BIBLIOGRAPHY BAYENG, ARIEL O. ...
BIBLIOGRAPHY
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013. Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of
Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet. Benguet State University, La Trinidad,
Benguet.
Adviser: Jovita M. Sim, MSc.
ABSTRACT
The study aimed to determine the farmer’s awareness about organic farming, determine if
organic farming is acceptable in the place, and identify the reasons why farmer don’t
practice organic and why they practice organic farming in the place.
Respondents of the study were 100 farmers from Daclan, Tublay, Benguet and
respondents were chosen randomly.
Out of the one hundred respondents twenty-four were willing to accept organic
farming. Six of these who were willing to accept were already practicing organic farming.
On the other hand, seventy-six of the respondents were not willing to accept it as their
method of farming. Sixty-seven (67) respondents were aware of organic farming and 33
respondents were not aware.
The reasons why respondents are willing to accept organic farming, were that
organic farming is good to the health of the farmers, health of the consumers, premium
price, less cost of farm inputs, manageable, and to bring back the proper fertility of the soil.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
The reasons of the respondents for not adopting organic farming were the
following; laborious, no market, low demand, low yield production, hard to manage and
no beginning income/ capital and too risky.
It is concluded that farmer’s preferred conventional farming rather than organic
farming even though most of the respondents were aware of organic farming. Their
decisions in accepting organic farming was affected by their long experienced in farming
as conventional farmer and other factors like low yield, no market and laborious. The
conducted seminars and trainings was not convincing for them to accept organic farming.
It is recommended that more seminars and trainings should be conducted in the
municipality of Tublay, Benguet, however the seminar should present facts or figures about
the good effect of organic to the health of farmers and consumers and other advantages of
organic farming. The organization should also assist the farmers in their farm in order for
them to be encouraged to convert in organic farming. The LGU through agriculture office
should exert more efforts in convincing the other farmer to accept organic farming by
providing assistance/support like providing seeds and organic fertilizers for them to start
organic farming. The municipal government should allot funds for the dissemination of
information about organic farming in order for the farmers to fully understand what organic
farming is. With the help of other organization like Benguet State University to
disseminate information about organic farming and also provide extra trainings for the
farmers in order to have progress in organic farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet.
Assistance/market linkage of organic farmers by the DA through the AMAD is also needed
to convince the farmers to accept organic farming in their place.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Organic farming was the first farming method that was used by our ancestors during
their time. During that time there were no chemically synthesized fertilizers, pesticides,
and other form of farm technologies that farmers are using today.
Organic farming, system of agriculture that uses environmentally sound techniques
for raising crops and livestock that is free from most synthetic pesticides, growth hormones,
and antibiotics. Organic farmers typically rely on pesticides and fertilizers derived from
plants, animal wastes, and minerals. They incorporate biological methods, such as the use
of one organism to suppress another, to help control pests. The methods used in organic
farming seek to increase soil fertility, balance insect populations, and reduce air, soil, and
water pollution (Hynes, 2007).
According to Deshmukh (2010), International Federation of Organic Agriculture
Movement (IFOAM) defines the goal of organic farming as a production system that
sustains the life of the soil, the ecosystem and the people. Organic agriculture combines
traditional innovation and since to benefit the shared environment and promote fair
relationship and good quality of life for all involved.
Hence, the development of organic farming was related not only to the materials
used for soil fertility and crop protection but also had a base of managing a farm system
with integration of soil, crops, animals, and society (Barker, 2010).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Organic farming helps to develop and return the nutrients and minerals of the soil
that was destroyed by the effects of chemicals that was used in the farm; this is supported
by Deshmukh (2010), who stated that organic farming cares for the soil than to the crop.
The key to successful farming, therefore, was to feed the soil not the plant
(Lawrence, et al. 2006).
In the Philippines, based on R.A 10068, the government has declared a policy to
promote, develop and implement organic practices in order to protect the health of the
farmers, consumers, and the general public.
The government has a strong support in organic farming, however this needs further
verification to the farmers if they also support and willing to adopt organic farming.
On other hand organic farming is playing a very important role in the society, and
also in the environment. It gives a lot of benefits not only to human being but also in the
environment including the animals, and other living organisms.
In the province of Benguet, according to Quintos (2011), stated in her article that
Crescencio Pacalso estimated below 10 % of the entire farming industry of Benguet is
under organic farming.
According to provincial Agriculturist Lolita Bentrez there are 142 registered
organic farmers in Benguet, 42 of which are in La Trinidad town which are members of La
Trinidad, Organic Practitioners Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LATOP-MPC), the rest are all
over other Municipalities of Benguet (Quintos, 2011).
In the municipality of Tublay, Benguet, there are few organic practitioner, other
farmers prefer conventional farming because of the mass production of farm products in
the market, compared to organic products. Some of the organic products are sold on the
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
conventional market simply because there are few organic retail outlets (Lawrence, et al.
2006).
Most of the farmers in Tublay are relying on commercial fertilizers, pesticides and
other forms of chemicals in order to enhance the quality and quantity of their farm products.
Because they are so focus on how they could gain money from their farm, not knowingly
they are slowly destroying the soil including them and the consumers.
Since organic farming has a good impact to the soil, environment, and to the people,
it is then important to determine if the farmers in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet are aware of
organic farming and if they are informed about these.
Statement of the Problem
This study on “Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in
Daclan, Tublay, Benguet” aimed to answer the following questions:
1. Is organic farming acceptable in the place?
2. Are the farmers aware of organic farming?
3. What are the reasons why they don’t practice organic farming and reasons for
adopting organic farming?
Objectives of the Study
The specific objectives of the study were:
1. To determine if the farmers are aware of organic farming;
2. To determine if organic farming is acceptable in the place; and,
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
3. To identify the reasons why farmers don’t practice organic or they practice
organic farming in the place.
Importance of the Study
The result of the study would serve as a reference material for students specially
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture for more extensive research on organic farming and
other related studies; the result would serve as basis for Benguet State University-
Cordillera Organic Agriculture Research and Development Center (BSU-COARDC) in
developing strategies and plans for the promotion of organic agriculture in the CAR region;
Furthermore, the result would be basis of other researchers in their studies and strategies
in improving organic products; and for technology generation on organic farming.
Scope and Limitation of the Study
The study was conducted in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet. The study focused on the
awareness and acceptability on organic farming.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Organic Farming vs. Conventional Agriculture
Organic farmingworks in harmony with nature rather than against it. This innovate
using techniques to achieve good crop yield without harming the natural environment or
the people who live and work in it (Infonet-biovision, 2012).
Conventional agriculturerefers to the standard, dominant farming approaches
promoted and researched by most government and agribusiness groups and practiced by
farmers and growers throughout the world. Usually conventional agriculture imposes no
restriction on management other than those required by law (Kritiansen, et al. 2006).
History of Organic Farming
According to Barker (2010), in 1920s and 1930s organic farming began promoting
the concept of management of farm as a living unit or whole system. In 1940, Lord
Northbourne an agronomist in England introduced the term “organic” in relation to farming
in his book entitled look to the land, and about 70 years ago in United States, Rodale
introduced the organic movement with publications that advocated for health through
farming organically. The organizations of the Rodale Institute in United States, the Soil
Association in United Kingdom, and the Soil Health in New Zealand were founded as
association devoted to study and promote organic farming. At about the same time similar
organizations arose in Germany and Japan. During the 1980s and later, the involvement of
government agencies in organic farming increased. In the early years, about 1940s to 1970,
the local operation of organic farming is between consumers and farmers or retailer only,
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
but because of the expansion of organic production and market in 1970s, consumers,
growers and marketers needed means of proving that the produce product as being
organically grown. Because of this phenomenon certification agency is formed. Because
of the different definition of the term “organic” among biologist, chemist and practitioner,
no universally accepted definition or identification of organic farming and gardening was
developed.
Why Organic Farming?
Continuous and non-judicious use of synthetic agriculture inputs such as chemical
fertilizers and pesticides have resulted in the deterioration of soil fertility as well as human
health (Deshmukh, 2010).
The general adverse effects of chemical farming are loss of soil fertility and
productivity, high cost of cultivation, development of pest resistance to chemical
pesticides, loss of beneficial organisms (soil microorganism), and lastly the loss of
beneficial parasites and predators (Deshmukh, 2010).
Why Farm Organically?
Organic farming provides long-term benefits to the people and the environment.
Organic farming aims to increase long-term soil fertility, control pests and diseases without
harming the environment, ensure that water stays clean and safe use resources which the
farmer already has, to lessen expenses to buy farm inputs, and also to provide nutritious
food for human and animals and high quality crops to sell at a good price (Infonet-
biovision, 2012).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Implication of Organic Farming
According to Deshmukh (2009), the implication of organic farming principles
outlined by the International Federation of Organic Movement plead for the maintenance
of eco-environment and avoidance of all these practices that spread any kind of pollution.
