Physical Properties of Soils in Selected Subdivisions in Tacloban City and Palo, Leyte

The study was conducted to analyzed and to determine the physical properties of soil such as texture, bulk density, water holding capacity, soil moisture content, pH, and organic matter content in selected subdivisions in Tacloban City and Palo, Leyte. Analysis of pH, texture, water holding capacity, and organic matter was at the Soil Research Testing and Plant Analysis Laboratory (SRTPAL) Department of Agronomy and Soil Science (DASS) VSU Baybay, Leyte. While the bulk density, soil moisture content was computed using the standard formula. To analyzed the result Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using the SPSS Program to determine whether soils from subdivisions categorized as waterlogged and mountainous, developed and developing subdivisions derived from their filling and parent materials were significant different. The results showed that soils from various categories from subdivisions had no significant effect on bulk density, water holding capacity, & soil moisture content. However, some properties such as soil pH were significant in the waterlogged and mountainous area. It is recommended that a further study be conducted to include all appropriate soil parameters and procedures such as liming for acid soils, cause of erosion, flooding, water drainage capacity, depth to water table and other significant soil quality parameters. Also recommend for in-depth study by the developers and engineers to ensure that the soil quality be suitable for housing and for the safety of the homeowners.