Research need
The project aims to develop knowledge, an information system and capacity to increase productivity, sustainability and resilience of key cropping systems through improved soil management and health in the Philippines. The project also aims to build the foundations for a National Soil Strategy that supports the government, farmers and other stakeholders to manage soil as a national asset for sustainable agricultural production.
In the Philippines, in 2021, agricultural industries contributed 9.6% of national GDP and 24.2% to the national employment. There has been rapid economic growth in the Philippines in the past decade however farmers remain among the poorest groups in the country. The Philippine Government recognises the critical importance of soil as a national asset and the risks that soil degradation poses to smallholder livelihoods, the national economy, food security, and environmental and human health.
The Government of the Philippines also has ambition to develop and implement a National Soil Strategy to address soil degradation, improve the sustainability of soil management and enhance agricultural productivity. Previous research demonstrated that there is very limited availability and accessibility of soil information and soil knowledge in the Philippines, and limited capacity to generate and disseminate information and knowledge. These factors will restrict the ability to develop and implement an effective National Soil Strategy.
The project will explore available soil and agronomic knowledge, information and capacity within the Philippines and consider the changes needed in agronomic management to improve both agricultural productivity and soil health. The project will explore modern efficient methods of providing and managing soil information that can effectively support changes in agricultural practice and will develop knowledge, capacity and partnerships that can inform the development of a National Soil Strategy. The project will also seek to understand and build capacity to promote inclusive utility of new technologies and information and adoption of sustainable soil management.
Rice, rubber and vegetable production systems will be the focus of the project, due to their significance in the Philippines and the existing soil constraints and nutrient management issues associated with the systems.
