The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region launched a PHP42-million Mobile Soils Laboratory on Tuesday to provide farmers with advanced soil diagnostics.

The 10-wheeler truck, funded by the Bureau of Soils and Water Management and maintained by DA-11, is equipped with state-of-the-art testing equipment.

“This is more than a technological innovation—it’s a legacy for future generations,” DA-11 regional technical director for Research and Regulations Zabdiel Zacarias said in an interview.

The mobile lab can perform chemical, physical and microbiological soil analyses, as well as water quality assessments.

“It brings science to the field,” Zacarias said, highlighting its role in making diagnostics more accessible.

DA-11 encouraged farmers, extension officers and local government units to coordinate with the Regional Soils Laboratory for sample collection, diagnostics and training. (PNA)