Socio-Economic Effect of Farmer Field School (FFS) on Rice Farmers in the Municipality of Pres. Manuel A. Roxas, Zamboanga Del Norte

Abstract

Rice (Oryza sativa) is the primary staple food and an important agricultural commodity in the Philippines. This study assessed the socioeconomic effects of the Farmer Field School (FFS) program on rice farmers in the Municipality of Pres. Manuel A. Roxas, Zamboanga del Norte. A descriptive-quantitative research design was employed, involving 89 registered rice farmers who had completed FFS training in three purposively selected barangays. Data were collected using a structured survey questionnaire and analyzed through frequency counts, percentages, weighted means, a paired-samples t-test, and Somers’ D. The findings revealed that most respondents were older adults, female, married, elementary graduates, and primarily dependent on farming for their livelihood. The FFS technologies had an overall very large perceived effect on farming practices (AWV = 4.43), particularly in growing healthy seedlings, nutrient management, pest management, and harvest management. The program also produced a very large social effect (AWV = 4.40) and a large economic effect (AWV = 4.13), enabling farmers to better provide for their families’ education, nutrition, health, sanitation, housing, and other essential needs. Farmers’ average monthly income significantly increased from ₱4,797.75 before the program to ₱8,370.14 after its implementation (p < .001). Moreover, FFS technology transfer was positively and significantly associated with socioeconomic improvement (Somers’ D = 0.257, p = .003). The study concludes that the FFS program effectively strengthens farmers’ agricultural knowledge and practices while contributing to improved income and household well-being. Its continued implementation and expansion, supported by regular follow-up training and agricultural extension services, are therefore recommended.