BIBLIOGRAPHY AMKING, LEA M....
BIBLIOGRAPHY
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013. Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga
and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet. Benguet State University, La Trinidad Benguet.
Adviser: Constantino T. Sudaypan Sr., Ph.D.
ABSTRACT
The chicken dung trade may have ill-effects but it economically contributed to the
development of the municipality of Tublay. This resulted from the study that assessed the
legacy of the chicken dung trade in the municipality.
Conducted in barangays Ambassador and Caponga, Tublay where chicken dung
trading centers are established, the study involved 120 key informants: Local Government
Units, 6; chicken dung facilities, 34; chicken dung porters, 40; and residents nearby chicken
dung trades, 40. Actual site visits and conduct of interview among key informants were
undertaken in December 2012.
As to the findings of the study, the chicken dung trade in Tublay started in 2002 by
virtue of Municipal Ordinance Number 2002-05. Approved in October 28, 2002, the
ordinance regulated storing, selling, displaying and dealing of chicken dung within the
territorial jurisdiction of Tublay. In 2008, the Sangguniang Bayan of Tublay passed
Municipal Ordinance Number 2008-03, amending the earlier ordinance. One major
amendment is on the endorsement of the Sangguniang Barangay on the proposed chicken
dung business wherein it shall be supported by documentary evidences showing and
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
proving that public consultation of a series of public consultation had been conducted in
the sitio where the chicken dung business be established. Moreover, the ordinance also
demands that regulatory fee shall be remitted to the general fund of the municipality, except
a portion of the share of the barangay which shall be treated as a Special Fund to be used
for the proper supervision and regulation of the business of selling chicken dung in the
concerned barangay. In other words, fifty centavos (PhP0.50) of the total regulatory fee
imposed on every sack of chicken dung sold shall be shared and given to the barangay
where the chicken dung business is established. Eventually, 30% thereof shall be treated
as special fund and shall be utilized in the proper regulation and supervision of the business
chicken dung while 70% shall be remitted to the general fund of the concerned barangay.
Presence of the chicken dung trade gave additional income to the municipality.
Such additional income was accordingly instrumental in paying the services of casual
and/or contractual employees. Moreover, income derived from the chicken dung trade in
the barangay was used to fund the construction of barangay roads, purchase of utility truck,
purchase of appliances and cooking facilities for the Daycare center, and feeding program.
Another worth-mentioning contribution of the presence of chicken dung business in the
community is the employment opportunity it gave to some residents. Accordingly, there
are residents who were hired as porters in the chicken dung facilities in the barangay.
The chicken dung trade provided financial support that helped the traders and/or
porters cater the basic needs of their families. It also provided the necessary financial
support to cater to the educational requirement of their children.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Employment opportunities were at stake among the residents. Accordingly, most
of the porters are local residents. Besides, the chicken dung traders are also paying
considerable rent to the owner of the lot where the particular business is established.
As to its contribution to the municipality and/or barangay, the chicken dung trade
provided additional revenue in the form of taxes. The presence of the chicken dung trade
in the community was instrumental in increasing the sales of nearby sari-sari stores. Aside
from the purchases made by the traders/porters from their stores, farmers and drivers also
buy from nearby stores every time they stop to purchase sacks of chicken dung.
On the ill-effects of the presence of chicken dung trade in the community in a
descending order of gravity, are as follows: the chicken dung facility is a nuisance to the
community; the obnoxious smell/odor of the chicken dung irritates residents and by
passers; the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken dung causes headaches, chest pains and other
illnesses; and the chicken dung attracts pests and rodents.
As to the recommendations, the ordinance relative to chicken dung should also
include safety nets for the residents near the chicken dung trade like situating the trading
centers in secluded areas where no resident will be affected. Nevertheless, the area should
be well accessible to the consumers. Moreover, possibilities of using part of the taxes
collected from the chicken dung trade should be used to safeguard the residents in the
community where the trades exist. Lastly, the chicken dung traders, in coordination with
concerned agencies, should conduct researches on how they can eradicate, if not minimize
its ill-effects to the community and/or environment.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This section presents the findings of the study on legacy of the chicken dung trade
in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet. Specifically, it reflects the demographic
profile of the respondents as to gender, civil status, age bracket and highest educational
attainment. It also includes the history of the chicken dung trade in Tublay, Benguet; the
benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade on the development of the
barangay/municipality; and ill-effects of the presence of the chicken dung in the
municipality as perceived by the respondents.
Demographic Profile of Respondents
Table 1 presents the demographic profile of the respondents as to gender, civil
status, age bracket, and highest educational attainment. There is only one female among
the Local Government Unit key informants. Two of the respondents are single. All the six
respondents are degree holders. Almost all of the chicken dung operators are males.
Nevertheless, the findings do not infer that the chicken dung trade is solely for males.
According to the respondents, it is actually a family business but it so happen that the males
are more frequently present in the area.
Moreover, all the chicken dung porters are males. According to the respondents, being a
porter needs masculine characteristics since they have to carry the sacks of chicken dung,
which is more or less 50 kilograms, from one truck to the other.
As to the gender of the residents nearby the chicken dung business centers, more
than 19% are males. It does not mean, however, that residents in the area are dominated
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Table 1. Demographic Profile of the respondents
LOCAL
CHICKEN
CHICKEN
GOVERNMENT
DUNG
DUNG
UNITS
OPERATORS
PORTERS
RESIDENTS
PROFILE
n=6
%
n=34
%
n=40
%
n=40
%
A. Gender
Male
5
4.17
32
26.67
40
33.33
23
19.17
Female
1
0.83
2
1.67
0
0.00
17
14.17
Total
6
5.00
34
28.34
40
33.33
40
33.33
B. Civil Status
Single
2
1.67
2
1.67
19
15.83
4
3.33
Married
4
3.33
32
26.67
21
17.5
36
30
Total
6
5.00
28.34
40
33.33
40
33.33
C. C. Age Bracket
15 and below
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0.00
16-20
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
3
2.5
21-25
1
0.83
2
1.67
13
10.83
1
0.83
26-30
1
0.83
0
0.00
14
11.67
3
2.5
31-35
1
0.83
4
3.33
5
4.17
3
2.5
36-40
1
0.83
5
4.17
6
5
5
4.17
41-45
1
0.83
10
8.33
0
0.00
11
9.17
46-50
0
0.00
6
5
0
0.00
8
6.67
51-55
1
0.83
6
5
0
0.00
2
1.67
56-60
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
More than 60yrs
0
0.00
1
0.83
0
0.00
2
1.67
Total
6
5
34
28.33
40
28.34
40
33.35
D. Educational Attainment
No schooling
0
0.00
2
1.67
2
1.67
1
0.83
Elementary
undergraduate
0
0.00
15
12.5
6
5
3
2.5
High school
undergraduate
0
0.00
4
3.33
20
16.67
21
17.50
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Table 1 Continued. . .
LOCAL
CHICKEN
CHICKEN
GOVERNMENT
DUNG
DUNG
UNITS
OPERATORS
PORTERS
RESIDENTS
PROFILE
n=6
%
n=34
%
n=40
%
n=40
%
High school
graduate
0
0.00
11
9.17
7
5.83
6
5
College
undergraduate
0
0.00
1
0.83
3
2.50
6
5
College graduate
6
5.00
3
2.5
1
0.83
1
0.83
Vocational course
(TESDA)
0
0.00
0
0.00
1
0.83
1
0.83
Total
6
5
34
28.33
40
33.33 33.32 33.32
by males. It may have been incidental that the male members of the family were those left
in the household during the conduct of interview. On the civil status of the respondents,
almost all of the chicken dung operators were married. Furthermore, majority of the porters
were married. Besides, a great majority of the residents were married.
As to the operators, the ages of the greatest number of respondents range from 41-
45 years old. Only one respondent revealed to have been more than 60 years old. The
greatest number of porter respondents has ages ranging from 26-30 years old. On the other
hand, nearly 10% of the residents have ages ranging from 41-45 years old.
