By Michelle Ducut
Ilocos Norte is collaborating with Griffith University in Australia on a five-year USD3.5 million project aimed at improving soil health and enhancing the productivity and sustainability of rice and garlic-based cropping systems in the Philippines. The initiative seeks to address key agricultural challenges through advanced soil health management practices.
According to Arnold Pascua, senior agriculturist for the provincial government, Ilocos Norte is one of the pilot provinces for the research trials, along with Tarlac, Bataan, and Agusan del Sur. Field trials in the province will be conducted in the municipalities of Pasuquin and San Nicolas.
“The field trials will last approximately two to three years, depending on the data gathered,” Pascua said. “The findings will benefit farmers by improving the agro-ecosystem and soil health in the region. Technologies developed from this research will also contribute to the national soil health program.”
The project is being implemented in partnership with the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research, the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development, Griffith University, and provincial agriculture offices. It includes capacity-building initiatives, the establishment of demonstration farms, and farmer surveys to ensure the research is comprehensive and impactful.
A soil information system will be developed to improve the resilience, productivity, and sustainability of key cropping systems. This system is intended to support farmers and stakeholders in managing soil resources effectively for sustainable agricultural production.
The project’s launch, initially scheduled for late 2024, has been postponed to early January 2025 due to recent typhoons affecting the region.
This initiative underscores the commitment of Ilocos Norte and its partners to advancing agricultural practices that enhance food security and promote environmental sustainability.