Enhancing productivity of Bicol [Philippines] rice farmers through integrated farming system: the Palayamanan Model

Palayamanan, a project coined from the two words 'palay' - a Filipino term for rice at any stage prior to husking and 'yaman' - also a Filipino terms which means wealth was introduced. The Palayamanan Models are composed of well-integrated components harness and maximize use of farm resources and highlights the interconnectivity between each resource and by-products in the various farming systems. Productivity of many small farmers remains low because of declining productivity of growing monocrop rice. With the increasing cost of lands and inputs and yields of inbred rice varieties reaching a plateau, the income of the farmers has increased tremendously. The income derived from growing a hectare of rice is below the poverty threshold and makes it difficult to meet the tool requirements for the farm family. There is therefore a need to promote diversified and integrated farming system to generate more income. Diversified rice-based farming systems by integrating crop production, pomology, aquaculture and waste recycling resulted in higher productivity and income that assures food security, reduced production risks and economic stability and sustainability of the farm system. The community-based Palayamanan Model Farms were piloted in seven sites nationwide representing the upland, and saline-prone areas nationwide. Each community-based model composed of a core group of 10-15 farmers, who conduct the participatory technology development. One Palayamanan Model Farm was also established in each community which served as community seed bank for planting materials and animal stocks and as learning center. A core groups of 5-10 farmers attended the farmers' field school and other capacity enhancement activities. The number of farmers increased exponentially over time. Each community-based model was provided Php 100,000 for the acquisition of farm inputs that were loaned to the farmers. The proceeds from the loan were funneled back to the project. Partnership and complimentation with 565 ECB Philipppne Army, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Agrarian Reform, Ginintuang Masaganang Ani Programs, and various LGUs [local government units] enhanced the pooling of technical knowledge and financial and physical resources in delivering services and development mechanisms to sustain gains in Palayamanan.