The table also shows that there were three respondents, who were not able to attend
formal schooling; two of whom are porters, and one resident. According to these
respondents, they were faced with grave poverty and such prohibited them from availing
even the primary grades.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
History of Chicken Dung Trade in Tublay
As revealed by the LGU key informants, the chicken dung trade in Tublay started
in 2002 by virtue of Municipal Ordinance Number 2002-05. Approved in October 28,
2002, the ordinance regulated storing, selling, displaying and dealing of chicken dung
within the territorial jurisdiction of Tublay. Furthermore, it also imposed penal sanctions
for violations of the provisions, and imposed regulatory fees. The ordinance was
accordingly premised by the 1994 decision of the Regional Trial Court ordering the
immediate ban on selling and storing chicken dung in Densi, Tomay, and Shilan in the
municipality of La Trinidad.
The foregoing revelation corroborates the statements of Sumalag (2010), that in
1992, the Municipal Officials of La Trinidad filed a case with the regional trial court for
the abatement of nuisance with prayer for the issuance of preliminary injunction against 20
individuals engaged in chicken dung business in Densi, Tomay, and Shilan. Eventually,
the RTC in 1994 ordered the immediate ban on selling and storing dung in the said three
areas.
In 2008, the Sangguniang Bayan of Tublay passed Municipal Ordinance Number
2008-03, amending the earlier ordinance. One major amendment is on the endorsement of
the Sangguniang Barangay on the proposed chicken dung business wherein it shall be
supported by documentary evidences showing and proving that public consultation of a
series of public consultation had been conducted in the sitio where the chicken dung
business be established. Furthermore, it should also provide a proof that prior informed
consent of the majority of the affected community members of the sitio is favorably
obtained.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
It is also worth mentioning that the amendment has provisions on petitions against
the establishment of a chicken dung business in a particular area. According to the
respondents, Section 2 of Municipal Ordinance Number 2008-03 states that petitions
against or opposing the establishment of such chicken dung business, the same shall be
resolved in accordance with corresponding provisions of the ordinance.
Moreover, the ordinance also demands that regulatory fee shall be remitted to the
general fund of the municipality, except a portion of the share of the barangay which shall
be treated as a Special Fund to be used for the proper supervision and regulation of the
business of selling chicken dung in the concerned barangay. In other words, fifty centavos
(PhP0.50) of the total regulatory fee imposed on every sack of chicken dung sold shall be
shared and given to barangay where the chicken dung business is established. Eventually,
30% thereof shall be treated as special fund and shall be utilized in the proper regulation
and supervision of the business chicken dung while 70% shall be remitted to the general
fund of the concerned barangay.
Benefits Brought About by the
Chicken Dung Trade
As shown in Table 2, the Local Government Unit key informants revealed that
presence of the chicken dung trade in the municipality gave additional income to the
municipality. According to the Municipal Local Government Unit respondents, the
additional income collected is directed to the general fund of the municipality. Such
additional income was accordingly instrumental in paying the following services:
Administrative and Legislative Services which includes personal services of employees;
Maintenance and Other Operating Expense such as construction of roads and canals;
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Table 2. Benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as claimed by Local Government
Units (N=120)
LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT
TUBLAY
AMBASSADOR CAPONGA
BENEFIT
MLGU
BLGU
BLGU
n=2
%
n=2
%
n=2
%
Provision of additional income
2
1.67
2
1.67
2
1.67
Support to infrastructure projects
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
Support to social enhancement
programs
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
Provision of funds to purchase
vehicles
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
Provision of funds for local
employment
1
0.83
2
1.67
2
1.67
Note: Multiple responses
Environmental and Natural Resources such as construction of water works system, clean
and green, maintenance and improvement of barangay nursery and tree planting;
Agriculture and Aquaculture which include opening of farm-to-market road, tram line,
livelihood programs, fisheries. Other program areas like Education, Health, Social Welfare
and Development, and Public safety are covered by the general fund of the municipality.
According to the key informants, almost 20% of the total general fund is generated from
the Chicken dung trade.
The findings support the article of Laking (2011) that Tublay is enjoying the
benefits derived from hosting the chicken dung trade. Since its transfer to the municipality
of Tublay, it has been able to provide the municipality additional revenue.
The Caponga Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU), on the other hand, stated
that the income derived from the chicken dung trade in the barangay was used to fund the
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
construction of barangay roads (Figure 2). According to the respondents, the BLGU was
also able to purchase a barangay truck (Figure 3) which was very useful in hauling garbage
from the barangay. Moreover, barangay Caponga purchased an LPG burner (with LPG
tank) and a Digital Video Disk player which were donated to the Daycare Center. It also
gave supplemental funds for the center’s feeding program. Another worth-mentioning
contribution of the presence of chicken dung business in the community is the employment
opportunity it gave to some residents. Accordingly, there are residents who were hired as
porters in the chicken dung business centers in the barangay (Figure 4).
The Ambassador barangay Local Government key informants stated that the
chicken dung trade also brought additional income to the barangay. The additional income
collected formed part of the general fund of the barangay. At the same time, the chicken
dung business employed some residents from Ambassador.
Figure 2. Barangay road in kapungan, Tublay funded by taxes from the chicken dung trade
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Figure 3. Delivery truck purchased by barangay Caponga funded by taxes derived from
the chicken dung trade
Figure 4. Most of the porters working in the chicken dung center are also from the locality
Table 3 shows the benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade to the lives of
the traders and porters. The greatest number of traders and porters revealed that the chicken
dung trade provided then financial support that helped them cater the basic needs their
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
families. The respondents further explained that because of their involvement in the
chicken dung trade, they were able to have money for food, shelter and clothing.
One trader explained that he buys chicken dung from a poultry farm in Pampanga
once or twice a week depending on the disposal of the product. Accordingly, he invests
PhP50-60,000 per truck. One truck loads 500-600 sacks containing different types of
chicken dung.
The key informant further revealed that chicken dung is classified as layers, or
harvest, depending on its source. Layers and aircons are accordingly bought at-source at
PhP50-60 and sold to farmers at PhP100-110. Harvests, on the other hand, are bought at
PhP20-30 and passed to consumers at PhP80-90. The amount depends on the selling
seasons.
Moreover, the cost of chicken dung increases during rainy season and decreases on
summer. Figure 5 shows a truckload of chicken dung displayed at the trading center in
Tublay Benguet.
Table 3. Benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as claimed by traders and porters
(N=120)
NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS
BENEFIT
TRADER
PORTER
n=34
100.00 n=40 100.00
Provision of financial support to cater basic needs
(food, shelter, and clothing) of family
30
25.00
33
22.5
Provision of financial support to cater educational
needs of children
3
2.50
2
1.67
Provision of savings for other household needs
4
3.33
9
7.50
Note: Multiple responses
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Figure 5. Truckload of chicken dung containing 600 sacks displayed at the chicken dung
trading center in Tublay, Benguet.
There were some respondents who claimed to have saved some amount for future
household needs. Only few trader and/or porter respondents accepted that the chicken dung
trade provided the necessary financial support to cater to the educational requirement of
their children. Findings of the study affirms the report of Laking (2011) in the Baguio
Midland Courier that the town of Tublay is enjoying the benefits derived from hosting the
chicken dung trade, notably in barangays Caponga and Ambassador. He further mentioned
that since the transfer of the trade to the town in July 2010, it was able to provide the
municipality additional revenue totaling to more or less one million pesos from August
2010 to January 2011.
Table 4 reflects the benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as claimed by nearby
community residents. As shown in the table, the greatest number of respondents revealed
that the trade provided employment opportunities among the residents. Accordingly, most
of the porters are local residents. Besides, the chicken dung traders are also paying
considerable rent to the owner of the lot where the particular business is established.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
As to its contribution to the municipality and/or barangay, the respondents revealed that it
provided additional revenue in the form of taxes. They affirmed the previous discussion
that from the PhP1.50 charge per sack of chicken dung sold in a particular trade center,
PhP1.00 foes to the municipal coffer and the remaining PhP0.50 to the barangay. There
were four respondents who claimed that presence of the chicken dung trade in the
community was instrumental in increasing the sales of their sari-sari store. They further
explained that aside from the purchases made by the traders/porters from their stores,
farmers and drivers also buy from their store every time they drop to purchase sacks of
chicken dung.
