Conservation Guided Farms at San Roque, City of San

Jose Del Monte, Bulacan on March 28 wherein actual survey occurred using the WOCAT QM. The two (2) groups were di-vided into two (2) subgroups, the Ecosystem Services Group and the Livelihood Assessment Survey Group. The formers’ objective was to assess the soil, vegetation and biodiversity and water resource degradation while the latter surveyed and inter-viewed on the vulnerability context, livelihood assets, institu-tional context and livelihood strategies of the local informants. The output of the activity will represent the local degradation assessment in Luzon. Topics regarding “Collection, Selection and Manage-ment of Land Degradation Indicators” and the “Reporting Land Degradation Assessment in the Context of DPSIR” were shared by Prof. Guosheng Wang of LADA China. The priority regions for subjecting LUS Units to WO-CAT QM are Regions II, VII and XII. The Local Land Degrada-tion Assessment Workshop in Visayas and Mindanao are set tentatively by mid of July and September this year, respectively. This workshop was simultaneously done with the Asia Soil Conservation Network (ASOCON)-WOCAT that was being organized back-to-back with FAO LADA since the project uses WOCAT methodology to undertake land degradation assess-ment.

BSWM-FAO Holds Second Land Use System Workshop

(Above) Actual field visit of LADA and WOCAT participants at City of San Roque, Del Monte, Bulacan. (Below) Survey and interview of local informants

Participants of LADA and WOCAT-ASOCON pose during the Back-to-Back Workshop in Antipolo City .

By Ginalyn S. Rivera

LADA is a two (2)-year project funded by FAO-UN and executed by Department of Agriculture through BSWM project that aims to come up with a Philippine Land Use Sys-tem (PLUS), a benchmark data in establishing and imple-menting a comprehensive methodology for the assessment and mapping of land degradation, and intends to promote and assist the government to mitigate land degradation, de-sertification, deforestation and loss of biodiversity.

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By Karen Salandanan-Bautista

R ecognizing the need to review its structure and functions amidst changing natural and socio-political environment, the national

coordinators of the Asia Soil Conservation Network for the Hu-mid Tropics (ASOCON) held its 14th Network Consultative Board (NCB) meeting back to back with the Second Land Use Systems-LADA workshop in Antipolo City from March 26-28, 2012. This three-day event marked the collaborative efforts of the World Overview of Conservation Approaches and Technolo-gies (WOCAT), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Bu-reau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) and U.P. Los Baños (UPLB) to harmonize regional initiatives on sustainable soil and water resources conservation and management. The current ASOCON’s network structure consists of a Coordinating Unit (CU) which is based in Jakarta, Indonesia and national coordinating committees of member countries (China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam). Each country has a National Coordinator who serves as the ASOCON Focal Point in his/her country and re-sponsible for the implementation of ASOCON activities at the national level. National coordinators form the NCB which is considered as the steering committee and policy-making body of ASOCON. Organized in 1989 with the primary objective to en-hance information exchange, experts consultations, regional workshops and learning activities of those who are involved in the development and dissemination of soil and water resources conservation technologies to small-scale farmers, the ASOCON is now facing a new task of revitalize itself to respond better to the emerging challenge of climate change as it impacts land degradation, desertification and food insecurity as well as changes in leadership and funding constraints. In the recently concluded ASOCON’s 14th NCB meet-ing, member-countries signed a resolution to renew its commit-ment by reviewing and revising the Joint Memorandum of Un-derstanding including the network’s membership, structure and functions. They also agreed to expand their membership to in-clude countries not within the humid tropics zone of Asia such as but not limited to Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, India and Nepal. Further, to har-monize ASOCON and WOCAT initiatives within the region,

ASOCON members will utilize the standardized tools developed by WOCAT for the documentation, monitoring and evaluation of best sustainable land management practices. Inasmuch as the strength of a network lies on its Se-cretariat, ASOCON members also decided that the time came to transfer the CU from Jakarta, Indonesia to Manila, Philippines with the BSWM as the host agency. ASOCON National Coordi-nator Dr. Silvino Q. Tejada accepted this critical role with high hopes that the Philippines could be equally effective as Indone-sia in coordinating the programs and activities of the network. The transition stage sets in with the transfer of the management of ASOCON website from Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry to BSWM-ISRIS. In addition to the important decisions agreed upon dur-ing the 14th NCB meeting, the ASOCON members attended a joint session on Philippine LADA project updates focusing on the preparation of land use system map to increase their aware-ness on land degradation assessment in monsoon country like the Philippines. They also presented their respective country report on the status of land degradation, interventions made and success stories on soil and water conservation where other countries can take some lessons learned based on field experi-ences. Participants were also given the opportunity to learn SLM best practices when they visited the San Roque Guided Soil Conservation project in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.

