The provincial government of Agusan del Sur, in collaboration with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), formally opened the country’s first state-of-the-art soil laboratory in Prosperidad town on Tuesday.
The PHP550 million laboratory, spanning 1,687 square meters, is designed to handle a wide range of testing and research, capable of processing between 50 and 100 soil samples daily.
“More importantly, this facility will translate knowledge into real, measurable change for our farmers. To serve not just through science, but through solutions that are tangible, inclusive, and lasting,” Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. said during the inauguration, joined by Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Hae Kyung Yu and 2nd District Rep. Adolph Edward Plaza.
Cane said the laboratory was designed to serve farmers and empower the youth who will shape the future of agricultural science.
Ambassador Yu, in her message, noted that the laboratory is not only aligned with national standards but also meets Australian standards, with plans for international accreditation. She added that further collaborations will provide the laboratory’s scientists access to ACIAR’s best practices and expertise.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the groundbreaking of the laboratory during his visit to the province last February 16, 2025. (PNA)