Conversely, there were some respondents who claimed that the chicken dung trade
has no benefits to the community. Accordingly, it only benefitted few and selected
individuals who were involved in the business.
Table 4. Benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as claimed by residents (N=120)
NUMBER OF
BENEFIT
PERCENT
RESPONDENTS
(%)
(n=40)
Provision of employment opportunities in the
community
16
13.33
Provision of additional income to the barangay and
municipality
14
11.67
Increased sales of nearby business establishments
4
3.33
None
13
10.83
Note: Multiple responses
Ill-Effects of the Chicken Dung Trade
Table 5 shows the perceived ill-effects of chicken dung according to the four groups
of respondents. Of the six Local Government Unit respondents, three admitted that the
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
chicken dung facility is a nuisance to the community; and the obnoxious smell/odor of the
chicken dung irritates residents and by passers. As to being a nuisance in the community,
there are instances when the huge trucks hauling chicken dung arrive in various hours of
the night which disturbs nearby residents. Such is worsened by the loud voices of the
porters. At least two LGU respondents claimed that the chicken dung facility attracts pests
and/or rodents.
As to the traders, they obviously perceived that the chicken dung trade has no ill-
effects to the community. Only one respondent, however, stated that the trade is sometimes
a nuisance to the community.
Of the 40 porters, only few cited that the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken dung is
very irritating. However, they have to bear with it since it is their only source of livelihood.
Furthermore, with their very long exposure to the odor, they accordingly got use to it. One
respondent claimed that the chicken dung facility is considered nuisance to the community.
Accordingly, the nearby residents are often disturbed with the arrival of the carrier trucks
much more during the night. The loud voices of the porters also add to the noise.
Besides, at least one respondent stated that presence of chicken dung in the area
attracts pests and rodents. Being a resident of the area, he accordingly observed that upon
the establishment of the facility in the area, appearances of rats were doubled if not tripled.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Table 5. Ill-effects of the chicken dung trade in the community as claimed by groups of
respondents (N=120)
RESPONDENTS
ILL-EFFECTS
LGUs
TRADERS
PORTERS RESIDENTS
n
%
n
%
n
%
n
%
The chicken dung facility is
considered nuisance to the
community
3
2.50
1
0.83
1
0.83
26
21.67
The obnoxious smell/odor of
chicken
dung
is
very
irritating
3
2.50
0
0.00
3
2.50
26
21.67
Presence of chicken dung in
the area attracts pests and/or
rodents
2
1.68
0
0.00
1
0.83
2
1.67
The obnoxious smell of
chicken
dung
causes
headaches, chest pains, and
other illnesses
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0.00
10
8.33
None
0
0.00
33
27.50
35
29.17
2
1.67
Note: Multiple responses
Nearby residents considered the chicken dung facility as nuisance to the
community. They are accordingly disturbed by the delivery trucks upon their arrival at
night. According to the respondents, the roaring engines of the delivery trucks and very
loud voices of porters curtail their sleep. Furthermore, there were instances when the
porters are inconsiderate during their drinking spree.
The same number of respondents revealed that the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken
dung is very irritating. This is accordingly experienced in the morning and afternoon when
it’s quite windy in the area. From these respondents, at least ten claimed that the obnoxious
smell causes headaches, chest pains and other illnesses. Others accordingly lose their
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
appetite. Besides, there were two respondents who added that presence of the chicken dung
trade in the area attracts pests and rodents.
Findings of the study relates to the sentiments of Barangay Shilan residents in 2009
as cited by Jose (2010) wherein they demanded the removal of the chicken dung trade in
the area for it caused headaches, dizziness, nausea and other respiratory discomfort among
them. Furthermore, it accordingly brought them sleepless nights as the foul sharp odor of
the chicken dung hangs in the cold air at night.
However, at least two respondents claimed that the presence of the chicken dung
trade has no ill-effects to the community.
Plan Relative to Chicken Dung Trade
According to the Local Government Units, they will instruct their concerned offices to
regularly and appropriately monitor the chicken dung businesses in the municipality. This
is accordingly with the premise that there are some chicken dung traders who are not
complying with the policies much more with Sections 5, 6, and 7 of Municipal Ordinance
Number 200-05. Moreover, they plan to be stricter in the collection of regulatory fees.
On the part of the chicken dung traders, they will accordingly continue the business as the
municipality will allow and for as long as there will be farmers who will buy chicken dung.
According to the respondents, they have gone through the business for so many years and
it has well entertained their economic needs.
Similarly, most of the porters stated that they will stay in the chicken dung business for as
long as the owner needs their services. However, there are few who revealed their intent of
moving to other jobs with higher remuneration. There was one respondent who accepted
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
that he is irritated with the bad smell of chicken dung he is tolerating it just to earn for his
family.
Basically, the residents were against the establishment of chicken dung trading centers in
the community. Nevertheless, they cannot do anything since it has been allowed by the
Local Government Units. Relatively, they plan to regularly remind the municipal as well
as barangay Local Government Units to look for more appropriate area for the chicken
dung trade.
On the other hand, there are respondents who tried accepting the existence of the
chicken dung trade in their community. According to them, they will just allow the
existence of the chicken dung trade as long as they will find ways of abating the obnoxious
smell of the chicken dung; and as long as the facility will not be a threat to the peace and
order of the community.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study documented the legacy of the chicken dung trade in Caponga and
ambassador in the municipality of Tublay. Specifically, it determined how the chicken
dung trade started; determined the benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as
perceived by the group of respondents; characterized how the benefits derived from the
chicken dung trade contributed to the development of Tublay; and identified the ill-effects
of the chicken dung trade as claimed by the four groups of respondents.
Conducted in two barangays of Tublay where chicken dung traders exist, the key
informants include Municipal and Barangay Local Government Units (6), traders (34),
porters (40), and nearby residents (40). Data gathering with the use of interview guide
started in December 2012.
As to the findings of the study, there is only one female among the Local
Government Unit key informants. Two of the respondents are single. All the six
respondents are degree holders.
Almost all of the chicken dung operators are males. Moreover, all the chicken dung
porters are males. According to the respondents, being a porter needs masculine
characteristics since they have to carry the sacks of chicken dung, which is more or less 50
kilograms, from one truck to the other. As to the gender of the residents nearby the chicken
dung business centers, more than 60% are males.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
On the civil status of the respondents, almost all of the chicken dung operators are
married. Furthermore, majority of the porters are married. Besides, a great majority of the
residents are married.
None among the respondents is below 16 years old. As to the operators, the ages of
the greatest number of respondents range from 41-45 years old. Only one respondent
revealed to have been more than 60 years old. The greatest number of porter respondents
has ages ranging from 26-30 years old. On the other hand, more than 40% of the residents
have ages ranging from 41-45 years old.
Three respondents were not able to attend formal schooling; two of whom are
porters, and one resident. According to these respondents, they were faced with grave
poverty and such prohibited them from availing even the primary grades.
The chicken dung trade in Tublay started in 2002 by virtue of Municipal Ordinance
Number 2002-05. Approved in October 28, 2002, the ordinance regulated storing, selling,
displaying and dealing of chicken dung within the territorial jurisdiction of Tublay.
Furthermore, it also imposed penal sanctions for violations of the provisions, and imposed
regulatory fees. The ordinance was accordingly premised by the 1994 decision of the
Regional Trial Court ordering the immediate ban on selling and storing chicken dung in
Densi, Tomay, and Shilan in the municipality of La Trinidad.
In 2008, the Sangguniang Bayan of Tublay passed Municipal Ordinance Number
2008-03, amending the earlier ordinance. One major amendment is on the endorsement of
the Sangguniang Barangay on the proposed chicken dung business wherein it shall be
supported by documentary evidences showing and proving that public consultation of a
series of public consultation had been conducted in the sitio where the chicken dung
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
business be established. Furthermore, it should also provide a proof that prior informed
consent of the majority of the affected community members of the sitio is favorably
obtained.
It is also worth mentioning that the amendment has provisions on petitions against
the establishment of a chicken dung business in a particular area. According to the
respondents, Section 2 of Municipal Ordinance Number 2008-03 states that petitions
against or opposing the establishment of such chicken dung business, the same shall be
resolved in accordance with corresponding provisions of the ordinance.