What Motivates Conversion to Organic Production?
Padel (2001), as cited by Lawrence, et al. (2006), summarizes these motives such
as, personal motives related to concern both for the health and safety of the farm family,
and wider social and ecological concerns such as, environmental protection and
development of rural communities; and farm related motives concerned with both the
health of soil and farm on the short and long-term financial well-being of the farm business.
The Foundational Values of Organic Agriculture
According to the BSU organic module (2009), there are many reasons for farmers
to convert to organic agriculture but these following are commonly mentioned.
Health. Organic practitioners argue that organic food is healthier than food
produced in modern conventional agriculture because of the following reasons such as;
reduce health hazards to farmers and consumers, more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
in organic food, and organic food maybe fresher if sold to local markets compared to
distant.
Environmental. Because of the following environmental ethics, such as clean air
and water it does not harm beneficial insects and animals, improves plant and animal
biodiversity, zero chemical impact from farming activity on land and water quality, and
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
soil management that increases the health of soil, many organic farmers engage in organic
farming.
Spiritual. Some of health and environmental values of people are founded on
spiritual or religious teaching such as; references in the Bible, traditional Cordilleran
spiritual values for the environment, and other religious teachings related to agriculture.
Economic. These following economic factors such as sustainability, lower input
cost, premium prices, and export possibilities, farmers engage in organic farming.
Life style. Organic farming is a way of life which people will often make a
conscious decision to change to as it is a healthier and satisfying alternative but due to
career change, semi- retirement, and strengthen business ethics, people often start organic
farms in later life.
The Status of Organic Agriculture in the Cordilleras
According on BSU organic module (2009), farmers in the cordilleras are on slowly
converting their farms to organic due to some resistance or hesitance to change such as,
conventional agriculture is being practice in the Cordillera, for many farmers converting
their farm to organic is too risky, and in terms of farm certification, the cost is high and has
expected to have low crop yields and low income during the transition phase. The local
and provincial government is also one of the resistance or hesitance because of their limited
support for change. There are also few complete training programs, and many programs
are too expensive for the farmers, Because of these problemsfarmers end-up trusting
chemicals to solve farming problems rather than their own knowledge and skills.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
The Status of Organic Agriculture Nationally
Based on BSU organic module (2009), the Philippine Organic Industry is in an
early stage of development however organic farming in the Philippines is rapidly
developing because less than 1% represents organic food production mainly in horticulture
and agronomy.
Government and Non-Government Organizations in the Cordilleras
There are many different actors in the local Organic Agriculture Industry including
the following such as, the Benguet State University (BSU), the Department of Agriculture
(DA), La Trinidad Organic Practitioners Multipurpose Cooperative (LaTOP-MPC),
Benguet Network of People’s Oriented Organization (Benguet Net), Cordillera Green
Network (CGN), and the Cordillera Organic Agriculture Development Council
Incorporated (COADCI).
Methods of Organic Farming
Natural pest and disease control. Pests and disease are part of nature. In the ideal
system there is a natural balance between predators and pests. If the system is balanced
then one population can become dominant because it is not being preyed upon by another.
The aim of natural control is to restore natural balance between pests and predators and to
keep pets and diseases down to an acceptable level. The aim is not to eradicate them
altogether (Infonet-biovision, 2012).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Chemical control. Pesticides does not solve the pest problem. In the past 50 years,
insecticide use has increased tenfold, while crops losses from pest damage have doubled
(Infonet-biovision, 2012).
In addition, Infonet-biovision (2012), emphasize three important reasons why
natural control is preferable to pesticide.
Safety for people. According to Infonet-biovision (2012), artificial pesticides
harmed the health of the people eating foods which still contain residues of pesticides that
were sprayed on crop. There is also effect to the people using chemical pesticides, because
some products is misused because the instruction were not written in the language spoken
by the person using them. This had led to many accidents, such as skin rashes, headaches
and even poisoning by the pesticides that they are using that result to death.
Cost. Using natural pests and diseases control is often cheaper than applying
chemical pesticides because natural methods do not involve buying materials from outside.
Products and materials which are already in the home and around the farm are often used
(Infonet-biovision, 2012).
Safety for the environment. According to Infonet-biovision (2012), there are
harmful effects of chemical pesticides on the environment such as, chemical pesticide can
kill useful insects which eat pests. Just one spray can upset the balance between pests and
the useful predators which eat them. Artificial chemicals can also stay in the environment
and in the bodies of animals causing problems for many years.Insects and pests can very
quickly, over a breeding cycle, become resistant to artificial products and are no longer
controlled. This means that increased amounts or stronger chemical are then needed
creating further economic, health and environmental problems.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Natural control. Base on Infonet-biovision (2012), that through careful planning
and using all the other techniques available it should be possible to avoid the needed for
any crop spraying. If the pest is still a problem, natural products can be used to manage
pests. Using natural product should be limited as much as possible and it is wise to check
with national and inter-national organic standards to see which are allowed or
recommended.
There are many ways in which the organic farmer can control pests and diseases
like growing healthy crops that suffer less damage from pests and diseases, choosing crops
with natural resistance to specific pests and diseases because local varieties are better at
resisting local pest and diseases than introduced varieties.Timely planting of crops to avoid
the period when a pest does most damage.Companion planting with other crops that pest
willavoid, such as onion or garlic.Trapping or picking pests from the crop and identifying
pest and disease correctly will also help the farmer control pests and diseases (Infonet-
biovision, 2012).
Cultural control. It is deliberate manipulation of the environment to make it less
favorable for pests by disrupting their reproductive cycle, eliminating their food or making
it more favorable for their natural economies (Deshmukh, 2010).
Cropping methods. We have three cropping methods. The first one is crop rotation
defined as growing the same crop in the same site year after year which reduces soil fertility
and can encourage or built up pests, diseases and weeds. It also means having times where
the fertility of the soil is being built up and times where crops are grown which removes
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
nutrients. Crops should be moved to a different area of land each year and not return to the
original site for several years. For vegetables, a three to four year rotation is recommended
as minimum (Infonet-biovision, 2012).
The second method is trap cropping which is the practice of attracting pests to small
planting of crops which are then destroyed (Deshmukh, 2010).
The last method is intercropping where two or more crops are grown together. Each
must have adequate space to maximize cooperation and minimize competition between the
crops. Inter row space is a potential place for weeds which can be put to better use by
intercropping (BSU organic module, 2009).
Weed control. According to Infonet-biovision (2012), the aim of weed control is
not necessarily to eliminate weed but to control because weeds do have some useful
purposes, like they can provide protection from erosion, food for animals and beneficial
insects and food for human use.
Green manure. Green manuring is the plowing under or soil incorporation of any
green manure crops while they are green soon after they flower. Green manure is forage or
leguminous crops that are grown for their leafy materials needed for soil conservation
(BSU organic module, 2009).
Composting. Base on Infonet-biovision (2012), compost is organic matter or plant
and animal residues which have been rotted down by the action of bacteria and other
organisms, over a period of time. Compost has many advantages over chemical fertilizers
such as; these provide nutrients for plants but do not improve soil structure.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Organic Certification in the Philippines
Certification is defined as a system by which the conformity of products, services,
practices, etc. to applicable standards is determined and confirmed.This confirmation can
be done either by the first party which is the supplier, the second party which is the
costumer, or the third party an independent body.
Certification is the procedure by which an independent third party gives written
assurance that a clearly identified production or processing system or methodically
assessed and conforms to specified requirements/ standards.
Certification is one way of ensuring that products claimed to be organic are actually
produced according to organic farming principles. It is way of protecting consumers,
producers, and traders against the use of misleading or deceptive labels. It is also a
marketing instrument enabling procedures to access markets for organic products and
obtains premium prices. It is also creates transparency as information in certified producing
organizations and their products is made public (Organic Certification of the Philippines,
2012).
Why is Certification Needed?
Organic certification was developed to benefit both producers of organic products
and its consumers. The process has the following benefits such as; to build trust between
consumers and producers, to improve and standardize the quality of organic products, to
protect producers from fraudulent products, and to create a “brand” for true product (BSU
organic module, 2009).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Economic Benefits for the Farmers
Organic certification provides economic benefits for the farmers. It provides brand
recognition and market security and allows expansion of market area where in the business
have the ability to sell as organic in markets that they are not personally known. It also
strengthens the organic industry by creating across the board standards and quality.It helps
to prevent dishonest labeling ad sale of non-organic products which can be harmful to the
industry through the sale of unsafe or poor quality products and potentially destroy
costumers trust. Organic certification also encourages organization of industry
stakeholders which increases ease of management and business dealings.International
certification allows producers to tap into lucrative overseas market (BSU organic module,
2009).
Consumers Benefits
According to BSU organic module, 2009, organic certification is used to inform
consumers of what they are buying. They can make decisions and be confident of what
health benefits, quality and safety of the product.
