Farmers' perception of local farmer technicians (LFTs) in rice production: The case of Mauswagon ARC Cooperative in Bonifacio, Misamis Occidental, Philippines

This study explores farmers' perceptions regarding the contributions of Local Farmer Technicians (LFTs) to rice production within Mauswagon ARC Cooperative, located in Bonifacio, Misamis Occidental, Philippines. LFTs serve as vital community resources, connecting innovative agricultural techniques with traditional farming practices. They are instrumental in advancing sustainable agricultural practices, improving efficiency, and aiding farm administration. The investigation evaluated the technical proficiency, training quality, accessibility, and impact on productivity expertise, training quality, accessibility, and impact on productivity and profitability of LFTs through interviews. The study examined the relational dynamics between farmers and LFTs, emphasizing trust, collaboration, and their influence on adopting modern methods. The results demonstrate that farmers regard LFTs as trustworthy and efficient, valuing their pest management, fertilizer application, and water conservation assistance. LFTs were recognized for linking government initiatives to the requirements of smallholder farmers. Challenges include limited access to LFT services due to budget constraints and difficulties tailoring advice to specific farmers. Given these constraints, LFTs have significantly improved rice production by increasing yields, reducing costs, and fostering collaborative learning among farmers. However, ongoing capacity enhancement and institutional support are needed to ensure LFTs stay updated on agricultural developments and guarantee long-term viability. Strengthening support systems can enhance resilience and development in rural farming communities.