Moreover, the ordinance also demands that regulatory fee shall be remitted to the
general fund of the municipality, except a portion of the share of the barangay which shall
be treated as a Special Fund to be used for the proper supervision and regulation of the
business of selling chicken dung in the concerned barangay. In other words, fifty centavos
(PhP0.50) of the total regulatory fee imposed on every sack of chicken dung sold shall be
shared and given to barangay where the chicken dung business is established. Eventually,
30% thereof shall be treated as special fund and shall be utilized in the proper regulation
and supervision of the business chicken dung while 70% shall be remitted to the general
fund of the concerned barangay.
The Local Government Unit key informants revealed that presence of the chicken
dung trade in the municipality gave additional income to the municipality. Such additional
income was accordingly instrumental in paying the services of casual and/or contractual
employees. Since its transfer to the municipality of Tublay, it has been able to provide the
municipality additional revenue. The Caponga Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU),
on the other hand, stated that the income derived from the chicken dung trade in the
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
barangay was used to fund the construction of barangay roads. According to the
respondents, the BLGU was also able to purchase a barangay truck which was very useful
in hauling garbage from the barangay. Moreover, barangay Caponga purchased an LPG
burner (with LPG tank) and a Digital Video Disk player which were donated to the Daycare
Center. It also gave supplemental funds for the center’s feeding program. Another worth-
mentioning contribution of the presence of chicken dung business in the community is the
employment opportunity it gave to some residents. Accordingly, there are residents who
were hired as porters in the chicken dung business centers in the barangay.
The greatest number of traders and porters revealed that the chicken dung trade
provided then financial support that helped them cater the basic needs of their families. The
respondents further explained that because of their involvement in the chicken dung trade,
they were able to have money for food, shelter and clothing. There were some respondents
who claimed to have saved some amount for future household needs. Only few trader
and/or porter respondents accepted that the chicken dung trade provided the necessary
financial support to cater to the educational requirement of their children.
Besides, the greatest number of resident respondents revealed that the trade provided
employment opportunities among the residents. Accordingly, most of the porters are local
residents. Besides, the chicken dung traders are also paying considerable rent to the owner
of the lot where the particular business is established.
As to its contribution to the municipality and/or barangay, the respondents revealed
that it provided additional revenue in the form of taxes. They affirmed the previous
discussion that from the PhP1.50 charge per sack of chicken dung sold in a particular trade
center, PhP1.00 foes to the municipal coffer and the remaining PhP0.50 to the barangay.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
There were four respondents who claimed that presence of the chicken dung trade in the
community was instrumental in increasing the sales of their sari-sari store. They further
explained that aside from the purchases made by the traders/porters from their stores,
farmers and drivers also buy from their store every time they drop to purchase sacks of
chicken dung.
On the ill-effects of the presence of chicken dung trade in the community, three
LGU respondents admitted that the chicken dung facility is a nuisance to the community;
and the obnoxious smell/odor of the chicken dung irritates residents and by passers. As to
being a nuisance in the community, there are instances when the huge trucks hauling
chicken dung arrive in various hours of the night which disturbs nearby residents. Such is
worsened by the loud voices of the porters. At least two LGU respondents claimed that the
chicken dung facility attracts pests and/or rodents.
As to the traders, they obviously perceived that the chicken dung trade has no ill-
effects to the community. Only one respondent, however, stated that the trade is sometimes
a nuisance to the community.
Of the 40 porters, only few cited that the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken dung is
very irritating. However, they have to bear with it since it is their only source of livelihood.
Furthermore, with their very long exposure to the odor, they accordingly got use to it. One
respondent claimed that the chicken dung facility is considered nuisance to the community.
Accordingly, the nearby residents are often disturbed with the arrival of the carrier trucks
much more during the night. The loud voices of the porters also add to the noise. Besides,
at least one respondent stated that presence of chicken dung in the area attracts pests and
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
rodents. Being a resident of the area, he accordingly observed that upon the establishment
of the facility in the area, appearances of rats were doubled if not tripled.
Nearby residents considered the chicken dung facility as nuisance to the
community. They are accordingly disturbed by the delivery trucks upon their arrival at
night. According to the respondents, the roaring engines of the delivery trucks and very
loud voices of porters curtail their sleep. Furthermore, there were instances when the
porters are inconsiderate during their drinking spree.
The same number of respondents revealed that the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken
dung is very irritating. This is accordingly experienced in the morning and afternoon when
it’s quite windy in the area. From these respondents, at least ten claimed that the obnoxious
smell causes headaches, chest pains and other illnesses. Others accordingly lose their
appetite. Besides, there were two respondents who added that presence of the chicken dung
trade in the area attracts pests and rodents.
Conclusions
Based on the findings, the following conclusions are made:
1. Being an entrepreneurial facility, the establishment of chicken dung trades in a
community benefits various sectors. It does not only help the Local Government Unit in
the form of taxes but also provide employment opportunities to the residents; and
2. Despite the financial or economic benefits from the chicken dung trade, it also
has ill-effects much more to the residents and environment.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Recommendations
The following are recommended:
1. The ordinance should also include safety nets for the residents near the chicken
dung trade. If not, they should situate the trading centers in secluded areas where no
resident will be affected. Nevertheless, the area should be well accessible to the consumers;
2. Possibilities of using part of the taxes collected from the chicken dung trade
should be used to safeguard the residents in the community where the trades exist;
3. The chicken dung traders, in coordination with concerned agencies, should
conduct researches on how they can eradicate, if not minimize its ill-effects to the
community and/or environment.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
LITERATURE CITED
ARO, S. 2011. Chicken dung takes effect. Retrieved July 2011 from
http://cordilleravoice.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=601:chicke
n-dung-ordinance-takeseffect&catid=77:environment&Itemid=111.
ASIO L.G and A. B. ESCASINAS.2006.Response of corn to chicken dung and rice hull
ash application and mycorrhizal fungi inoculation. Annals of Tropical Research 26: 23-36
from http://soil-environment.blogspot.com/2010_01_01_archive.html.
BARANGAY SHILAN RESIDENTS. 2009. Northern Philippines times. Retrieved
February 2009 from http://www.northpil.times.blogspot.com.
CARIÑO, G. 2009. Inquirer Northern Luzon. Retrieved May 2009 from
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20090515205094/Chicken
dung-trade-stinks-in-Benguet-areas.
GASPAR, S. 2012 Chicken dung fee hike no negative effects. Retrieved from
http://www.nordis.net/?p=9298.
JOSE, R. B.2010. Perception and attitudes of vegetable farmers in Natubleng, Bugias
Benguet on the utilization of chicken dung.
LAKING,
L.
2011.
Benefits
of
Chicken
dung.
Retrieved
http://www.baguiomidlandcourier.com.ph/strike.asp?mode=archives/2011/march/3-6.
MUNICIPAL ORDINANCE NO. 2002-05. The ordinance regulating the business of
Selling chicken dung. Tublay Office of Sangguniang Bayan, October 28, 2002.
MUNICIPAL ORDINANCE NO. 2008-03.“An ordinance amending municipal ordinance
No.
2002-05 an ordinance regulating the storage, selling, display and dealing of
Chicken dung within the territorial jurisdiction of Tublay, Benguet imposing penal
Sanctions for violations of the provision hereof, imposing regulatory fee thereof
Amending article III of the code of the administrative ordinances for the purpose,
Particularly section 4, 5 and 9 thereof, and for similar purpose” Tublay Office of
Sangguiniang Bayan, November 14, 2008.
SCHJEGEL, A. J 1992. Effects of composted manure on soil chemical properties and
Nitrogen use by grain sorghum, journal of production agriculture, vol. 5, no.1 pp153-157.
SEE, A. D 2011. La Trinidad legalized sale of chicken dung. Retrieved February 16, 2009
fromhttp://www.mb.com.ph/node/196542.
SUMALAG, B. A. 2012. Chicken dung regulation is valid. Retrieved October 10, 2010
from http://www.nordis.net.com.ph.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013. Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga
and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet. Benguet State University, La Trinidad Benguet.