Certification standards not only ensure products free from synthetic chemicals but
also require environmental standards such as conservation and rehabilitation.
Consumers are able to contribute to environmental conservation by choosing to buy
products that support and utilize sustainable practices.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
It also increases farmers or consumers trust where in consumers can be confident
about the product they are buying and it is easily identifiable for them. This assists in
creating reducing risk in markets for organic producers.
Philippine Organic Agriculture Act of 2010
It is hereby declared the policy of the State to promote, propagate, develop further
and implement the practice of organic agriculture in the Philippines that will cumulatively
condition and enrich the fertility of the soil, increase farm productivity, reduce pollution
and destruction of the environment, prevent the depletion of natural resources, further
protect the health of farmers, consumers, and the general public, and save on imported farm
inputs. Towards this end, a comprehensive program for the promotion of community-based
organic agriculture systems which include, among others, farmer-produced purely organic
fertilizers such as compost, pesticides and other farm inputs, together with a nationwide
educational and promotional campaign for their use and processing as well as adoption of
organic agriculture system as a viable alternative shall be undertaken.
The State recognizes and supports the central role of the farmers, indigenous people
and other stakeholders at the grassroots in this program (Lawphil, 2012).
International Standards
Many regions of the country did not have locally accessible certifying agencies.
These differences created problems of lack of certification, lack of uniform standards,
unreasonable fees, and even fraud. To address these problems, the organic community
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
sought federal legislation to enact national standards for certification of organic farming
(Barker, 2010).
The International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM) has
produced a set of international standards, laid down by people from many countries. This
gives guidelines about what organic farming is and how it should be practiced on the farm
(Infonet-biovision, 2012).
In addition according to Infonet-biovision (2012), that the international standards
are also used to help countries set their own standards. To address the problems about
organic farming products produced, the organic standards authority gives symbol to the
farm which have followed the standards to certify and ensured that people know that the
product which they buy is organic.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
METHODOLOGY
Locale and Time of the Study
The study was conducted in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet, one of the 8 barangays of
the Municipality of Tublay, Benguet. Daclan is classified as a rural place where there are
conventional farmers and organic farmers that can help in the study.
The study was conducted from October 2012 to December 2012.
Respondents of the Study
A total of one hundred (100) farmer’s respondents were the source of information.
Respondents were chosen randomly.
Data Gathering Procedure
The data were gathered through personal interview with the use of interview
schedule.
Data Gathered
The data gathered were the acceptability and awareness of the farmer toward
organic farming adaptation, and the reasons why farmer practice organic farming and why
not practice.
Data Analysis
The data gathered were tabulated and analyzed using frequency analysis.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Socio-demographic Profile of the Respondents
Table 1 shows the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in terms of gender,
age, educational attainment, farm size, tenurial status, major source of income and other
source of income.
Gender. Majority (67%) of the respondents in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet were male.
This implies that most of the farmers were male.
Age. A more of the farmers were 51 years old and above (38%), sixteen percent
were less than 30 years old, fifteen percent were 46-50 years old, fourteen percent were
36-40 years old, twelve percent were 31-35 years old and only five percent were 41-45
years old. The result also implies that majority of the respondents were at their middle age
and senior citizen.
Educational attainment. Higher percentage of the respondents (40%) were high
school level, 33% were elementary level, there were 25% who mentioned that they were
in college level and 2% had finished a vocational course. This implies that the respondents
had attended formal education.
Farm size. Majority (69%) of the respondents has only less than 1 hectare farm, the
rest of the respondents has 1 to 2 hectares (30%) and only one respondent claimed to have
3-4 hectares farm in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet.
In addition, the result of the study shows that the respondents has only enough farm
to sustain their daily needs in life and also the needs of their farm.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Tenurial status. Result shows that there were 86 respondents who are full owner of
the land they were farming, while there were 14 respondents who are full owner and at the
same time renting a farm to cultivate. The result implies that some of the respondents
haveits owned farm but because they want to expand their farm they rented others farm for
them to increase their income.
Major source of income. The result shows that most of the respondents major
income is in gardening/ farming (86%). the respondents relay on gardening in order to
maintain or supply their daily needs in life. There were respondents who were not farming
but are suppliers of inputs to other farmers and these were their major source of income.
Other source of income. The result shows that the respondent has other source of
income such as; suppliers, labor, and livestock’s. Result implies that they also need other
source of income because the price of farm products in the market is unstable. For them to
have enough income to maintain the needs of their farm the farmers relay on suppliers help.
Some also of the respondents do labor in other farm to supplement their income. Livestock
production also helps them to increase their income and their livestock are sold in the
market or to their neighbors.
Table 1. Socio-demographic profile of the respondent
PROFILE
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Gender
Male
67
67
Female
33
33
TOTAL
100
100
Table 1. Continued…
PROFILE
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Age
Less than 30
16
16
31-35
12
12
36-40
14
14
41-45
5
5
46-50
15
15
51 and above
38
38
TOTAL
100
100
Educational attainment
Elementary level
33
33
High school level
40
40
College level
25
25
Vocational
2
2
TOTAL
100
100
Farm size
Less than 1 hectare
69
69
1-2 hectares
30
30
3-4 hectares
1
1
TOTAL
100
100
Tenurial status
Full owner
86
86
Full owner and rented
14
14
TOTAL
100
100
Major source of income
Garden
86
86
Suppliers of farm inputs
14
14
TOTAL
100
100
Other source of income
Suppliers
63
73.26
Labor
18
20.93
Livestocks
5
5.81
*Multiple Response
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Number of Organic and Conventional Farmers
One hundred farmers from Daclan, Tublay, Benguet served as respondents. Out of
the 100 farmers 94 were into conventional farming and 6 were into organic farming (Table
2).
Number of years in farming. Table 3 shows the number of years in conventional
farming and the number of years in organic farming of the respondents. The result of the
study shows that more of the respondents (30.85%) were 11-20years experience in farming,
24.47% were 1-10 years experienced, 23.40% were 21-30 years experienced, 17.02% were
31-40 years experienced, and there were only 3.19% who had experienced 41-50 years in
farming. From the 6 organic farmers 2 have less than 1 year experience in organic
production, 2 have 1-2 years of experience, and another 2 have 3-4 years experience in
organic farming.
In addition the result of the study explains that the respondents who claimed to be
organic farmer have less number of years experience in organic farming. This further show
that some of them are in the stage of converting their farm into organic, like the 2
respondents who were less than a year and 2 with 1-2 years experience in organic farming.
Table 2. Number of organic and conventional farmers
PARTICULAR
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Conventional
94
94
Organic
6
6
TOTAL
100
100
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Table 3. Numbers of years of farming of the respondents
CHARACTERISTICS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Number of years in Conventional Farming
1-10
23
24.47
11-20
29
30.85
21-30
22
23.40
31-40
16
17.02
41-50
3
3.19
51 and above
1
1.06
TOTAL
94
100
Number of years in Organic Farming
Less than 1 year
2
33.33
1-2 years
2
33.33
3-4 years
2
33.33
TOTAL
6
100
Awareness of Farmer in Organic Farming
Table 4 shows the awareness of the respondents in organic farming. Result shows
that majority (67%) of the respondents is aware of organic farming, and 33% of the
respondents are not aware of organic farming.
There were only 24% respondents who are willing to accept organic farming and
76% of the respondents are not willing to accept it (Table 6). The result also implies that
in terms of awareness majority of the respondents are aware about organic farming (Table
4), but when it comes to acceptability the farmers are hesitance in accepting organic
farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
In addition Table 5 shows the source of information of the respondents about
organic farming such us; t.v, radio, newspapers and books, seminars, relatives and also
trainings provided by organic organization in the municipality of Tublay, Benguet.
The farmers are aware because they participate in seminars as shown in Table 4.
Result shows that attending seminars gave the highest percentage (39.755%) that
contributes to the awareness of farmerabout organic farming. This means, seminars that
are provided by the different organization of organic farmers made the farmer aware about
organic farming. Through seminars they are also encouraged to convert their farm into
organic. Because of seminars farmers also learned that what they are doing in their farm
presently damages the environment and the health of the people surrounding them, and
also their health as a farmer are at risk because of the different chemicals that they are using
in their farm. These reasons strongly encourage some of the farmers to covert in organic
farming in order to reduce the risk of the chemicals. But despite of these seminars, only 6
were convinced to convert into organic as shown in table 3.
A greater percentage (31.25%) the respondents mentioned that source of
information was their relatives.
With the help of technology like radio and t.v the awareness of the farmer is also
increased where in it tends to create curiosity in their minds that push them to learn more
and to know more about organic farming.
Books and newspapers are also source of information that increases the level of
awareness of farmers. Trainings provided by some organization of organic farmers in the
municipality of Tublay, Benguet were their source of information on organic farming.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Despite of all these source of information on organic farming few (24) accept organic
farming.
