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Assessing the Rice Pest Management Practices and their Implications to Productivity and Income of Farmers in Selected Barangays of Calauan, Laguna, 2023
No full textThe study was conducted to assess the rice pest management practices and their implications to productivity and income of farmers in selected barangays of Calauan, Laguna. Specifically, it aimed to: (1) characterize the rice farmers in the study area; (2) discuss the pest management practices of the rice farmers; (3) assess the rice farmers\u27 knowledge on various insect pests, natural enemies, and pesticide toxicity; (4) determine the productivity of insecticide expenditure or its effect on mean yield; (5) compare the surveyed villages with respect to reported pest pressure vis-a-vis their rice production costs and income; and (6) provide recommendations based on the reported pest problem encountered by the rice farmers.
There were 69 rice farmers from the top three rice-producing barangays of Calauan, specifically Masiit, Bangyas, and Dayap who participated in the study. The study utilized both primary and secondary data to characterize the rice farmers, along with their pest management practices. It also determined their knowledge on various rice pests, natural enemies, and pesticide toxicity on human health. Moreover, the productivity or mean yield effects of fertilized (nitrogen) and pest control (insecticide) was estimated. Cost and return analysis was also used to compare the production costs and net incomes of the surveyed villages. Statistical analysis was then employed to determine the significant differences in the yields and net incomes of rice farmers across the barangays.
The results of the study showed that most rice farmers in the are were older, started growing rice in their early teenage years, completed at least secondary education, or lessees, members of farmers\u27 association, actively participated in training and seminars, and had access to credit. Their pest management practices included biological methods such as using predicators and plating of flowering plants, as well as a cultural methods like synchronous planting using resistant rice varies. However, the most widely adopted pest management practice was chemical control, with Butyphenyl Methycarbamate (BPMC) +Chlorpyrifos being the commonly used insecticide.
It was also found that rice farmers in the study area were less knowledgeable on insect pests, while knowledgeable enough on natural enemies and pesticide toxicity on human health. Yet, most of them applied insecticides that are categorize as moderately hazardous. Hence, they practice pre-emptive measures by wearing facemasks and proper clothes to protect them from the harmful effects of chemicals. However, despite these precautions, they still experienced dizziness and a sese of weakness after spraying pesticides.
In terms of productivity, the analysis showed that there was an overuse of insecticides by farmers in the study area. The study also found that Masiit rice farmers had the lowest pesticide control cost, mean yield, and net income per hectare compared to Dayap and Bangyas due to pest attacks. Therefore, it is important to provide assistance and proper training on the timing and methods of pesticide application to address this problem. Moreover, exploring alternative methods for managing rice pests, instead of solely relying on chemical pesticides is recommended to reduce the short- and long- term effects of pesticides on human health
Discriminant analysis programming and application
No full textTwo computational procedures were illustrated in the study on the application of discriminant analysis in social research and taxonomy. The first procedure applies when only two groups are involved and the second one deals with three or more groups. The first procedure was used in analyzing the data in social research and the second procedure was used in taxonomy. The results showed that there exists a significant discrimination between the groups of success and failure (social research) and among the genera Amblyseius, Phytoseius, Pennaseius, and Typhlodromus (taxonomy).
In the evaluation of the classification function for each observation, any observation can be classified as belonging to any of the groups involved although that observation was already presumed and actually belongs to another group
Factors Affecting the Intention to Use Mechanized Harvesters of Sugar Farmers in Tarlac Province Sugar Farmers in Tarlac Province
No full textThe sugar industry has been a significant part of the Philippines\u27 economy, especially during the Spanish colonial period when sugarcane became a primary cash crop. Today, more than 80,000 farmers cultivate sugarcane across the country, with smallholder farms dominating the landscape. However, the industry faces challenges such as labor shortages, increasing costs, and the need for modernization.
One potential solution to these challenges is the adoption of mechanized harvesters, which offer increased efficiency and productivity. The successful adoption of this technology depends on factors like perceived ease of use and usefulness, as well as attitudes toward new technology. Studies have shown that farmers\u27 optimism and innovativeness positively influence their perception of mechanized harvesters\u27 ease of use and usefulness.
The study analyzed the responses of 381 sugarcane farmers in Tarlac province using the Technology Readiness Index (TRI) and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) frameworks, along with socio-demographic factors. The participants are stratified into two according to size of land owned. Statistical tests such as Kendall’s tau-b correlation and multiple regression analysis to understand the influence of these factors on the perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and use intention of mechanized harvesters in sugar farms in Tarlac.
