BAGUIO CITY — As the cost of inorganic fertilizers continues to soar, the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera Administrative Region (DA-CAR) is banking on the production and integration of biofertilizers to help farmers sustain their production.
Besides restricting the supply of inorganic fertilizers, the Middle East war also threatens to push up the price of the input.
In a consultative meeting with state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the Cordillera on April 7, 2026, DA-CAR Executive Director Jennilyn Dawayan emphasized the agency's focus on identifying and adopting research outputs that can help reduce dependence on commercial fertilizers.
Vincent Savella of the DA-CAR Research Division said the meeting identified various technologies presented by participating SUCs for possible adoption, upscaling, and integration into the department's programs and projects.
Savella added that most of the identified technologies focused on fertilizers and soil amendments, including those applicable for strawberry and potato production. DA-CAR is also exploring existing partnerships under the High Value Crops Development Program (HVCDP) for planting materials.
One of the key areas of focus is the production of biofertilizers, which can supplement existing soil health programs. Dawayan said that the agency is working on the integration and production of biofertilizers in collaboration with Region 2 (Cagayan Valley).
"On our end, we are integrating efforts to produce these in collaboration with Region 2 and these serve as supplements to our existing soil health programs," she added.
Biofertilizers contain living organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, helping improve soil fertility and promote plant growth.
They are a more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, which can harm the environment and human health if used in excess or improperly.
Dawayen emphasized that the DA-CAR's focus on biofertilizers is part of its broader strategy to promote sustainable agriculture practices in the region.
“By adopting biofertilizers, farmers can reduce their reliance on commercial fertilizers, which have become increasingly expensive and unaffordable for many small-scale farmers,” she added.
The Regional Soils Laboratory also presented its soil mapping initiatives, which have become increasingly essential in improving farm productivity.
By identifying nutrient deficiencies and soil conditions across different farming areas, the DA-CAR Soil Laboratory enables farmers to shift from blanket fertilizer application to precision-based practices.
Dawayen also underscored that the adoption of biofertilizers is expected to benefit not only farmers but also the environment.
Chemical fertilizers have been linked to soil degradation, water pollution, and climate change, among other environmental problems.
“By using biofertilizers, farmers can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system,” she said.
This DA-CAR's initiative is also expected to create new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses.
“With the increasing demand for biofertilizers, there is a growing market for locally produced biofertilizers, which can create jobs and stimulate local economies,” Dawayen said.
Led by the DA-CAR Research Division, the meeting was attended by representatives from SUCs in the Cordillera, the DA-CAR Field Operations Division, and Integrated Laboratories Division.
