CUYO, PALAWAN – The DA – Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM), through its Soil Survey Division (SSD), conducted a Soil Resources Assessment and Suitability Evaluation in the Municipality of Cuyo, Palawan from May 4 to 23, 2026. This initiative aims to generate science-based information that will support sustainable agricultural development, land-use planning, and improved agricultural productivity in the municipality.

Implemented in partnership with the Municipal Local Government Unit (MLGU) of Cuyo, the activity was initiated by the local government under the leadership of Hon. Andrew L. Ong, Municipal Mayor, Mr. Bernabe Sabuya, Municipal Agriculturist, and the Sangguniang Bayan. The initiative aims to provide updated and reliable soil resource information that will serve as a basis for agricultural planning, soil suitability evaluation, fertilizer management, and other development interventions for the municipality’s agricultural sector.

During the field assessment, technical personnel from the Soil Survey Division conducted soil profile characterization, auger observations, soil morphological description, georeferencing of observation sites, and the collection of representative soil samples from existing and potential agricultural production areas.

The collected samples were subjected to laboratory analyses to determine their fertility status, productive potential, and key soil characteristics. The results will provide valuable information on nutrient availability, soil fertility constraints, and appropriate management interventions necessary to enhance agricultural productivity and promote the efficient use of farm inputs.

The assessment will also identify areas that are highly suitable, moderately suitable, marginally suitable, or not suitable for specific crop commodities based on soil properties and environmental conditions.

A major output of the project is the development of Geographic Information System (GIS)-based thematic maps, including Soil Map, Soil Fertility Map, Slope Map, and Soil Suitability Maps. These outputs will provide local planners, agricultural technicians, policymakers, and farmers with spatially explicit information to support agricultural investments, crop planning, and sustainable land-use management.

In addition, the project will support the formulation of site-specific fertilizer recommendations by identifying nutrient deficiencies and soil fertility limitations across agricultural areas. These recommendations are expected to improve fertilizer-use efficiency, enhance crop productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices.

Upon completion, the project will generate a comprehensive package of technical outputs, including thematic maps, soil fertility assessments, soil suitability evaluations, fertilizer recommendations, and a detailed technical report. These outputs will serve as valuable references for local government units, agricultural extension workers, researchers, and other stakeholders involved in agricultural and rural development.

The activity highlights the importance of collaboration between national and local government agencies in promoting evidence-based agricultural development. Through the integration of field surveys, laboratory analyses, and geospatial technologies, the project strengthens the scientific foundation for agricultural planning and resource management in Cuyo, Palawan.

DA-BSWM likewise expressed its appreciation to the Municipal Government of Cuyo for its initiative in requesting technical assistance and its active support throughout the implementation of the activity. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture, enhancing food security, and improving the livelihoods of farmers through science-based soil resource management. | via Dosary CJ Y. Dela Cruz, RAgr; Sandy B. Abiad, MMPA, RAgr, Soils Survey Division

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