Comprehensive Analysis on the Impact of Consolidated Rice Farming and Mechanization Program in South Cotabato, Philippines

Abstract

This study evaluates the Consolidated Rice Farming and Mechanization Program (CRFMP) in South Cotabato, which aims to enhance rice production through land consolidation, mechanization, and cooperative farming. The research study used a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, to examine the socioeconomic, technical, environmental, and institutional constraints that limit program implementation and farmer participation. Anchored on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and Goldratt's Theory of Constraints, the study finds that CRFMP has increased rice yields from 3.68 to 8.1 metric tons per hectare. However, institutional fragmentation, limited credit access, inadequate mechanization infrastructure, and weak cooperative structures hinder optimal outcomes. Financial constraints remain essential, with nearly half of farmers earning below PHP 10,000 monthly, limiting investments in modern technologies. Mechanization remains cooperative-dependent, with 87.5% of farmers lacking machinery ownership. Environmental bottlenecks, including poor irrigation, asynchronous planting, and soil degradation, further hinder productivity. Correlation analysis reveals strong positive relationships between Maslow's needs and farmer satisfaction, with Safety Needs (r = 0.88) and Physiological Needs (r = 0.87) as key predictors. Farmer attitudes significantly affect CRFMP participation. A prevailing risk-averse outlook, shaped by institutional uncertainty and fluctuating farm incomes, limits mechanization adoption and cooperative engagement. Older farmers (86% of participants) resist new technologies, while younger, educated farmers show openness to innovation but face capital and institutional barriers. Despite aspirations for growth and self-actualization, as reflected in the study's high self-actualization scores, systemic constraints and fragmented trust within cooperatives limit program ownership and engagement. The findings focus on implementing integrated reforms addressing structural barriers while encouraging behavioral shifts, confidence, and innovation-oriented mindsets to ensure CRFMP's long-term success.