Table 4. Awareness of respondents in organic farming
AWARENESS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Aware
67
67
Not aware
33
33
TOTAL
100
100
Table 5. Source information of the respondents
SOURCE
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
T.V.
2
2.985
Radio
24
35.821
Newspaper
4
5.970
Books
15
22.388
Seminars
63
94.030
Relatives
50
74.627
Trainings
2
2.985
*Multiple Response
Acceptability of Organic Farming
Table 6 shows that there were only twenty-four (24%) respondents including the 6
organic farmers are willing to accept organic farming while seventy-six (76%) of the
respondents are not willing to accept it as their way of farming.
The reason behind this result is because of the long experience of the farmer in
conventional farming, they prefer it rather than accepting a new method of farming like
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
organic farming. For them, accepting this kind of farming is too risky because they have to
rebuild again their farm and it is also time consuming.
Result implies that majority of the respondents are not willing to accept organic
farming because they prefer conventional farming.
Reasons for Adopting Organic Farming
Table 7 shows that from the 24 respondents including organic practitioners are
willing to accept organic farming because of the following reasons such as; health of
farmers (25.6%), health of consumers (26.5%), premium price (18.07%), less cost of farm
inputs (26.5%), manageable (1.3%) and health of the soil (1.3%).
Table 6. Acceptability of respondents to go into organic farming
ACCEPTABILITY
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Accept
24
24
Do not accept
76
76
TOTAL
100
100
Farmers are willing to adopt organic farming because of health relatedreasons.
Some of the farmers mentioned that they becoming ill and eventually they will become
weak in later life because of the chemicals that they are using in their farm, as learned from
organic farming seminars and trainings, they are more encourage to convert their farm into
organic. Another reason as also learned from seminars is the health of the consumers,
because of the long experienced of the farmer in chemical farming they notice the effect of
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
chemicals that they are using in their farm products, and they realized that they are not the
only one affected but also the health of their consumers are at risk.
Farmers also observe that all farm inputs are increasing in price, but when organic
farming is introduced to them, they realized that one of the benefits of organic farming is
that it will lessen the cost of the farm inputs, where in the farmer will be using the resources
available in their environment as their source of farm inputs, like grasses/ weeds to be
composted and other resources.
In terms of farm product price, farmers are willing to accept organic farming
because of the premium price where there is fix price for organic products compared to
conventional farm products where there is unstable price.
Some of the farmers are also senior citizen and their body can no longer work
compared when they are still young. Farmers wereencouraged to accept organic farming
because they believe organic farming is manageable and less farm works.
Because of these reasons, some of the farmers are willing to accept organic farming
in order also to bring back the proper fertility of the soil and to be able to produce farm
products that are safe and environmentally friendly.
Reasons for not Adopting Organic Farming
Table 8 also shows the reasons why respondents are not willing to accept organic
farming such as; laborious (7.17%), no market (18.75%), low demand (7.17%), low yield
production (3.57%), hard to manage (2.67%), no beginning income (1.78%) and too risky
(1.78%).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Some of the farmers are not willing to accept organic farming because it is
laborious. In converting their farm to organic farming is too laborious because they need
to produce their own farm inputs, and also their age as one factor that affect their decisions.
Some of the farmers are old and they can no longer work in their farm full time, and some
of them are also afraid to convert because they prefer conventional farming.
In terms of productions, farmers consider organic farming that has low yield and
low demand, because they do not see the progress of organic in their place. The numbers
also of organic farmer in their place are not increasing. As they observe organic farming
Table 7. Reasons of the respondents for adopting organic farming
REASONS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Health of farmers
22
26.5
Health of consumers
22
26.5
Premium Price
15
18.07
Less cost of Farm Inputs
22
26.5
Manageable
1
1.3
Soil Fertility
1
1.3
*Multiple Response
in their place, they found out that it is hard to manage, most especially the transition period
where in the farm undergoes into a strict rehabilitation to bring back the proper nutrients
of the soil and to remove the chemicals in the environment that will affect the plants.
In converting their farm, it needs time, effort and money to be able to start organic
farm, but some of the farmers problem is they do not have enough money or beginning
capital to convert their farm. This situation affects their decisions for not adopting because
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
if they convert their farm the source of their income will be affected and it can only leads
them to borrow money from their relatives or loan in the bank in order to sustain their daily
needs and the needs of their farm. They also consider that if they convert their farm, their
products will not be disposed because there are no enough market outlets for organic
product and also few selected buyers for the products.
Table 8. Reasons of the respondents for not adopting organic farming
REASONS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Low demand
8
10.526
Low yield of production
4
5.263
Laborious
72
94.737
Hard to manage
3
3.947
No market
21
27.632
No beginning income
2
2.632
Too risky
2
2.632
*Multiple Response
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study on the assessment on farmer’s acceptability of organic farming in Daclan,
Tublay, Benguet was conducted from October 2012 to December 2013.
Specifically, the study aimed to determine if organic farming is acceptable to the
place, to determine if the farmers are aware of organic farming, and to identify the reasons
why farmers don’t practice organic or they practice organic farming in the place.
Respondents of the study were 100 farmers from Daclan, Tublay, Benguet and
respondents were chosen randomly.
The data were gathered through personal interview with the use of interview
schedule and analyzed through frequency analysis.
There were six respondents who claimed that they were practicing organic farming
while the rest of the respondents are still in conventional farming.
But of the one hundred respondents twenty-four are willing to accept organic
farming, but out of this 24, six were already practicing organic farming, while seventy-six
of the respondents are not willing to accept it as their method of farming. In terms of
awareness majority of the respondents were aware of organic farming and only few who
were not aware. There were sixty-seven respondents who are aware of organic farming,
while there were only thirty-three respondents who claimed that they are not aware of
organic farming. The result implies that majority of the respondents were aware but in
terms of acceptability they are hesitant.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
The source of information of the respondents about organic farming comes from
t.v, radio, newspapers, books, seminars, relatives, and trainings provided by organic
organization in the municipality of Tublay, Benguet.
There were six reasons why respondents are willing to accept organic farming,
these are the health of the farmers, health of the consumers, premium price, less cost of
farm inputs, manageable, and to bring back the proper fertility of the soil.
The reason of the respondents for not adopting organic farming were the following;
laborious, no market, low demand, low yield production, hard to manage and no beginning
income/ capital and too risky.
Conclusions
From the following results, the following conclusions were derived;
1. Farmers prefer conventional farming rather than organic farming in Daclan,
Tublay, Benguet;
2. Majority of the respondents of the study were aware of organic farming but in
terms of acceptability few are willing to accept;
3. Their decisions in accepting organic farming are influenced by their long
experienced in farming as conventional farmers and other factor like low yield, no market
and laborious; and,
4. Factors that affect decisions of farmers in accepting organic farming are their
observation on the activities of organic practitioners in their place. The trainings and
seminars conducted were not convincing for them to accept organic.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Recommendations
Based on the above conclusions, the following are recommended:
1. The organization of organic farmers should conduct more seminars and
trainingsin the municipality of Tublay, Benguet, however, the seminars should present
facts or figures about the good effect of organic to the health of farmers and consumers and
other advantages of organic farming. The organization should also assist the farmers in
their farm in order for them to be encouraged to convert in organic;
2. The LGU through agriculture office should exert more efforts in convincing the
other farmer to accept organic farming by providing assistance/support like providing seeds
and organic fertilizers for them to start organic farming;
3. The municipal government should allot funds for the dissemination of
information about organic farming in order for the farmers to fully understand what organic
farming is;
4. The help of other organization like Benguet State University to disseminate
information about organic farming and also provide extra trainings for the farmers in order
to have progress in organic farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet; and,
5. Assistance/market linkage of organic farmers by the DA through the AMAD.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
LITERATURE CITED
BARKER, A.V. 2010. Science and Technology of Organic Farming, Taylor and Francis
Group, 6000 Brocken Sound Parkway, Nw, Suite 300, Boca Raton, Rd, P.p. 1-3.
BSU Organic Module (2009). BSU La Trinidad, Benguet, P.p. 6-8, 144-146.
DESHMUKH,S.N. 2010. Organic Farming: Principles, Prospects and Problems,
AGROBIOS (INDIA), Agro House,Chopasani Road, Jodphur 342002. P.p. 1-5, 15-
19, 73-81.
HYNES,
E.
2007.
Organic
Farming,
Retrieved
July
3,
2012
from
http://www.encarta.com/organicfarming.
INFONET-BIOVISION. 2012. Organic Farming, Retrieved July 15, 2012 from
http://www.infonet-biovision.org/res/res/files/488.OrgFarm.pdf.
KRISTIANSEN, P., A. TAJI, and J. REGANOLD. 2006. Organic Agriculture a Global
Perspective, CSIRO Publishing, PO Box 1139 (150 Oxford St.), Collingwood VIC
3066, Australia, P.p. 3-4.