The findings supported the hypotheses of the TRI and TAM models, showing that optimism and innovativeness positively influenced the perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness of mechanized harvesters. The results for small hold farms suggest that individual readiness indicators like optimism, innovativeness, and anxiety positively influence users\u27 acceptance and intention to use technology, and insecurity have the opposite effect. Similarly, optimism showed a positive relationship with the use intention of medium to large farms, while innovativeness shares the opposite. Interestingly, anxiety and optimism does not affect the use intention of medium to large farms.
For both strata, socio-demographic factors generally do not play a significant role, except for education level, which positively influences users\u27 perceptions and intentions. While income negatively affects the perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness of small hold farms. In general, farmers are willing and able to use mechanized harvesters, some were still hesitant or unaware of their presence. The benefits of the mechanized harvester are crucial to increasing the likelihood of technology adoption rather than the simplicity of the technology.
This study focuses on sugar farmers in Tarlac Province and aims to assess their intention to use mechanized harvesters. By understanding the factors influencing their acceptance or resistance to this technology, the research aims to provide insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the sugar industry. The findings could lead to strategies that encourage technology adoption, ultimately leading to a more efficient and sustainable sugar industry in Tarlac Province and the Philippines
Consumer Perception and Usage Behavior Towards Bio-N Fertilizer Among Rice Famers Residing in Bay and Calauan Laguna
No full textThis study underscores the pivotal role of fertilizers in Philippine agriculture and the growing reliance on them. The study highlights the advantages of organic fertilizers, particularly biofertilizers, in boosting soil fertility and crop yields while mitigating environmental concerns. With a focus on Bay and Calauan, Laguna, this study aims to determine the factors that shape farmers’ decisions and guide effective marketing strategies. The specific objectives of the study were: (a) To present the demographic profile of rice farmers in Bay and Calauan, Laguna; (b) Present the farmers\u27 choice and usage behavior towards Bio-N Fertilizer in Bay and Calauan, Laguna; (c) Assess the factors affecting the farmers’ perception and usage behavior towards bio-n fertilizers in Bay and Calauan, Laguna; (d) Recommend insights and strategies for marketing Bio-N Fertilizer in Bay and Calauan, Laguna. The significance of the study lies in its potential to inform stakeholders, farmers, policymakers, producers, and researchers about sustainable agriculture practices and biofertilizer adoption.
A descriptive research design was utilized in this study. A total of 65 respondents consisting of 32 farmers from Calauan and 33 farmers in Bay, were interviewed using structured questionnaires and interviews. The respondents were selected using a non- probability sampling approach involving snowball and convenience sampling. The data analysis involves descriptive statistics to summarize the farmers\u27 demographic profiles and provide insights into farmers’ characteristics. A Likert scale was also employed to assess biofertilizer users\u27 and non-users knowledge, awareness, and perception. Lastly, ETA Correlation based on Kruskal Wallis was employed to determine the relationship between decision-making and perception and usage behavior, which provides insights into correlation strength.
The study\u27s findings revealed that most rice farmers surveyed are older males, and many are between 56 and 70 years old. Most farmers were married with a family of 3 to 6 members. In terms of education, high school graduates are the most common, followed by college graduates. Over half of the farmers are members of associations or cooperatives. Farmland rent status reveals a mix of ownership and tenancy. Most farmers have substantial experience, with the majority having six or more years of farming. Farm sizes are mostly small to medium, influencing land use and productivity. Income per cropping season predominantly ranges from 50,001 to 100,000 pesos, with farming being the primary income source. Additional income sources from some farmers include selling and planting vegetables, government pensions, owning small stores, and working as tricycle drivers.
The findings also revealed that 66.2% of respondents do not use Bio-N fertilizer, while 33.2% do. Non-users cite a lack of awareness, reluctance to change, risk concerns, and adherence to traditional methods. In contrast, users report benefits like improved plant roots and increased income. A notable difference in Bio-N usage between Bay and Calauan suggests better promotion in Bay. Factors influencing usage include awareness, accessibility, and regional differences. It was also revealed that 50% of Bio-N users mix the powder with water for spraying, while 45.5% mix it with seedlings, showing farmers’ adaptability and understanding of application techniques.
Moreover, farmers using Bio-N report benefits like improved rice quality and yields, ease of application, and effectiveness, endorsed by the Department of Agriculture (DA). Despite higher labor costs, satisfaction is high. Non-users prefer traditional fertilizers due to familiarity and concerns about land impact but are open to new methods if incentivized. The DA, the main information source, educate farmers through seminars, increasing awareness. Decision factors include fertilizer quality, effectiveness, affordability, ease of use, and support from authorities and peers. Positive testimonials and initiatives boost confidence in adopting Bio-N for better productivity and profitability.