BSWM,FAO,UPLBOrganizeWOCAT‐ASOCONWorkshop

Delegates of the WOCAT-ASOCON Workshop

T he Strengthening Coordination for Effective Environ-mental Management (StrEEM) Project will finally get its representation as its official logo is bound for

release after selecting two (2) entries from the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), represented by the Training and Information and D i s s e m i n a t i o n S e r v i c e s ( T I D S ) . The idea was conceptualized during the conduct of the STREEM Workshop on Information, Education and Communication Mate-rials (IEC) in Tagaytay City last March 14 to 16, 2012. During the work-shop participants from the agencies involved were encouraged to submit a logo that will depict identity of the said project. The winning logo is represented by three colors --- Green, Blue, and Red --- which correspond to the three Rio Conventions -- UN Conven-tion on Biological Diversity, UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, and UN Convention to Combat Desertification, respectively. The intertwined curves symbolize the link between the three conventions in addressing solutions to various environmental problems. Moreover, the three inner circles symbolize the people who share efforts in the imple-mentation of the conventions. On the other hand, the “konek3Rio” below

emphasizes their interconnection. The “konek3Rio” text was a separate entry from BSWM and was just integrated to the other logo entry for em-phasis. TIDS Chief Ms. Georgina Carmelle Siena explained further that: “The whole picture scenario shows a smiling face of a youth which por-trays a profound meaning in preparing the young generation in combating environmental problems”. In the Philippines, the implementation of Rio Conventions is being coordinated separately by the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB), Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) both of the Depart-ment of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); and Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM). The logo design was participated in by the abovementioned agencies where they able to gather 15 entries. The STREEM Project was conceived through the National Capacity Self Assessment Process (NCSA); a broad, consultative, and participatory process leading to the understanding of the capacity con-straints with regard to the implementation of the Rio Conventions.

STREEM Selects Logo By Ginalyn S. Rivera

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SOILSCAPE Editor-in-Chief: Aurora M. Manalang Associate Editor: Ginalyn S. Rivera Advisers: Rodelio B. Carating Asst. Dir. Wilfredo E. Cabezon Director Silvino Q. Tejada, CESO III

BUREAU OF SOILS AND WATER MANAGEMENT Soils Research Development Center Elliptical Road corner Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City

January‐March 2012, Vol. 3 No. 1

By Veronica Hernandez

BSWM Jumpstarts Massive Adoption of Vermicomposting

T he Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) is aggres-sively pushing for the wider adop-

tion of vermicomposting among farmers to support the vision of Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala that natural farming methods be made more avail-able to agriculture stakeholders. BSWM Executive Director Dr. Silvino Q. Te-jada said that Regional Vermicompost Congresses will be held in all regions of the country to consult farmers on the problems they encounter in adopting vermicomposting, and to come up with needed in-puts for another tie-up between beneficiaries and the BSWM. The congress will run until May 25, 2012. “What the BSWM envisions is that farmers and farmer associations will be able to produce their own vermicompost and achieve a high level of pro-duction so they can sell the organic fertilizer they produce to other farmers,” he added. Under its Organic Fertilizer Production Pro-ject (OFPP), the BSWM has established 2,722 com-posting facilities that included shredder, vermitea brewers, African Night Crawlers, vermibeds and the training for vermicomposting. In addition to strengthen and sustain the success of the OFPP,

Dir. Tejada said that the newest project of the Bu-reau, the Expanded Modified Rapid Composting (EMRC) is aligned with the OFPP as it would supply the needed organic fertilizers. To help implement the program and monitor its success, the BSWM is proposing that Federation of various programs’ beneficiaries be formed. Ex-pected to attend the vermicomposting congress are officials and technicians of the BSWM and Depart-ment of Agriculture, local government officials, and the targeted farmer-beneficiaries. Dir. Tejada said that while many farmers are into conventional farming methods, many are slowly realizing that using organic fertilizers from the vermi-compost has many benefits like rejuvenating the soil’s macro and micro nutrients providing plant growth hormones and enzymes as well as beneficial micro-organisms. Likewise, farmers who have shifted to using 100% vermicompost report getting harvests that are tastier and have longer shelf life. “Vermicomposting is a proven organic inter-vention used by millions of farmers worldwide. And it has been proven to be a very good source of or-ganic fertilizer in the past 100 years,” Tejada said.

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BSWM SOILSCAPE is the official soil and water resources … First... · 2013-11-12 · January‐March 2012, Vol. 3 No. 1 The Laboratory Services Division Your Partner To A Better