LAWPHIL. 2012. Organic Agriculture Act of 2010, Retrieved July 20, 2012 from
http://www.lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2010/ra_10068_2010.html.
LAWRENCE, G., L. STEWART, and H. DARREN. 2006. Going Organic, Mobilizing
Networks for Environmentally Responsible Food Production, CAB International,
CABI Nosworthy, Wllingford, Oxfordshire, ox 108 DE, UK, P.p. 1-3, 71.
ORGANIC CERTIFICATION OF THE PHILIPPINES. 2012. Organic Certification in the
Philippines,
Retrieved
September
13,
2012
from
http://www.occpphils.org/certification.htm.
QUINTOS, S.L. 2011. No turning back for Benguet organic farming, Pacalso says,
Retrieved July 3, 2012 from http://www.cordilleravoive.com.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013. Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of
Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet. Benguet State University, La Trinidad,
Benguet.
Adviser: Jovita M. Sim, MSc.
ABSTRACT
The study aimed to determine the farmer’s awareness about organic farming, determine if
organic farming is acceptable in the place, and identify the reasons why farmer don’t
practice organic and why they practice organic farming in the place.
Respondents of the study were 100 farmers from Daclan, Tublay, Benguet and
respondents were chosen randomly.
Out of the one hundred respondents twenty-four were willing to accept organic
farming. Six of these who were willing to accept were already practicing organic farming.
On the other hand, seventy-six of the respondents were not willing to accept it as their
method of farming. Sixty-seven (67) respondents were aware of organic farming and 33
respondents were not aware.
The reasons why respondents are willing to accept organic farming, were that
organic farming is good to the health of the farmers, health of the consumers, premium
price, less cost of farm inputs, manageable, and to bring back the proper fertility of the soil.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
The reasons of the respondents for not adopting organic farming were the
following; laborious, no market, low demand, low yield production, hard to manage and
no beginning income/ capital and too risky.
It is concluded that farmer’s preferred conventional farming rather than organic
farming even though most of the respondents were aware of organic farming. Their
decisions in accepting organic farming was affected by their long experienced in farming
as conventional farmer and other factors like low yield, no market and laborious. The
conducted seminars and trainings was not convincing for them to accept organic farming.
It is recommended that more seminars and trainings should be conducted in the
municipality of Tublay, Benguet, however the seminar should present facts or figures about
the good effect of organic to the health of farmers and consumers and other advantages of
organic farming. The organization should also assist the farmers in their farm in order for
them to be encouraged to convert in organic farming. The LGU through agriculture office
should exert more efforts in convincing the other farmer to accept organic farming by
providing assistance/support like providing seeds and organic fertilizers for them to start
organic farming. The municipal government should allot funds for the dissemination of
information about organic farming in order for the farmers to fully understand what organic
farming is. With the help of other organization like Benguet State University to
disseminate information about organic farming and also provide extra trainings for the
farmers in order to have progress in organic farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet.
Assistance/market linkage of organic farmers by the DA through the AMAD is also needed
to convince the farmers to accept organic farming in their place.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Organic farming was the first farming method that was used by our ancestors during
their time. During that time there were no chemically synthesized fertilizers, pesticides,
and other form of farm technologies that farmers are using today.
Organic farming, system of agriculture that uses environmentally sound techniques
for raising crops and livestock that is free from most synthetic pesticides, growth hormones,
and antibiotics. Organic farmers typically rely on pesticides and fertilizers derived from
plants, animal wastes, and minerals. They incorporate biological methods, such as the use
of one organism to suppress another, to help control pests. The methods used in organic
farming seek to increase soil fertility, balance insect populations, and reduce air, soil, and
water pollution (Hynes, 2007).
According to Deshmukh (2010), International Federation of Organic Agriculture
Movement (IFOAM) defines the goal of organic farming as a production system that
sustains the life of the soil, the ecosystem and the people. Organic agriculture combines
traditional innovation and since to benefit the shared environment and promote fair
relationship and good quality of life for all involved.
Hence, the development of organic farming was related not only to the materials
used for soil fertility and crop protection but also had a base of managing a farm system
with integration of soil, crops, animals, and society (Barker, 2010).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Organic farming helps to develop and return the nutrients and minerals of the soil
that was destroyed by the effects of chemicals that was used in the farm; this is supported
by Deshmukh (2010), who stated that organic farming cares for the soil than to the crop.
The key to successful farming, therefore, was to feed the soil not the plant
(Lawrence, et al. 2006).
In the Philippines, based on R.A 10068, the government has declared a policy to
promote, develop and implement organic practices in order to protect the health of the
farmers, consumers, and the general public.
The government has a strong support in organic farming, however this needs further
verification to the farmers if they also support and willing to adopt organic farming.
On other hand organic farming is playing a very important role in the society, and
also in the environment. It gives a lot of benefits not only to human being but also in the
environment including the animals, and other living organisms.
In the province of Benguet, according to Quintos (2011), stated in her article that
Crescencio Pacalso estimated below 10 % of the entire farming industry of Benguet is
under organic farming.
According to provincial Agriculturist Lolita Bentrez there are 142 registered
organic farmers in Benguet, 42 of which are in La Trinidad town which are members of La
Trinidad, Organic Practitioners Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LATOP-MPC), the rest are all
over other Municipalities of Benguet (Quintos, 2011).
In the municipality of Tublay, Benguet, there are few organic practitioner, other
farmers prefer conventional farming because of the mass production of farm products in
the market, compared to organic products. Some of the organic products are sold on the
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
conventional market simply because there are few organic retail outlets (Lawrence, et al.
2006).
Most of the farmers in Tublay are relying on commercial fertilizers, pesticides and
other forms of chemicals in order to enhance the quality and quantity of their farm products.
Because they are so focus on how they could gain money from their farm, not knowingly
they are slowly destroying the soil including them and the consumers.
Since organic farming has a good impact to the soil, environment, and to the people,
it is then important to determine if the farmers in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet are aware of
organic farming and if they are informed about these.
Statement of the Problem
This study on “Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in
Daclan, Tublay, Benguet” aimed to answer the following questions:
1. Is organic farming acceptable in the place?
2. Are the farmers aware of organic farming?
3. What are the reasons why they don’t practice organic farming and reasons for
adopting organic farming?
Objectives of the Study
The specific objectives of the study were:
1. To determine if the farmers are aware of organic farming;
2. To determine if organic farming is acceptable in the place; and,
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
3. To identify the reasons why farmers don’t practice organic or they practice
organic farming in the place.
Importance of the Study
The result of the study would serve as a reference material for students specially
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture for more extensive research on organic farming and
other related studies; the result would serve as basis for Benguet State University-
Cordillera Organic Agriculture Research and Development Center (BSU-COARDC) in
developing strategies and plans for the promotion of organic agriculture in the CAR region;
Furthermore, the result would be basis of other researchers in their studies and strategies
in improving organic products; and for technology generation on organic farming.
Scope and Limitation of the Study
The study was conducted in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet. The study focused on the
awareness and acceptability on organic farming.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Organic Farming vs. Conventional Agriculture
Organic farmingworks in harmony with nature rather than against it. This innovate
using techniques to achieve good crop yield without harming the natural environment or
the people who live and work in it (Infonet-biovision, 2012).
Conventional agriculturerefers to the standard, dominant farming approaches
promoted and researched by most government and agribusiness groups and practiced by
farmers and growers throughout the world. Usually conventional agriculture imposes no
restriction on management other than those required by law (Kritiansen, et al. 2006).
History of Organic Farming
According to Barker (2010), in 1920s and 1930s organic farming began promoting
the concept of management of farm as a living unit or whole system. In 1940, Lord
Northbourne an agronomist in England introduced the term “organic” in relation to farming
in his book entitled look to the land, and about 70 years ago in United States, Rodale
introduced the organic movement with publications that advocated for health through
farming organically. The organizations of the Rodale Institute in United States, the Soil
Association in United Kingdom, and the Soil Health in New Zealand were founded as
association devoted to study and promote organic farming. At about the same time similar
organizations arose in Germany and Japan. During the 1980s and later, the involvement of
government agencies in organic farming increased. In the early years, about 1940s to 1970,
the local operation of organic farming is between consumers and farmers or retailer only,
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
but because of the expansion of organic production and market in 1970s, consumers,
growers and marketers needed means of proving that the produce product as being
organically grown. Because of this phenomenon certification agency is formed. Because
of the different definition of the term “organic” among biologist, chemist and practitioner,
no universally accepted definition or identification of organic farming and gardening was
developed.
Why Organic Farming?
Continuous and non-judicious use of synthetic agriculture inputs such as chemical
fertilizers and pesticides have resulted in the deterioration of soil fertility as well as human
health (Deshmukh, 2010).