Adviser: Constantino T. Sudaypan Sr., Ph.D.
ABSTRACT
The chicken dung trade may have ill-effects but it economically contributed to the
development of the municipality of Tublay. This resulted from the study that assessed the
legacy of the chicken dung trade in the municipality.
Conducted in barangays Ambassador and Caponga, Tublay where chicken dung
trading centers are established, the study involved 120 key informants: Local Government
Units, 6; chicken dung facilities, 34; chicken dung porters, 40; and residents nearby chicken
dung trades, 40. Actual site visits and conduct of interview among key informants were
undertaken in December 2012.
As to the findings of the study, the chicken dung trade in Tublay started in 2002 by
virtue of Municipal Ordinance Number 2002-05. Approved in October 28, 2002, the
ordinance regulated storing, selling, displaying and dealing of chicken dung within the
territorial jurisdiction of Tublay. In 2008, the Sangguniang Bayan of Tublay passed
Municipal Ordinance Number 2008-03, amending the earlier ordinance. One major
amendment is on the endorsement of the Sangguniang Barangay on the proposed chicken
dung business wherein it shall be supported by documentary evidences showing and
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
proving that public consultation of a series of public consultation had been conducted in
the sitio where the chicken dung business be established. Moreover, the ordinance also
demands that regulatory fee shall be remitted to the general fund of the municipality, except
a portion of the share of the barangay which shall be treated as a Special Fund to be used
for the proper supervision and regulation of the business of selling chicken dung in the
concerned barangay. In other words, fifty centavos (PhP0.50) of the total regulatory fee
imposed on every sack of chicken dung sold shall be shared and given to the barangay
where the chicken dung business is established. Eventually, 30% thereof shall be treated
as special fund and shall be utilized in the proper regulation and supervision of the business
chicken dung while 70% shall be remitted to the general fund of the concerned barangay.
Presence of the chicken dung trade gave additional income to the municipality.
Such additional income was accordingly instrumental in paying the services of casual
and/or contractual employees. Moreover, income derived from the chicken dung trade in
the barangay was used to fund the construction of barangay roads, purchase of utility truck,
purchase of appliances and cooking facilities for the Daycare center, and feeding program.
Another worth-mentioning contribution of the presence of chicken dung business in the
community is the employment opportunity it gave to some residents. Accordingly, there
are residents who were hired as porters in the chicken dung facilities in the barangay.
The chicken dung trade provided financial support that helped the traders and/or
porters cater the basic needs of their families. It also provided the necessary financial
support to cater to the educational requirement of their children.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Employment opportunities were at stake among the residents. Accordingly, most
of the porters are local residents. Besides, the chicken dung traders are also paying
considerable rent to the owner of the lot where the particular business is established.
As to its contribution to the municipality and/or barangay, the chicken dung trade
provided additional revenue in the form of taxes. The presence of the chicken dung trade
in the community was instrumental in increasing the sales of nearby sari-sari stores. Aside
from the purchases made by the traders/porters from their stores, farmers and drivers also
buy from nearby stores every time they stop to purchase sacks of chicken dung.
On the ill-effects of the presence of chicken dung trade in the community in a
descending order of gravity, are as follows: the chicken dung facility is a nuisance to the
community; the obnoxious smell/odor of the chicken dung irritates residents and by
passers; the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken dung causes headaches, chest pains and other
illnesses; and the chicken dung attracts pests and rodents.
As to the recommendations, the ordinance relative to chicken dung should also
include safety nets for the residents near the chicken dung trade like situating the trading
centers in secluded areas where no resident will be affected. Nevertheless, the area should
be well accessible to the consumers. Moreover, possibilities of using part of the taxes
collected from the chicken dung trade should be used to safeguard the residents in the
community where the trades exist. Lastly, the chicken dung traders, in coordination with
concerned agencies, should conduct researches on how they can eradicate, if not minimize
its ill-effects to the community and/or environment.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This section presents the findings of the study on legacy of the chicken dung trade
in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet. Specifically, it reflects the demographic
profile of the respondents as to gender, civil status, age bracket and highest educational
attainment. It also includes the history of the chicken dung trade in Tublay, Benguet; the
benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade on the development of the
barangay/municipality; and ill-effects of the presence of the chicken dung in the
municipality as perceived by the respondents.
Demographic Profile of Respondents
Table 1 presents the demographic profile of the respondents as to gender, civil
status, age bracket, and highest educational attainment. There is only one female among
the Local Government Unit key informants. Two of the respondents are single. All the six
respondents are degree holders. Almost all of the chicken dung operators are males.
Nevertheless, the findings do not infer that the chicken dung trade is solely for males.
According to the respondents, it is actually a family business but it so happen that the males
are more frequently present in the area.
Moreover, all the chicken dung porters are males. According to the respondents, being a
porter needs masculine characteristics since they have to carry the sacks of chicken dung,
which is more or less 50 kilograms, from one truck to the other.
As to the gender of the residents nearby the chicken dung business centers, more
than 19% are males. It does not mean, however, that residents in the area are dominated
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Table 1. Demographic Profile of the respondents
LOCAL
CHICKEN
CHICKEN
GOVERNMENT
DUNG
DUNG
UNITS
OPERATORS
PORTERS
RESIDENTS
PROFILE
n=6
%
n=34
%
n=40
%
n=40
%
A. Gender
Male
5
4.17
32
26.67
40
33.33
23
19.17
Female
1
0.83
2
1.67
0
0.00
17
14.17
Total
6
5.00
34
28.34
40
33.33
40
33.33
B. Civil Status
Single
2
1.67
2
1.67
19
15.83
4
3.33
Married
4
3.33
32
26.67
21
17.5
36
30
Total
6
5.00
28.34
40
33.33
40
33.33
C. C. Age Bracket
15 and below
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0.00
16-20
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
3
2.5
21-25
1
0.83
2
1.67
13
10.83
1
0.83
26-30
1
0.83
0
0.00
14
11.67
3
2.5
31-35
1
0.83
4
3.33
5
4.17
3
2.5
36-40
1
0.83
5
4.17
6
5
5
4.17
41-45
1
0.83
10
8.33
0
0.00
11
9.17
46-50
0
0.00
6
5
0
0.00
8
6.67
51-55
1
0.83
6
5
0
0.00
2
1.67
56-60
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
More than 60yrs
0
0.00
1
0.83
0
0.00
2
1.67
Total
6
5
34
28.33
40
28.34
40
33.35
D. Educational Attainment
No schooling
0
0.00
2
1.67
2
1.67
1
0.83
Elementary
undergraduate
0
0.00
15
12.5
6
5
3
2.5
High school
undergraduate
0
0.00
4
3.33
20
16.67
21
17.50
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Table 1 Continued. . .
LOCAL
CHICKEN
CHICKEN
GOVERNMENT
DUNG
DUNG
UNITS
OPERATORS
PORTERS
RESIDENTS
PROFILE
n=6
%
n=34
%
n=40
%
n=40
%
High school
graduate
0
0.00
11
9.17
7
5.83
6
5
College
undergraduate
0
0.00
1
0.83
3
2.50
6
5
College graduate
6
5.00
3
2.5
1
0.83
1
0.83
Vocational course
(TESDA)
0
0.00
0
0.00
1
0.83
1
0.83
Total
6
5
34
28.33
40
33.33 33.32 33.32
by males. It may have been incidental that the male members of the family were those left
in the household during the conduct of interview. On the civil status of the respondents,
almost all of the chicken dung operators were married. Furthermore, majority of the porters
were married. Besides, a great majority of the residents were married.
As to the operators, the ages of the greatest number of respondents range from 41-
45 years old. Only one respondent revealed to have been more than 60 years old. The
greatest number of porter respondents has ages ranging from 26-30 years old. On the other
hand, nearly 10% of the residents have ages ranging from 41-45 years old.
