The Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) marked its continued participation in Day 3 of the Stakeholders’ Forum on Soil Testing Protocols and Information Systems, held alongside the World Soil Day 2025 celebration today, December 5, at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Sports Complex Covered Court in Patin-ay, Prosperidad.

Representing the institution were College President Dr. Joy C. Capistrano and Dr. Ferdinand A. Dumalagan, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Development and Extension Affairs, together with faculty researchers, laboratory experts, and student delegates. Their involvement reinforced the college’s ongoing work in soil science, diagnostic services, and research collaboration with local and international partners. ASSCAT’s presence throughout the forum highlighted its commitment to science-based decision-making and the continuous enhancement of soil testing capacities in the province.

Messages from national leaders were also presented during the program. In her Audio-Video Presentation, CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis underscored the role of higher education institutions in strengthening research and building community partnerships. “Soil health is a shared responsibility. CHED stands ready to support higher education institutions in scaling research initiatives like this, strengthening faculty capability, and forging more collaborations that benefit local communities,” she said.

Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, stressed the need for accountability and proper allocation of agricultural resources. “Pagtulungan natin sa national at local levels, tiyakin na ang suporta sa ating agriculture sector ay buo at hindi ninanakaw. Correct spending — hindi corrupt spending — para matugunan ang food security sa ating bansa,” he said.

The final day of the forum included continued technical exchanges led by international experts from Griffith University, local researchers, and provincial agencies. Discussions centered on soil testing protocols, nutrient assessment, and digital information systems, emphasizing the need to harmonize practices and strengthen data utilization in Agusan del Sur. A laboratory and technology demonstration tour also took place, where Senator Pangilinan viewed ongoing initiatives and emerging tools supporting soil diagnostics and agricultural development.

A significant part of the Day 3 program was the Signing of Commitment to Soil Health and Sustainable Agricultural Development, participated in by national and local officials, partner agencies, youth and farmer representatives, and the academic community. The signing formalized a shared pledge to support research-driven soil management, advance innovation, and work collectively to ensure long-term agricultural resilience in the province.

The closing of the three-day activity affirmed Agusan del Sur’s collective resolve to pursue stronger soil health initiatives rooted in scientific evidence and collaborative governance. As the global community marks World Soil Day 2025, ASSCAT joins its partners in reinforcing the importance of healthy soils in ensuring food security and supporting the province’s agricultural future.