The general adverse effects of chemical farming are loss of soil fertility and
productivity, high cost of cultivation, development of pest resistance to chemical
pesticides, loss of beneficial organisms (soil microorganism), and lastly the loss of
beneficial parasites and predators (Deshmukh, 2010).
Why Farm Organically?
Organic farming provides long-term benefits to the people and the environment.
Organic farming aims to increase long-term soil fertility, control pests and diseases without
harming the environment, ensure that water stays clean and safe use resources which the
farmer already has, to lessen expenses to buy farm inputs, and also to provide nutritious
food for human and animals and high quality crops to sell at a good price (Infonet-
biovision, 2012).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Implication of Organic Farming
According to Deshmukh (2009), the implication of organic farming principles
outlined by the International Federation of Organic Movement plead for the maintenance
of eco-environment and avoidance of all these practices that spread any kind of pollution.
What Motivates Conversion to Organic Production?
Padel (2001), as cited by Lawrence, et al. (2006), summarizes these motives such
as, personal motives related to concern both for the health and safety of the farm family,
and wider social and ecological concerns such as, environmental protection and
development of rural communities; and farm related motives concerned with both the
health of soil and farm on the short and long-term financial well-being of the farm business.
The Foundational Values of Organic Agriculture
According to the BSU organic module (2009), there are many reasons for farmers
to convert to organic agriculture but these following are commonly mentioned.
Health. Organic practitioners argue that organic food is healthier than food
produced in modern conventional agriculture because of the following reasons such as;
reduce health hazards to farmers and consumers, more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
in organic food, and organic food maybe fresher if sold to local markets compared to
distant.
Environmental. Because of the following environmental ethics, such as clean air
and water it does not harm beneficial insects and animals, improves plant and animal
biodiversity, zero chemical impact from farming activity on land and water quality, and
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
soil management that increases the health of soil, many organic farmers engage in organic
farming.
Spiritual. Some of health and environmental values of people are founded on
spiritual or religious teaching such as; references in the Bible, traditional Cordilleran
spiritual values for the environment, and other religious teachings related to agriculture.
Economic. These following economic factors such as sustainability, lower input
cost, premium prices, and export possibilities, farmers engage in organic farming.
Life style. Organic farming is a way of life which people will often make a
conscious decision to change to as it is a healthier and satisfying alternative but due to
career change, semi- retirement, and strengthen business ethics, people often start organic
farms in later life.
The Status of Organic Agriculture in the Cordilleras
According on BSU organic module (2009), farmers in the cordilleras are on slowly
converting their farms to organic due to some resistance or hesitance to change such as,
conventional agriculture is being practice in the Cordillera, for many farmers converting
their farm to organic is too risky, and in terms of farm certification, the cost is high and has
expected to have low crop yields and low income during the transition phase. The local
and provincial government is also one of the resistance or hesitance because of their limited
support for change. There are also few complete training programs, and many programs
are too expensive for the farmers, Because of these problemsfarmers end-up trusting
chemicals to solve farming problems rather than their own knowledge and skills.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
The Status of Organic Agriculture Nationally
Based on BSU organic module (2009), the Philippine Organic Industry is in an
early stage of development however organic farming in the Philippines is rapidly
developing because less than 1% represents organic food production mainly in horticulture
and agronomy.
Government and Non-Government Organizations in the Cordilleras
There are many different actors in the local Organic Agriculture Industry including
the following such as, the Benguet State University (BSU), the Department of Agriculture
(DA), La Trinidad Organic Practitioners Multipurpose Cooperative (LaTOP-MPC),
Benguet Network of People’s Oriented Organization (Benguet Net), Cordillera Green
Network (CGN), and the Cordillera Organic Agriculture Development Council
Incorporated (COADCI).
Methods of Organic Farming
Natural pest and disease control. Pests and disease are part of nature. In the ideal
system there is a natural balance between predators and pests. If the system is balanced
then one population can become dominant because it is not being preyed upon by another.
The aim of natural control is to restore natural balance between pests and predators and to
keep pets and diseases down to an acceptable level. The aim is not to eradicate them
altogether (Infonet-biovision, 2012).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Chemical control. Pesticides does not solve the pest problem. In the past 50 years,
insecticide use has increased tenfold, while crops losses from pest damage have doubled
(Infonet-biovision, 2012).
In addition, Infonet-biovision (2012), emphasize three important reasons why
natural control is preferable to pesticide.
Safety for people. According to Infonet-biovision (2012), artificial pesticides
harmed the health of the people eating foods which still contain residues of pesticides that
were sprayed on crop. There is also effect to the people using chemical pesticides, because
some products is misused because the instruction were not written in the language spoken
by the person using them. This had led to many accidents, such as skin rashes, headaches
and even poisoning by the pesticides that they are using that result to death.
Cost. Using natural pests and diseases control is often cheaper than applying
chemical pesticides because natural methods do not involve buying materials from outside.
Products and materials which are already in the home and around the farm are often used
(Infonet-biovision, 2012).
Safety for the environment. According to Infonet-biovision (2012), there are
harmful effects of chemical pesticides on the environment such as, chemical pesticide can
kill useful insects which eat pests. Just one spray can upset the balance between pests and
the useful predators which eat them. Artificial chemicals can also stay in the environment
and in the bodies of animals causing problems for many years.Insects and pests can very
quickly, over a breeding cycle, become resistant to artificial products and are no longer
controlled. This means that increased amounts or stronger chemical are then needed
creating further economic, health and environmental problems.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Natural control. Base on Infonet-biovision (2012), that through careful planning
and using all the other techniques available it should be possible to avoid the needed for
any crop spraying. If the pest is still a problem, natural products can be used to manage
pests. Using natural product should be limited as much as possible and it is wise to check
with national and inter-national organic standards to see which are allowed or
recommended.
There are many ways in which the organic farmer can control pests and diseases
like growing healthy crops that suffer less damage from pests and diseases, choosing crops
with natural resistance to specific pests and diseases because local varieties are better at
resisting local pest and diseases than introduced varieties.Timely planting of crops to avoid
the period when a pest does most damage.Companion planting with other crops that pest
willavoid, such as onion or garlic.Trapping or picking pests from the crop and identifying
pest and disease correctly will also help the farmer control pests and diseases (Infonet-
biovision, 2012).
Cultural control. It is deliberate manipulation of the environment to make it less
favorable for pests by disrupting their reproductive cycle, eliminating their food or making
it more favorable for their natural economies (Deshmukh, 2010).
Cropping methods. We have three cropping methods. The first one is crop rotation
defined as growing the same crop in the same site year after year which reduces soil fertility
and can encourage or built up pests, diseases and weeds. It also means having times where
the fertility of the soil is being built up and times where crops are grown which removes
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
nutrients. Crops should be moved to a different area of land each year and not return to the
original site for several years. For vegetables, a three to four year rotation is recommended
as minimum (Infonet-biovision, 2012).
The second method is trap cropping which is the practice of attracting pests to small
planting of crops which are then destroyed (Deshmukh, 2010).
The last method is intercropping where two or more crops are grown together. Each
must have adequate space to maximize cooperation and minimize competition between the
crops. Inter row space is a potential place for weeds which can be put to better use by
intercropping (BSU organic module, 2009).
Weed control. According to Infonet-biovision (2012), the aim of weed control is
not necessarily to eliminate weed but to control because weeds do have some useful
purposes, like they can provide protection from erosion, food for animals and beneficial
insects and food for human use.
Green manure. Green manuring is the plowing under or soil incorporation of any
green manure crops while they are green soon after they flower. Green manure is forage or
leguminous crops that are grown for their leafy materials needed for soil conservation
(BSU organic module, 2009).
Composting. Base on Infonet-biovision (2012), compost is organic matter or plant
and animal residues which have been rotted down by the action of bacteria and other
organisms, over a period of time. Compost has many advantages over chemical fertilizers
such as; these provide nutrients for plants but do not improve soil structure.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Organic Certification in the Philippines
Certification is defined as a system by which the conformity of products, services,
practices, etc. to applicable standards is determined and confirmed.This confirmation can
be done either by the first party which is the supplier, the second party which is the
costumer, or the third party an independent body.
Certification is the procedure by which an independent third party gives written
assurance that a clearly identified production or processing system or methodically
assessed and conforms to specified requirements/ standards.
Certification is one way of ensuring that products claimed to be organic are actually
produced according to organic farming principles. It is way of protecting consumers,
producers, and traders against the use of misleading or deceptive labels. It is also a
marketing instrument enabling procedures to access markets for organic products and
obtains premium prices. It is also creates transparency as information in certified producing
organizations and their products is made public (Organic Certification of the Philippines,
2012).
Why is Certification Needed?
