QUEZON CITY | September 21, 2026 — The growing need for more soil science professionals and stronger institutional support for soil-related education and research was among the concerns discussed in a dialogue held at the House of Representatives.

Agusan del Sur State University (ADSSU) President Dr. Joy C. Capistrano joined CHED Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis, CHED Commissioner Myrna Q. Mallari, Cong. Adolph Edward “Eddiebong” G. Plaza of the 2nd District of Agusan del Sur, DA-Policy, Planning, and Regulations Undersecretary Atty. Asis G. Perez, and DA–Bureau of Soils and Water Management Director Denise A. Solano in discussing possible areas of collaboration between higher education and the agriculture sector.

Among the areas raised were the strengthening of soil science programs, faculty development, research, laboratory facilities, and scholarship opportunities.

The discussion is timely for ADSSU, which recently added Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA) major in Soil Science to its agriculture program offerings. As the University develops the program, stronger linkages with CHED and DA-BSWM can help connect classroom learning with current needs in soil management, agricultural production, and soil health.

For Agusan del Sur, where agriculture remains an important part of local livelihoods, developing more professionals with specialized knowledge in soils can contribute to better-informed agricultural practices and research that respond to local conditions.

Dr. Capistrano also presented updates on ADSSU’s continuing development in agriculture, research, innovation, and partnerships.

The dialogue brings ADSSU’s work in soil science into a wider conversation on how universities, government agencies, and the agriculture sector can work together to develop the people and knowledge needed to support sustainable agriculture