The table also shows that there were three respondents, who were not able to attend
formal schooling; two of whom are porters, and one resident. According to these
respondents, they were faced with grave poverty and such prohibited them from availing
even the primary grades.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
History of Chicken Dung Trade in Tublay
As revealed by the LGU key informants, the chicken dung trade in Tublay started
in 2002 by virtue of Municipal Ordinance Number 2002-05. Approved in October 28,
2002, the ordinance regulated storing, selling, displaying and dealing of chicken dung
within the territorial jurisdiction of Tublay. Furthermore, it also imposed penal sanctions
for violations of the provisions, and imposed regulatory fees. The ordinance was
accordingly premised by the 1994 decision of the Regional Trial Court ordering the
immediate ban on selling and storing chicken dung in Densi, Tomay, and Shilan in the
municipality of La Trinidad.
The foregoing revelation corroborates the statements of Sumalag (2010), that in
1992, the Municipal Officials of La Trinidad filed a case with the regional trial court for
the abatement of nuisance with prayer for the issuance of preliminary injunction against 20
individuals engaged in chicken dung business in Densi, Tomay, and Shilan. Eventually,
the RTC in 1994 ordered the immediate ban on selling and storing dung in the said three
areas.
In 2008, the Sangguniang Bayan of Tublay passed Municipal Ordinance Number
2008-03, amending the earlier ordinance. One major amendment is on the endorsement of
the Sangguniang Barangay on the proposed chicken dung business wherein it shall be
supported by documentary evidences showing and proving that public consultation of a
series of public consultation had been conducted in the sitio where the chicken dung
business be established. Furthermore, it should also provide a proof that prior informed
consent of the majority of the affected community members of the sitio is favorably
obtained.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
It is also worth mentioning that the amendment has provisions on petitions against
the establishment of a chicken dung business in a particular area. According to the
respondents, Section 2 of Municipal Ordinance Number 2008-03 states that petitions
against or opposing the establishment of such chicken dung business, the same shall be
resolved in accordance with corresponding provisions of the ordinance.
Moreover, the ordinance also demands that regulatory fee shall be remitted to the
general fund of the municipality, except a portion of the share of the barangay which shall
be treated as a Special Fund to be used for the proper supervision and regulation of the
business of selling chicken dung in the concerned barangay. In other words, fifty centavos
(PhP0.50) of the total regulatory fee imposed on every sack of chicken dung sold shall be
shared and given to barangay where the chicken dung business is established. Eventually,
30% thereof shall be treated as special fund and shall be utilized in the proper regulation
and supervision of the business chicken dung while 70% shall be remitted to the general
fund of the concerned barangay.
Benefits Brought About by the
Chicken Dung Trade
As shown in Table 2, the Local Government Unit key informants revealed that
presence of the chicken dung trade in the municipality gave additional income to the
municipality. According to the Municipal Local Government Unit respondents, the
additional income collected is directed to the general fund of the municipality. Such
additional income was accordingly instrumental in paying the following services:
Administrative and Legislative Services which includes personal services of employees;
Maintenance and Other Operating Expense such as construction of roads and canals;
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Table 2. Benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as claimed by Local Government
Units (N=120)
LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT
TUBLAY
AMBASSADOR CAPONGA
BENEFIT
MLGU
BLGU
BLGU
n=2
%
n=2
%
n=2
%
Provision of additional income
2
1.67
2
1.67
2
1.67
Support to infrastructure projects
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
Support to social enhancement
programs
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
Provision of funds to purchase
vehicles
0
0.00
0
0.00
2
1.67
Provision of funds for local
employment
1
0.83
2
1.67
2
1.67
Note: Multiple responses
Environmental and Natural Resources such as construction of water works system, clean
and green, maintenance and improvement of barangay nursery and tree planting;
Agriculture and Aquaculture which include opening of farm-to-market road, tram line,
livelihood programs, fisheries. Other program areas like Education, Health, Social Welfare
and Development, and Public safety are covered by the general fund of the municipality.
According to the key informants, almost 20% of the total general fund is generated from
the Chicken dung trade.
The findings support the article of Laking (2011) that Tublay is enjoying the
benefits derived from hosting the chicken dung trade. Since its transfer to the municipality
of Tublay, it has been able to provide the municipality additional revenue.
The Caponga Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU), on the other hand, stated
that the income derived from the chicken dung trade in the barangay was used to fund the
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
construction of barangay roads (Figure 2). According to the respondents, the BLGU was
also able to purchase a barangay truck (Figure 3) which was very useful in hauling garbage
from the barangay. Moreover, barangay Caponga purchased an LPG burner (with LPG
tank) and a Digital Video Disk player which were donated to the Daycare Center. It also
gave supplemental funds for the center’s feeding program. Another worth-mentioning
contribution of the presence of chicken dung business in the community is the employment
opportunity it gave to some residents. Accordingly, there are residents who were hired as
porters in the chicken dung business centers in the barangay (Figure 4).
The Ambassador barangay Local Government key informants stated that the
chicken dung trade also brought additional income to the barangay. The additional income
collected formed part of the general fund of the barangay. At the same time, the chicken
dung business employed some residents from Ambassador.
Figure 2. Barangay road in kapungan, Tublay funded by taxes from the chicken dung trade
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Figure 3. Delivery truck purchased by barangay Caponga funded by taxes derived from
the chicken dung trade
Figure 4. Most of the porters working in the chicken dung center are also from the locality
Table 3 shows the benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade to the lives of
the traders and porters. The greatest number of traders and porters revealed that the chicken
dung trade provided then financial support that helped them cater the basic needs their
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
families. The respondents further explained that because of their involvement in the
chicken dung trade, they were able to have money for food, shelter and clothing.
One trader explained that he buys chicken dung from a poultry farm in Pampanga
once or twice a week depending on the disposal of the product. Accordingly, he invests
PhP50-60,000 per truck. One truck loads 500-600 sacks containing different types of
chicken dung.
The key informant further revealed that chicken dung is classified as layers, or
harvest, depending on its source. Layers and aircons are accordingly bought at-source at
PhP50-60 and sold to farmers at PhP100-110. Harvests, on the other hand, are bought at
PhP20-30 and passed to consumers at PhP80-90. The amount depends on the selling
seasons.
Moreover, the cost of chicken dung increases during rainy season and decreases on
summer. Figure 5 shows a truckload of chicken dung displayed at the trading center in
Tublay Benguet.
Table 3. Benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as claimed by traders and porters
(N=120)
NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS
BENEFIT
TRADER
PORTER
n=34
100.00 n=40 100.00
Provision of financial support to cater basic needs
(food, shelter, and clothing) of family
30
25.00
33
22.5
Provision of financial support to cater educational
needs of children
3
2.50
2
1.67
Provision of savings for other household needs
4
3.33
9
7.50
Note: Multiple responses
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Figure 5. Truckload of chicken dung containing 600 sacks displayed at the chicken dung
trading center in Tublay, Benguet.
There were some respondents who claimed to have saved some amount for future
household needs. Only few trader and/or porter respondents accepted that the chicken dung
trade provided the necessary financial support to cater to the educational requirement of
their children. Findings of the study affirms the report of Laking (2011) in the Baguio
Midland Courier that the town of Tublay is enjoying the benefits derived from hosting the
chicken dung trade, notably in barangays Caponga and Ambassador. He further mentioned
that since the transfer of the trade to the town in July 2010, it was able to provide the
municipality additional revenue totaling to more or less one million pesos from August
2010 to January 2011.
Table 4 reflects the benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as claimed by nearby
community residents. As shown in the table, the greatest number of respondents revealed
that the trade provided employment opportunities among the residents. Accordingly, most
of the porters are local residents. Besides, the chicken dung traders are also paying
considerable rent to the owner of the lot where the particular business is established.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
As to its contribution to the municipality and/or barangay, the respondents revealed that it
provided additional revenue in the form of taxes. They affirmed the previous discussion
that from the PhP1.50 charge per sack of chicken dung sold in a particular trade center,
PhP1.00 foes to the municipal coffer and the remaining PhP0.50 to the barangay. There
were four respondents who claimed that presence of the chicken dung trade in the
community was instrumental in increasing the sales of their sari-sari store. They further
explained that aside from the purchases made by the traders/porters from their stores,
farmers and drivers also buy from their store every time they drop to purchase sacks of
chicken dung.
Conversely, there were some respondents who claimed that the chicken dung trade
has no benefits to the community. Accordingly, it only benefitted few and selected
individuals who were involved in the business.