Organic certification was developed to benefit both producers of organic products
and its consumers. The process has the following benefits such as; to build trust between
consumers and producers, to improve and standardize the quality of organic products, to
protect producers from fraudulent products, and to create a “brand” for true product (BSU
organic module, 2009).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Economic Benefits for the Farmers
Organic certification provides economic benefits for the farmers. It provides brand
recognition and market security and allows expansion of market area where in the business
have the ability to sell as organic in markets that they are not personally known. It also
strengthens the organic industry by creating across the board standards and quality.It helps
to prevent dishonest labeling ad sale of non-organic products which can be harmful to the
industry through the sale of unsafe or poor quality products and potentially destroy
costumers trust. Organic certification also encourages organization of industry
stakeholders which increases ease of management and business dealings.International
certification allows producers to tap into lucrative overseas market (BSU organic module,
2009).
Consumers Benefits
According to BSU organic module, 2009, organic certification is used to inform
consumers of what they are buying. They can make decisions and be confident of what
health benefits, quality and safety of the product.
Certification standards not only ensure products free from synthetic chemicals but
also require environmental standards such as conservation and rehabilitation.
Consumers are able to contribute to environmental conservation by choosing to buy
products that support and utilize sustainable practices.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
It also increases farmers or consumers trust where in consumers can be confident
about the product they are buying and it is easily identifiable for them. This assists in
creating reducing risk in markets for organic producers.
Philippine Organic Agriculture Act of 2010
It is hereby declared the policy of the State to promote, propagate, develop further
and implement the practice of organic agriculture in the Philippines that will cumulatively
condition and enrich the fertility of the soil, increase farm productivity, reduce pollution
and destruction of the environment, prevent the depletion of natural resources, further
protect the health of farmers, consumers, and the general public, and save on imported farm
inputs. Towards this end, a comprehensive program for the promotion of community-based
organic agriculture systems which include, among others, farmer-produced purely organic
fertilizers such as compost, pesticides and other farm inputs, together with a nationwide
educational and promotional campaign for their use and processing as well as adoption of
organic agriculture system as a viable alternative shall be undertaken.
The State recognizes and supports the central role of the farmers, indigenous people
and other stakeholders at the grassroots in this program (Lawphil, 2012).
International Standards
Many regions of the country did not have locally accessible certifying agencies.
These differences created problems of lack of certification, lack of uniform standards,
unreasonable fees, and even fraud. To address these problems, the organic community
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
sought federal legislation to enact national standards for certification of organic farming
(Barker, 2010).
The International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM) has
produced a set of international standards, laid down by people from many countries. This
gives guidelines about what organic farming is and how it should be practiced on the farm
(Infonet-biovision, 2012).
In addition according to Infonet-biovision (2012), that the international standards
are also used to help countries set their own standards. To address the problems about
organic farming products produced, the organic standards authority gives symbol to the
farm which have followed the standards to certify and ensured that people know that the
product which they buy is organic.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
METHODOLOGY
Locale and Time of the Study
The study was conducted in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet, one of the 8 barangays of
the Municipality of Tublay, Benguet. Daclan is classified as a rural place where there are
conventional farmers and organic farmers that can help in the study.
The study was conducted from October 2012 to December 2012.
Respondents of the Study
A total of one hundred (100) farmer’s respondents were the source of information.
Respondents were chosen randomly.
Data Gathering Procedure
The data were gathered through personal interview with the use of interview
schedule.
Data Gathered
The data gathered were the acceptability and awareness of the farmer toward
organic farming adaptation, and the reasons why farmer practice organic farming and why
not practice.
Data Analysis
The data gathered were tabulated and analyzed using frequency analysis.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Socio-demographic Profile of the Respondents
Table 1 shows the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in terms of gender,
age, educational attainment, farm size, tenurial status, major source of income and other
source of income.
Gender. Majority (67%) of the respondents in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet were male.
This implies that most of the farmers were male.
Age. A more of the farmers were 51 years old and above (38%), sixteen percent
were less than 30 years old, fifteen percent were 46-50 years old, fourteen percent were
36-40 years old, twelve percent were 31-35 years old and only five percent were 41-45
years old. The result also implies that majority of the respondents were at their middle age
and senior citizen.
Educational attainment. Higher percentage of the respondents (40%) were high
school level, 33% were elementary level, there were 25% who mentioned that they were
in college level and 2% had finished a vocational course. This implies that the respondents
had attended formal education.
Farm size. Majority (69%) of the respondents has only less than 1 hectare farm, the
rest of the respondents has 1 to 2 hectares (30%) and only one respondent claimed to have
3-4 hectares farm in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet.
In addition, the result of the study shows that the respondents has only enough farm
to sustain their daily needs in life and also the needs of their farm.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Tenurial status. Result shows that there were 86 respondents who are full owner of
the land they were farming, while there were 14 respondents who are full owner and at the
same time renting a farm to cultivate. The result implies that some of the respondents
haveits owned farm but because they want to expand their farm they rented others farm for
them to increase their income.
Major source of income. The result shows that most of the respondents major
income is in gardening/ farming (86%). the respondents relay on gardening in order to
maintain or supply their daily needs in life. There were respondents who were not farming
but are suppliers of inputs to other farmers and these were their major source of income.
Other source of income. The result shows that the respondent has other source of
income such as; suppliers, labor, and livestock’s. Result implies that they also need other
source of income because the price of farm products in the market is unstable. For them to
have enough income to maintain the needs of their farm the farmers relay on suppliers help.
Some also of the respondents do labor in other farm to supplement their income. Livestock
production also helps them to increase their income and their livestock are sold in the
market or to their neighbors.
Table 1. Socio-demographic profile of the respondent
PROFILE
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Gender
Male
67
67
Female
33
33
TOTAL
100
100
Table 1. Continued…
PROFILE
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Age
Less than 30
16
16
31-35
12
12
36-40
14
14
41-45
5
5
46-50
15
15
51 and above
38
38
TOTAL
100
100
Educational attainment
Elementary level
33
33
High school level
40
40
College level
25
25
Vocational
2
2
TOTAL
100
100
Farm size
Less than 1 hectare
69
69
1-2 hectares
30
30
3-4 hectares
1
1
TOTAL
100
100
Tenurial status
Full owner
86
86
Full owner and rented
14
14
TOTAL
100
100
Major source of income
Garden
86
86
Suppliers of farm inputs
14
14
TOTAL
100
100
Other source of income
Suppliers
63
73.26
Labor
18
20.93
Livestocks
5
5.81
*Multiple Response
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Number of Organic and Conventional Farmers
One hundred farmers from Daclan, Tublay, Benguet served as respondents. Out of
the 100 farmers 94 were into conventional farming and 6 were into organic farming (Table
2).
Number of years in farming. Table 3 shows the number of years in conventional
farming and the number of years in organic farming of the respondents. The result of the
study shows that more of the respondents (30.85%) were 11-20years experience in farming,
24.47% were 1-10 years experienced, 23.40% were 21-30 years experienced, 17.02% were
31-40 years experienced, and there were only 3.19% who had experienced 41-50 years in
farming. From the 6 organic farmers 2 have less than 1 year experience in organic
production, 2 have 1-2 years of experience, and another 2 have 3-4 years experience in
organic farming.
In addition the result of the study explains that the respondents who claimed to be
organic farmer have less number of years experience in organic farming. This further show
that some of them are in the stage of converting their farm into organic, like the 2
respondents who were less than a year and 2 with 1-2 years experience in organic farming.
Table 2. Number of organic and conventional farmers
PARTICULAR
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Conventional
94
94
Organic
6
6
TOTAL
100
100
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Table 3. Numbers of years of farming of the respondents
CHARACTERISTICS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Number of years in Conventional Farming
1-10
23
24.47
11-20
29
30.85
21-30
22
23.40
31-40
16
17.02
41-50
3
3.19
51 and above
1
1.06
TOTAL
94
100
Number of years in Organic Farming
Less than 1 year
2
33.33
1-2 years
2
33.33
3-4 years
2
33.33
TOTAL
6
100
Awareness of Farmer in Organic Farming
Table 4 shows the awareness of the respondents in organic farming. Result shows
that majority (67%) of the respondents is aware of organic farming, and 33% of the
respondents are not aware of organic farming.
There were only 24% respondents who are willing to accept organic farming and
76% of the respondents are not willing to accept it (Table 6). The result also implies that
in terms of awareness majority of the respondents are aware about organic farming (Table
4), but when it comes to acceptability the farmers are hesitance in accepting organic
farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
In addition Table 5 shows the source of information of the respondents about
organic farming such us; t.v, radio, newspapers and books, seminars, relatives and also
trainings provided by organic organization in the municipality of Tublay, Benguet.
The farmers are aware because they participate in seminars as shown in Table 4.
