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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Villar: Healthy soil needed for a resilient PH agricultural system

Villar: Healthy soil needed for a resilient PH agricultural system

Published Jun 23, 2023 07:16 am


Senator Cynthia A. Villar continues to push for the prioritization of healthy soil for a resilient agricultural systems and sustainable food production. Speaking during the 1st National Soil Health Summit at Diamond Hotel lsat June 21,  Villar noted that by maintaining the fertility of soil, agricultural productivity could be ensured.  "This will ensure an abundant and diverse food supply," according to Villar who is the chairperson of the Senate agriculture and food committee. "When we think about agriculture, food production, and the overall health of our ecosystems, it all traces back to the health of the soil beneath us," she explained. Villar emphasized that ‘’soil is the foundation upon which life thrives, providing a nurturing environment for plants, animals, and microorganisms alike.’’ She stressed that a healthy soil holds numerous benefits. such as sustaining productivity.  The lady lawmaker said that a healthy soil acts as a reservoir for essential nutrients, water, and organic matter that plants need to grow and flourish.  Furthermore, a healthy soil provides essential environmental services, she said. "Healthy soil acts as a natural filter, purifying and regulating the water that flows through it. It aids in flood prevention by improving water infiltration and retention, reducing erosion and runoff," she said. According to the Intergovernmental Technical Panel on Soils (ITPS), soil health  is “the ability of the soil to sustain the productivity, diversity, and environmental services of terrestrial ecosystems."  Villar pointed out that the country's soils are facing numerous challenges.  The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reported that 75 percent of total cropland is vulnerable to erosion of various degrees.  Soil degradation, unsustainable agricultural practices, deforestation, pollution, and climate change have all taken a toll on soil health, Villar said. "Because of this, it is imperative that we prioritize soil health and adopt sustainable practices that restore and preserve the vitality of our soils,’’ she stated.  "We must promote organic farming methods, reduce the use of harmful chemicals and fertilizers, and conduct soil assessment before utilizing the land for crop production,” she said.
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