The perception of Bio-N fertilizer varies significantly between users and non- users. Users generally view Bio-N positively, citing improvements in crop quality, cost reduction, increased profitability, and availability. These views are supported by studies
showing biofertilizers, like Bio-N, benefit soil health and crop yields. Conversely, non- users tend to be neutral or unaware of Bio-N’s advantages, likely due to limited exposure to information or a preference for traditional fertilizers. Government initiatives, such as subsidies and promotional campaigns, are crucial for raising awareness but appear to have a communication gap, especially among non-users. This highlights the need for more targeted educational campaigns to bridge knowledge gaps and address concerns.
The findings also revealed a strong correlation between farmers’ perceptions of biofertilizers and their usage behavior. Positive perceptions, such as Bio-N’s affordability, cost reduction, profitability, and knowledge about bio-n fertilizers, are strongly associated with higher usage rates. Other influential factors include availability, production increase, crop quality improvement, risk reduction, soil fertility improvement, eco-friendliness, and government support and subsidies. These perceptions significantly drive farmers’ decisions to adopt bio-n fertilizers.
Furthermore, raising awareness through targeted marketing strategies is essential to supporting biofertilizer adoption. Marketing should educate farmers about bio-n fertilizers\u27 benefits, usage, and application, emphasizing economic advantages, soil health, and sustainability. Highlighting affordability, cost reduction, and profitability can boost adoption. Educational programs and clear communication about government subsidies are also crucial. Research findings on crop quality improvements should be used in marketing materials to provide evidence-based assurances to farmers.
In conclusion, the study highlights the need to promote biofertilizers to foster sustainable farming. The government should clarify policies and subsidies, collaborate on educational programs, and fund sustainable agriculture research. Agricultural extension services should partner with agencies and Bio-N producers for educational initiatives, field trials, and sharing success stories. NGOs should advocate for sustainable practices, educate on environmental benefits, and facilitate farmer-farmer learning. Input suppliers should ensure Bio-N availability, train staff, and offer promotions. These combined efforts can significantly boost biofertilizer adoption and sustainable farming
Effects of Culture Media and Duration on In Vitro Maturation and Production of Cỏ Goat Embryos
Get PDFThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of maturation media and duration on the in vitro maturation (IVM) of Cỏ goat oocytes for the in vitro production of Cỏ goat embryos. In Experiment 1, the highest percentage of matured oocytes and blastocyst rates were observed in the IVM medium consisting of tissue culture medium (TCM) 199 + 10% fetal calf serum (FCS) + 50 ng/mL follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) + 100 μM cysteamine + 10 ng/mL epidermal growth factor (EGF) + 100 units/mL penicillin G potassium + 0.1 mg/mL streptomycin sulphate (P \u3c 0.05). In Experiment 2, Cỏ goat oocytes were cultured in the same IVM medium for 20, 22, and 24 h, respectively. The matured oocyte and blastocyst rates of the 20-h group were lower than those of the 22- and 24-h groups (61.56% vs. 76.81% and 73.48%; 13.76% vs. 24.75% and 24.72% respectively; P \u3c 0.05), while there was no difference between the 22- and 24-h groups (P \u3e 0.05). In conclusion, the TCM 199 medium supplemented with FCS, FSH, cysteamine, EGF, and a maturation duration of 22 or 24 h are suitable for the in vitro maturation and subsequent embryo development of Cỏ goat oocytes
Surveillance of Brucella suis in pigs from selected slaughterhouses in Luzon, Philippines using serological and molecular assays
No full textBackground: One of the most significant diseases for swine, including domestic pigs and wild boars, in terms of both public health and economics is brucellosis. This disease, which is brought on by the bacterium Brucella suis (B. suis), is regarded as a zoonotic disease that can spread from animals to humans and is a serious public health risk. The most recent report on the prevalence of swine brucellosis in the Philippines was published in the 1990s, thus there is neither updated nor recent data available to the public. Thus, the purpose of this investigation was to detect B. suis in pigs in selected provinces in Luzon, Philippines using qPCR and ELISA. Methods: To detect B. suis antigen and antibody, 115 blood samples of pigs from 15 slaughterhouses spread across 8 provinces were gathered and subjected to qPCR and ELISA. Results: B. suis DNA and anti-Brucella LPS antibodies were not detected in any of the 115 blood samples as demonstrated by qPCR and ELISA tests, respectively. Conclusions: In general, this study\u27s findings offered updates on the B. suis infection status, indicating that pigs from the 8 provinces of Luzon, Philippines, did not have the B. suis chromosome 2 biovar 1 gene in their blood