Table 4. Benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as claimed by residents (N=120)
NUMBER OF
BENEFIT
PERCENT
RESPONDENTS
(%)
(n=40)
Provision of employment opportunities in the
community
16
13.33
Provision of additional income to the barangay and
municipality
14
11.67
Increased sales of nearby business establishments
4
3.33
None
13
10.83
Note: Multiple responses
Ill-Effects of the Chicken Dung Trade
Table 5 shows the perceived ill-effects of chicken dung according to the four groups
of respondents. Of the six Local Government Unit respondents, three admitted that the
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
chicken dung facility is a nuisance to the community; and the obnoxious smell/odor of the
chicken dung irritates residents and by passers. As to being a nuisance in the community,
there are instances when the huge trucks hauling chicken dung arrive in various hours of
the night which disturbs nearby residents. Such is worsened by the loud voices of the
porters. At least two LGU respondents claimed that the chicken dung facility attracts pests
and/or rodents.
As to the traders, they obviously perceived that the chicken dung trade has no ill-
effects to the community. Only one respondent, however, stated that the trade is sometimes
a nuisance to the community.
Of the 40 porters, only few cited that the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken dung is
very irritating. However, they have to bear with it since it is their only source of livelihood.
Furthermore, with their very long exposure to the odor, they accordingly got use to it. One
respondent claimed that the chicken dung facility is considered nuisance to the community.
Accordingly, the nearby residents are often disturbed with the arrival of the carrier trucks
much more during the night. The loud voices of the porters also add to the noise.
Besides, at least one respondent stated that presence of chicken dung in the area
attracts pests and rodents. Being a resident of the area, he accordingly observed that upon
the establishment of the facility in the area, appearances of rats were doubled if not tripled.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Table 5. Ill-effects of the chicken dung trade in the community as claimed by groups of
respondents (N=120)
RESPONDENTS
ILL-EFFECTS
LGUs
TRADERS
PORTERS RESIDENTS
n
%
n
%
n
%
n
%
The chicken dung facility is
considered nuisance to the
community
3
2.50
1
0.83
1
0.83
26
21.67
The obnoxious smell/odor of
chicken
dung
is
very
irritating
3
2.50
0
0.00
3
2.50
26
21.67
Presence of chicken dung in
the area attracts pests and/or
rodents
2
1.68
0
0.00
1
0.83
2
1.67
The obnoxious smell of
chicken
dung
causes
headaches, chest pains, and
other illnesses
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0.00
10
8.33
None
0
0.00
33
27.50
35
29.17
2
1.67
Note: Multiple responses
Nearby residents considered the chicken dung facility as nuisance to the
community. They are accordingly disturbed by the delivery trucks upon their arrival at
night. According to the respondents, the roaring engines of the delivery trucks and very
loud voices of porters curtail their sleep. Furthermore, there were instances when the
porters are inconsiderate during their drinking spree.
The same number of respondents revealed that the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken
dung is very irritating. This is accordingly experienced in the morning and afternoon when
it’s quite windy in the area. From these respondents, at least ten claimed that the obnoxious
smell causes headaches, chest pains and other illnesses. Others accordingly lose their
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
appetite. Besides, there were two respondents who added that presence of the chicken dung
trade in the area attracts pests and rodents.
Findings of the study relates to the sentiments of Barangay Shilan residents in 2009
as cited by Jose (2010) wherein they demanded the removal of the chicken dung trade in
the area for it caused headaches, dizziness, nausea and other respiratory discomfort among
them. Furthermore, it accordingly brought them sleepless nights as the foul sharp odor of
the chicken dung hangs in the cold air at night.
However, at least two respondents claimed that the presence of the chicken dung
trade has no ill-effects to the community.
Plan Relative to Chicken Dung Trade
According to the Local Government Units, they will instruct their concerned offices to
regularly and appropriately monitor the chicken dung businesses in the municipality. This
is accordingly with the premise that there are some chicken dung traders who are not
complying with the policies much more with Sections 5, 6, and 7 of Municipal Ordinance
Number 200-05. Moreover, they plan to be stricter in the collection of regulatory fees.
On the part of the chicken dung traders, they will accordingly continue the business as the
municipality will allow and for as long as there will be farmers who will buy chicken dung.
According to the respondents, they have gone through the business for so many years and
it has well entertained their economic needs.
Similarly, most of the porters stated that they will stay in the chicken dung business for as
long as the owner needs their services. However, there are few who revealed their intent of
moving to other jobs with higher remuneration. There was one respondent who accepted
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
that he is irritated with the bad smell of chicken dung he is tolerating it just to earn for his
family.
Basically, the residents were against the establishment of chicken dung trading centers in
the community. Nevertheless, they cannot do anything since it has been allowed by the
Local Government Units. Relatively, they plan to regularly remind the municipal as well
as barangay Local Government Units to look for more appropriate area for the chicken
dung trade.
On the other hand, there are respondents who tried accepting the existence of the
chicken dung trade in their community. According to them, they will just allow the
existence of the chicken dung trade as long as they will find ways of abating the obnoxious
smell of the chicken dung; and as long as the facility will not be a threat to the peace and
order of the community.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study documented the legacy of the chicken dung trade in Caponga and
ambassador in the municipality of Tublay. Specifically, it determined how the chicken
dung trade started; determined the benefits brought about by the chicken dung trade as
perceived by the group of respondents; characterized how the benefits derived from the
chicken dung trade contributed to the development of Tublay; and identified the ill-effects
of the chicken dung trade as claimed by the four groups of respondents.
Conducted in two barangays of Tublay where chicken dung traders exist, the key
informants include Municipal and Barangay Local Government Units (6), traders (34),
porters (40), and nearby residents (40). Data gathering with the use of interview guide
started in December 2012.
As to the findings of the study, there is only one female among the Local
Government Unit key informants. Two of the respondents are single. All the six
respondents are degree holders.
Almost all of the chicken dung operators are males. Moreover, all the chicken dung
porters are males. According to the respondents, being a porter needs masculine
characteristics since they have to carry the sacks of chicken dung, which is more or less 50
kilograms, from one truck to the other. As to the gender of the residents nearby the chicken
dung business centers, more than 60% are males.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
On the civil status of the respondents, almost all of the chicken dung operators are
married. Furthermore, majority of the porters are married. Besides, a great majority of the
residents are married.
None among the respondents is below 16 years old. As to the operators, the ages of
the greatest number of respondents range from 41-45 years old. Only one respondent
revealed to have been more than 60 years old. The greatest number of porter respondents
has ages ranging from 26-30 years old. On the other hand, more than 40% of the residents
have ages ranging from 41-45 years old.
Three respondents were not able to attend formal schooling; two of whom are
porters, and one resident. According to these respondents, they were faced with grave
poverty and such prohibited them from availing even the primary grades.
The chicken dung trade in Tublay started in 2002 by virtue of Municipal Ordinance
Number 2002-05. Approved in October 28, 2002, the ordinance regulated storing, selling,
displaying and dealing of chicken dung within the territorial jurisdiction of Tublay.
Furthermore, it also imposed penal sanctions for violations of the provisions, and imposed
regulatory fees. The ordinance was accordingly premised by the 1994 decision of the
Regional Trial Court ordering the immediate ban on selling and storing chicken dung in
Densi, Tomay, and Shilan in the municipality of La Trinidad.
In 2008, the Sangguniang Bayan of Tublay passed Municipal Ordinance Number
2008-03, amending the earlier ordinance. One major amendment is on the endorsement of
the Sangguniang Barangay on the proposed chicken dung business wherein it shall be
supported by documentary evidences showing and proving that public consultation of a
series of public consultation had been conducted in the sitio where the chicken dung
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
business be established. Furthermore, it should also provide a proof that prior informed
consent of the majority of the affected community members of the sitio is favorably
obtained.
It is also worth mentioning that the amendment has provisions on petitions against
the establishment of a chicken dung business in a particular area. According to the
respondents, Section 2 of Municipal Ordinance Number 2008-03 states that petitions
against or opposing the establishment of such chicken dung business, the same shall be
resolved in accordance with corresponding provisions of the ordinance.