Result shows that attending seminars gave the highest percentage (39.755%) that
contributes to the awareness of farmerabout organic farming. This means, seminars that
are provided by the different organization of organic farmers made the farmer aware about
organic farming. Through seminars they are also encouraged to convert their farm into
organic. Because of seminars farmers also learned that what they are doing in their farm
presently damages the environment and the health of the people surrounding them, and
also their health as a farmer are at risk because of the different chemicals that they are using
in their farm. These reasons strongly encourage some of the farmers to covert in organic
farming in order to reduce the risk of the chemicals. But despite of these seminars, only 6
were convinced to convert into organic as shown in table 3.
A greater percentage (31.25%) the respondents mentioned that source of
information was their relatives.
With the help of technology like radio and t.v the awareness of the farmer is also
increased where in it tends to create curiosity in their minds that push them to learn more
and to know more about organic farming.
Books and newspapers are also source of information that increases the level of
awareness of farmers. Trainings provided by some organization of organic farmers in the
municipality of Tublay, Benguet were their source of information on organic farming.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Despite of all these source of information on organic farming few (24) accept organic
farming.
Table 4. Awareness of respondents in organic farming
AWARENESS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Aware
67
67
Not aware
33
33
TOTAL
100
100
Table 5. Source information of the respondents
SOURCE
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
T.V.
2
2.985
Radio
24
35.821
Newspaper
4
5.970
Books
15
22.388
Seminars
63
94.030
Relatives
50
74.627
Trainings
2
2.985
*Multiple Response
Acceptability of Organic Farming
Table 6 shows that there were only twenty-four (24%) respondents including the 6
organic farmers are willing to accept organic farming while seventy-six (76%) of the
respondents are not willing to accept it as their way of farming.
The reason behind this result is because of the long experience of the farmer in
conventional farming, they prefer it rather than accepting a new method of farming like
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
organic farming. For them, accepting this kind of farming is too risky because they have to
rebuild again their farm and it is also time consuming.
Result implies that majority of the respondents are not willing to accept organic
farming because they prefer conventional farming.
Reasons for Adopting Organic Farming
Table 7 shows that from the 24 respondents including organic practitioners are
willing to accept organic farming because of the following reasons such as; health of
farmers (25.6%), health of consumers (26.5%), premium price (18.07%), less cost of farm
inputs (26.5%), manageable (1.3%) and health of the soil (1.3%).
Table 6. Acceptability of respondents to go into organic farming
ACCEPTABILITY
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Accept
24
24
Do not accept
76
76
TOTAL
100
100
Farmers are willing to adopt organic farming because of health relatedreasons.
Some of the farmers mentioned that they becoming ill and eventually they will become
weak in later life because of the chemicals that they are using in their farm, as learned from
organic farming seminars and trainings, they are more encourage to convert their farm into
organic. Another reason as also learned from seminars is the health of the consumers,
because of the long experienced of the farmer in chemical farming they notice the effect of
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
chemicals that they are using in their farm products, and they realized that they are not the
only one affected but also the health of their consumers are at risk.
Farmers also observe that all farm inputs are increasing in price, but when organic
farming is introduced to them, they realized that one of the benefits of organic farming is
that it will lessen the cost of the farm inputs, where in the farmer will be using the resources
available in their environment as their source of farm inputs, like grasses/ weeds to be
composted and other resources.
In terms of farm product price, farmers are willing to accept organic farming
because of the premium price where there is fix price for organic products compared to
conventional farm products where there is unstable price.
Some of the farmers are also senior citizen and their body can no longer work
compared when they are still young. Farmers wereencouraged to accept organic farming
because they believe organic farming is manageable and less farm works.
Because of these reasons, some of the farmers are willing to accept organic farming
in order also to bring back the proper fertility of the soil and to be able to produce farm
products that are safe and environmentally friendly.
Reasons for not Adopting Organic Farming
Table 8 also shows the reasons why respondents are not willing to accept organic
farming such as; laborious (7.17%), no market (18.75%), low demand (7.17%), low yield
production (3.57%), hard to manage (2.67%), no beginning income (1.78%) and too risky
(1.78%).
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Some of the farmers are not willing to accept organic farming because it is
laborious. In converting their farm to organic farming is too laborious because they need
to produce their own farm inputs, and also their age as one factor that affect their decisions.
Some of the farmers are old and they can no longer work in their farm full time, and some
of them are also afraid to convert because they prefer conventional farming.
In terms of productions, farmers consider organic farming that has low yield and
low demand, because they do not see the progress of organic in their place. The numbers
also of organic farmer in their place are not increasing. As they observe organic farming
Table 7. Reasons of the respondents for adopting organic farming
REASONS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Health of farmers
22
26.5
Health of consumers
22
26.5
Premium Price
15
18.07
Less cost of Farm Inputs
22
26.5
Manageable
1
1.3
Soil Fertility
1
1.3
*Multiple Response
in their place, they found out that it is hard to manage, most especially the transition period
where in the farm undergoes into a strict rehabilitation to bring back the proper nutrients
of the soil and to remove the chemicals in the environment that will affect the plants.
In converting their farm, it needs time, effort and money to be able to start organic
farm, but some of the farmers problem is they do not have enough money or beginning
capital to convert their farm. This situation affects their decisions for not adopting because
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
if they convert their farm the source of their income will be affected and it can only leads
them to borrow money from their relatives or loan in the bank in order to sustain their daily
needs and the needs of their farm. They also consider that if they convert their farm, their
products will not be disposed because there are no enough market outlets for organic
product and also few selected buyers for the products.
Table 8. Reasons of the respondents for not adopting organic farming
REASONS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
Low demand
8
10.526
Low yield of production
4
5.263
Laborious
72
94.737
Hard to manage
3
3.947
No market
21
27.632
No beginning income
2
2.632
Too risky
2
2.632
*Multiple Response
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study on the assessment on farmer’s acceptability of organic farming in Daclan,
Tublay, Benguet was conducted from October 2012 to December 2013.
Specifically, the study aimed to determine if organic farming is acceptable to the
place, to determine if the farmers are aware of organic farming, and to identify the reasons
why farmers don’t practice organic or they practice organic farming in the place.
Respondents of the study were 100 farmers from Daclan, Tublay, Benguet and
respondents were chosen randomly.
The data were gathered through personal interview with the use of interview
schedule and analyzed through frequency analysis.
There were six respondents who claimed that they were practicing organic farming
while the rest of the respondents are still in conventional farming.
But of the one hundred respondents twenty-four are willing to accept organic
farming, but out of this 24, six were already practicing organic farming, while seventy-six
of the respondents are not willing to accept it as their method of farming. In terms of
awareness majority of the respondents were aware of organic farming and only few who
were not aware. There were sixty-seven respondents who are aware of organic farming,
while there were only thirty-three respondents who claimed that they are not aware of
organic farming. The result implies that majority of the respondents were aware but in
terms of acceptability they are hesitant.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
The source of information of the respondents about organic farming comes from
t.v, radio, newspapers, books, seminars, relatives, and trainings provided by organic
organization in the municipality of Tublay, Benguet.
There were six reasons why respondents are willing to accept organic farming,
these are the health of the farmers, health of the consumers, premium price, less cost of
farm inputs, manageable, and to bring back the proper fertility of the soil.
The reason of the respondents for not adopting organic farming were the following;
laborious, no market, low demand, low yield production, hard to manage and no beginning
income/ capital and too risky.
Conclusions
From the following results, the following conclusions were derived;
1. Farmers prefer conventional farming rather than organic farming in Daclan,
Tublay, Benguet;
2. Majority of the respondents of the study were aware of organic farming but in
terms of acceptability few are willing to accept;
3. Their decisions in accepting organic farming are influenced by their long
experienced in farming as conventional farmers and other factor like low yield, no market
and laborious; and,
4. Factors that affect decisions of farmers in accepting organic farming are their
observation on the activities of organic practitioners in their place. The trainings and
seminars conducted were not convincing for them to accept organic.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
Recommendations
Based on the above conclusions, the following are recommended:
1. The organization of organic farmers should conduct more seminars and
trainingsin the municipality of Tublay, Benguet, however, the seminars should present
facts or figures about the good effect of organic to the health of farmers and consumers and
other advantages of organic farming. The organization should also assist the farmers in
their farm in order for them to be encouraged to convert in organic;
2. The LGU through agriculture office should exert more efforts in convincing the
other farmer to accept organic farming by providing assistance/support like providing seeds
and organic fertilizers for them to start organic farming;
3. The municipal government should allot funds for the dissemination of
information about organic farming in order for the farmers to fully understand what organic
farming is;
4. The help of other organization like Benguet State University to disseminate
information about organic farming and also provide extra trainings for the farmers in order
to have progress in organic farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet; and,
5. Assistance/market linkage of organic farmers by the DA through the AMAD.
Assessment on Farmers Acceptability of Organic Farming in Daclan, Tublay, Benguet
BAYENG, ARIEL O. APRIL 2013
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DESHMUKH,S.N. 2010. Organic Farming: Principles, Prospects and Problems,
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