Toxocara vitulorum-eimeria spp. mixed infections and treatment in a 44-day-old Anatolian black calf
No full textBackground: Toxocariasis and coccidiosis are common parasitic diseases affecting both farm animals and various species. While clinicians frequently diagnose these diseases in calves, mixed infections of toxocariasis and coccidiosis are exceptionally rare. Methods: A 44-day-old Anatolian black breed calf, presenting with tonic-clonic convulsions and abdominal pain, underwent laboratory and ultrasonographic examinations. Results: The laboratory findings indicated leukocytosis and hyperlactatemia in the calf. Ultrasonographic examination demonstrated intestinal dilatation and decreased motility. Stool analysis confirmed the presence of both toxocariasis and coccidiosis. Treatment with albendazole and toltrazuril led to the calf\u27s recovery without complications. Conclusions: This case report represents the first documented instance detailing laboratory and ultrasound findings, as well as the treatment outcomes, of a calf concurrently afflicted with toxocariasis and coccidiosis. The successful treatment with albendazole and toltrazuril suggests potential therapeutic efficacy against mixed infections of these parasitic diseases
Supply Chain Analysis of Dried Salted Fish or Tuyo (Sardinella Fimbriata) in Orion, Bataan
No full textIn the Philippines, the average annual fish consumption per person was about kilograms, with 4 kg being dried fish (BFAR, 2015). Approximately 30% of the 431,2 tons of fish were processed into products like dried salted fish (Guevara & Camu, 1 BFAR, 2017). The total value of fisheries production in 2022 was Php 0.26 trillion, wi Central Luzon contributing 17% of the total, making it one of the leading producers in Luzon (PSA). Bataan was known for producing the highest volume of smoked and dried fish in the region (BFAR, 2018).
In Bataan, the town of Orion, located 12 kilometers from Balanga, the capital of Bataan, was the leading producer and famous for its processed fish products, includi Tuyo (dried Sardinella fimbriata) and Tinapa (smoked fish), which were also town’s One Town, One Product (OTOP), with tuyo being the most profitable among t two (De Leon, 2022).
The general objective of the study was to evaluate the supply chain performance of the Tuyo key players in Orion, Bataan. Specifically, the research aimed to describe the key players in the Tuyo supply chain, map the supply chains/ networks in tuyo, evaluate the production performance in terms of efficiency, supply chain strength customer responsiveness, determine the challenges at each supply chain level, and formulate strategies to address these challenges and recommend solutions.
The supply chain analysis of dried salted fish (tuyo) in Orion, Bataan involved crucial key players, including fishermen, processors, traders, wholesalers, and retailers. In this study, 100 respondents were interviewed from various roles within the supply chain, providing insights into the industry\u27s dynamics. The transformation process began with fresh Sardinella fimbriata, which was then converted into tuyo, traversing through 13 different chains, which can be classified into three, with each key player adding value at distinct stages. This intricate network underscored the collaborative efforts required to bring tuyo from the fishing grounds to the market.
The 13 chains were classified as (1) chains starting with fresh Sardinella fimbriata, or those which start from fishermen without the presence of Fishermen/Processors Processors/Traders, (2) chains with Processors/Traders, and (3) chains with Fishermen/Processors. Among all the chains, chain 13 has the shortest and fastest information, product and financial flow since it only comprises Fishermen/Processor to Consumer interaction.
Apart from the dried salted Sardinella fimbriata, fishermen also marketed fresh forms of this fish. During the peak season, from June to October, they sold it at Php 45.00 per kilogram and at Php 65.00 per kilogram during the lean season, from November to January. Fishermen could accumulate 300 kilograms if fresh Sardinella fimbriata during the peak season, while only 15 kilograms during the lean season, with production costs of Php 1.67 per kilogram and Php 33.33 per kilogram, respectively, for the two seasons. The net margin during the lean season was very low due to the high cost of gasoline for their boats engines. Processed tuyo, on the other hand had a much higher value, set at Php 150.00 per kilogram during the peak season and Php 200.00 per kilogram during the lean season, with the net margins of Php 88.92 and Php 114.72, respectively, for the processors. Processors/Traders had the highest net margins, with Php 133.99 and Php 158.05, respectively. Additonally, Fishermen/Processors also produced dried salted fish and gained significantly higher returns compared to fishermen, with Php 127.32 per kilogram during the peak season and Php 149.72 per kilogram in the lean season. Their net margin was twice as much as the fishermen\u27s, but it could not go further as they still relied on traders to buy their products, similar to the processors.
