On February 21, 2025, the DA-BSWM National Soil and Water Resource Research and Development Center for the Hillyland Pedo-ecological Zone hosted an educational tour for students of Tanay National Science High School (TNSHS). Themed “AgriVentures: Cultivating Knowledge through Hands-On Exploration in Tanay,” the event aimed to expose Grade 8 students to the Center’s agricultural science technologies and programs.

The tour, led by Dr. Edith S.A. Delos Santos, Principal of TNSHS, emphasized the importance of experiential learning in agricultural subjects. This activity was attended by 42 students along with their faculty members.

Mr. Roosbelt P. Creencia, Senior Science Research (SRS) Specialist, welcomed the group on behalf of Agricultural Center Chief Mr. Joven P. Espineli. Dr. Christian James A. Sacramento, Head Teacher I, introduced the students to the Center’s staff. The tour began with a short lecture by SRS I Mariel Mae Alvis on the significance of soil as a critical resource for sustainable agriculture. To engage the students, SRS I Mr. Lowell Bernados facilitated a fun quiz that helped reinforce their learning.

The highlight of the tour was a visit to the center’s Vermicomposting Facility, where Mr. John Mark Carneo, Agriculturist I, demonstrated the vermicomposting process. Students learned about the vital role of African Night Crawlers in composting and viewed the vermicasts, which play a key role in enriching the soil.

This educational initiative aligns with the DA-Bureau of Soils and Water Management’s commitment to showcasing its programs and fostering greater awareness of sustainable soil and water management among the youth. Both students and faculty expressed gratitude for the insightful experience, with Dr. Delos Santos being hopeful for future collaborations.

(Mariel Mae A. Alvis, NSWRRDC HILLPEZ
Photographs by: Ruzzelle Jane H. Madriaga, NSWRRDC HILLPEZ)

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