Moreover, the ordinance also demands that regulatory fee shall be remitted to the
general fund of the municipality, except a portion of the share of the barangay which shall
be treated as a Special Fund to be used for the proper supervision and regulation of the
business of selling chicken dung in the concerned barangay. In other words, fifty centavos
(PhP0.50) of the total regulatory fee imposed on every sack of chicken dung sold shall be
shared and given to barangay where the chicken dung business is established. Eventually,
30% thereof shall be treated as special fund and shall be utilized in the proper regulation
and supervision of the business chicken dung while 70% shall be remitted to the general
fund of the concerned barangay.
The Local Government Unit key informants revealed that presence of the chicken
dung trade in the municipality gave additional income to the municipality. Such additional
income was accordingly instrumental in paying the services of casual and/or contractual
employees. Since its transfer to the municipality of Tublay, it has been able to provide the
municipality additional revenue. The Caponga Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU),
on the other hand, stated that the income derived from the chicken dung trade in the
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
barangay was used to fund the construction of barangay roads. According to the
respondents, the BLGU was also able to purchase a barangay truck which was very useful
in hauling garbage from the barangay. Moreover, barangay Caponga purchased an LPG
burner (with LPG tank) and a Digital Video Disk player which were donated to the Daycare
Center. It also gave supplemental funds for the center’s feeding program. Another worth-
mentioning contribution of the presence of chicken dung business in the community is the
employment opportunity it gave to some residents. Accordingly, there are residents who
were hired as porters in the chicken dung business centers in the barangay.
The greatest number of traders and porters revealed that the chicken dung trade
provided then financial support that helped them cater the basic needs of their families. The
respondents further explained that because of their involvement in the chicken dung trade,
they were able to have money for food, shelter and clothing. There were some respondents
who claimed to have saved some amount for future household needs. Only few trader
and/or porter respondents accepted that the chicken dung trade provided the necessary
financial support to cater to the educational requirement of their children.
Besides, the greatest number of resident respondents revealed that the trade provided
employment opportunities among the residents. Accordingly, most of the porters are local
residents. Besides, the chicken dung traders are also paying considerable rent to the owner
of the lot where the particular business is established.
As to its contribution to the municipality and/or barangay, the respondents revealed
that it provided additional revenue in the form of taxes. They affirmed the previous
discussion that from the PhP1.50 charge per sack of chicken dung sold in a particular trade
center, PhP1.00 foes to the municipal coffer and the remaining PhP0.50 to the barangay.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
There were four respondents who claimed that presence of the chicken dung trade in the
community was instrumental in increasing the sales of their sari-sari store. They further
explained that aside from the purchases made by the traders/porters from their stores,
farmers and drivers also buy from their store every time they drop to purchase sacks of
chicken dung.
On the ill-effects of the presence of chicken dung trade in the community, three
LGU respondents admitted that the chicken dung facility is a nuisance to the community;
and the obnoxious smell/odor of the chicken dung irritates residents and by passers. As to
being a nuisance in the community, there are instances when the huge trucks hauling
chicken dung arrive in various hours of the night which disturbs nearby residents. Such is
worsened by the loud voices of the porters. At least two LGU respondents claimed that the
chicken dung facility attracts pests and/or rodents.
As to the traders, they obviously perceived that the chicken dung trade has no ill-
effects to the community. Only one respondent, however, stated that the trade is sometimes
a nuisance to the community.
Of the 40 porters, only few cited that the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken dung is
very irritating. However, they have to bear with it since it is their only source of livelihood.
Furthermore, with their very long exposure to the odor, they accordingly got use to it. One
respondent claimed that the chicken dung facility is considered nuisance to the community.
Accordingly, the nearby residents are often disturbed with the arrival of the carrier trucks
much more during the night. The loud voices of the porters also add to the noise. Besides,
at least one respondent stated that presence of chicken dung in the area attracts pests and
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
rodents. Being a resident of the area, he accordingly observed that upon the establishment
of the facility in the area, appearances of rats were doubled if not tripled.
Nearby residents considered the chicken dung facility as nuisance to the
community. They are accordingly disturbed by the delivery trucks upon their arrival at
night. According to the respondents, the roaring engines of the delivery trucks and very
loud voices of porters curtail their sleep. Furthermore, there were instances when the
porters are inconsiderate during their drinking spree.
The same number of respondents revealed that the obnoxious smell/odor of chicken
dung is very irritating. This is accordingly experienced in the morning and afternoon when
it’s quite windy in the area. From these respondents, at least ten claimed that the obnoxious
smell causes headaches, chest pains and other illnesses. Others accordingly lose their
appetite. Besides, there were two respondents who added that presence of the chicken dung
trade in the area attracts pests and rodents.
Conclusions
Based on the findings, the following conclusions are made:
1. Being an entrepreneurial facility, the establishment of chicken dung trades in a
community benefits various sectors. It does not only help the Local Government Unit in
the form of taxes but also provide employment opportunities to the residents; and
2. Despite the financial or economic benefits from the chicken dung trade, it also
has ill-effects much more to the residents and environment.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
Recommendations
The following are recommended:
1. The ordinance should also include safety nets for the residents near the chicken
dung trade. If not, they should situate the trading centers in secluded areas where no
resident will be affected. Nevertheless, the area should be well accessible to the consumers;
2. Possibilities of using part of the taxes collected from the chicken dung trade
should be used to safeguard the residents in the community where the trades exist;
3. The chicken dung traders, in coordination with concerned agencies, should
conduct researches on how they can eradicate, if not minimize its ill-effects to the
community and/or environment.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013
LITERATURE CITED
ARO, S. 2011. Chicken dung takes effect. Retrieved July 2011 from
http://cordilleravoice.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=601:chicke
n-dung-ordinance-takeseffect&catid=77:environment&Itemid=111.
ASIO L.G and A. B. ESCASINAS.2006.Response of corn to chicken dung and rice hull
ash application and mycorrhizal fungi inoculation. Annals of Tropical Research 26: 23-36
from http://soil-environment.blogspot.com/2010_01_01_archive.html.
BARANGAY SHILAN RESIDENTS. 2009. Northern Philippines times. Retrieved
February 2009 from http://www.northpil.times.blogspot.com.
CARIÑO, G. 2009. Inquirer Northern Luzon. Retrieved May 2009 from
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20090515205094/Chicken
dung-trade-stinks-in-Benguet-areas.
GASPAR, S. 2012 Chicken dung fee hike no negative effects. Retrieved from
http://www.nordis.net/?p=9298.
JOSE, R. B.2010. Perception and attitudes of vegetable farmers in Natubleng, Bugias
Benguet on the utilization of chicken dung.
LAKING,
L.
2011.
Benefits
of
Chicken
dung.
Retrieved
http://www.baguiomidlandcourier.com.ph/strike.asp?mode=archives/2011/march/3-6.
MUNICIPAL ORDINANCE NO. 2002-05. The ordinance regulating the business of
Selling chicken dung. Tublay Office of Sangguniang Bayan, October 28, 2002.
MUNICIPAL ORDINANCE NO. 2008-03.“An ordinance amending municipal ordinance
No.
2002-05 an ordinance regulating the storage, selling, display and dealing of
Chicken dung within the territorial jurisdiction of Tublay, Benguet imposing penal
Sanctions for violations of the provision hereof, imposing regulatory fee thereof
Amending article III of the code of the administrative ordinances for the purpose,
Particularly section 4, 5 and 9 thereof, and for similar purpose” Tublay Office of
Sangguiniang Bayan, November 14, 2008.
SCHJEGEL, A. J 1992. Effects of composted manure on soil chemical properties and
Nitrogen use by grain sorghum, journal of production agriculture, vol. 5, no.1 pp153-157.
SEE, A. D 2011. La Trinidad legalized sale of chicken dung. Retrieved February 16, 2009
fromhttp://www.mb.com.ph/node/196542.
SUMALAG, B. A. 2012. Chicken dung regulation is valid. Retrieved October 10, 2010
from http://www.nordis.net.com.ph.
Legacy of the Chicken Dung Trade in Caponga and Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet |
AMKING, LEA M. APRIL2013