While the chains with Fishermen/Processors resulted in the fastest and shortest information flow, the chains starting with fresh Sardinella fimbriata recorded the most product traversing the key players since processors in these chains are the only producers of gourmet tuyo and bagoong. Processors/Traders were focused on producing a higher volume of processed tuyo to take advantage of their storage facilities. The said chains, specifically chains 1 and 2, also recorded the highest cost incurred and expense cost due to the presence of all the key players in these chains.
In terms of the production costs, gasoline garnered the largest percentage for the fishermen, while the cost for the main input or the fresh fish took the highest portion for production in the case of the processors. Transportation cost were the main problem of traders and wholesalers, while retailers incurred their highest cost in rent.
For the profitability analysis, Processors/Traders have the highest net return per kilogram with Php 158.05/kg during the lean season, followed by Fishermen/Processors with Php 149.72/kg, but for the overall profit, the Fishermen/Processors have the highest due to the volume of tuyo they can produce. Processors/Traders on the other hand, have more stable income due to their storage facilities which helped them significantly during the rainy season, avoiding tuyo spoilage.
The identified problems, issues and weaknesses of Orion\u27s Tuyo supply chain include: lack of government support, bad weather conditions, concentration of fishing grounds, limited research and development programs and key players\u27 lack of literacy to formal credit. Upon identifying the issues, problems and constraints in the Supply chain of Tuyo in Orion, the following recommendations were formulated. For the fishermen, they should invest in bigger boats, as bigger boats acquire almost twice as much as normal ones. and engage actively in processing tuyo to take advantage of the low cost of primary input. For the processors, engage in product development and invest in research and development. For the traders and distributors, focus on capacity utilization, backward integration and invest in regulatory compliance. Lastly, thee government should help the key players in complying with the national and international standards regarding processed fish products, to promote improvement of the whole industry and possible exportations in the future
Agrobacterium-mediated Genetic Transformation and Plant Regeneration from Cotyledons in Philippine Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) Acc. ‘PH 11424’
No full textEggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is one of the most important vegetables grown and consumed in the Philippines hence, continuous breeding programs are vital to maintain the supply of this economically important crop. This study demonstrates the first successful Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation and plant regeneration of the Philippine eggplant cultivar ‘PH 11424’, also known as ‘Mistisa’. Cotyledons from 2-wk-old seedlings were used as explants, which were transformed with disarmed Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA4404 harboring a binary vector for CRISPR/Cas9 expression and hygromycin phosphotransferase (HPT), an antibiotic selection marker. Growth of shoot primordia from the agro-infected explants was observed during selective culture with 7.5 ppm hygromycin, which indicated an initial success in transformation. The putatively transformed shoot primordia were then transferred to an elongation medium. The elongated and hygromycin-resistant shoots were allowed to develop roots in hormone-free medium supplemented with hygromycin, and subsequently acclimatized under greenhouse conditions. The entire process took at least 5 – 6 mo. Of the total 585 agro-infected explants, the regeneration efficiency of rooted shoots was 4.6%. Successful transformation was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of Cas9. Acclimatized plants tested positive for both transgenes. The surviving transgenic eggplants successfully reached maturity, flowered and set seed. These results demonstrate a working Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and plant regeneration protocols using cotyledons as explants in a Philippine eggplant genotype. These biotechnology tools are critical for the successful application of genetic engineering (GE) and new breeding techniques (NBTs) in eggplant crop improvement
Feeding Behavior of Sweet Potato Weevil, Cylas formicarius (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Brentidae) on Three Sweet Potato, Ipomoea batatas L. Cultivars Grown in Tarlac, Philippines
No full textSweet potato is grown in tropical countries for its edible tubers, which have become an essential food source. It is usually propagated through vine-cutting, which can be obtained from harvested plants or nurseries intended for cutting production only. The recurrent use of vines may cause increased weevil infestation. The crop is known to be infested with insect pests. More importantly, the sweet potato weevil, Cylas formicarius, targets the tubers, thus, causing the economic losses. Sweet potato farmers in Tarlac claim that only one sweet potato cultivar is being attacked by C. formicarius, however, it was found in this experiment that the feeding and feeding behavior of the weevil were not affected by the cultivar provided, such that there is no significant differences observed in the average amount of tubers consumed by both male and female feeding time and degree of damage