Agriculture holds immense importance as it serves as the backbone of human civilization, providing the foundation for food security, economic growth, and livelihoods of billions of people. This cross-sectional research aimed to establish a baseline of agriculture performance and rural development indicators among farmers and fishers in Quirino Province, Philippines. The study collected data from 200 participants through structured questionnaires to gain valuable insights into agricultural practices and the rural development landscape. The findings reveal challenges related to an aging workforce, gender disparities, and low cooperative membership in the region. A significant proportion of respondents fall within the middle-aged group, emphasizing the reliance on experienced individuals in agriculture. Addressing the aging agricultural workforce and promoting youth engagement is crucial for the sector’s continuity and growth. The study highlights a near-equal representation of male and female participants, necessitating efforts to empower women in farming for sustainable rural development. Additionally, addressing the needs of farming households and enhancing access to education and resources are essential to boost agricultural productivity. The study emphasizes the importance of land tenure security for farmers and fishers, along with the potential for increased collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, and development partners to support agricultural development in the region. This baseline survey provides critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders to devise targeted strategies aimed at fostering sustainable rural development and a prosperous agricultural sector in Quirino Province, Philippines.
published by the Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences | JBES
Publication Date: 2022-11-26