PAMMAKAPYA antre PAMMADDARAL (For Better and For Worse): Analyzing the Factors Influencing Rice Farmers’ Adoption and Utilization of PHilMech-Granted Farm Machinery in Barangay San Esteban, Iguig, Cagayan

Abstract

Agricultural extension services, such as providing farm machinery, are crucial for boosting productivity and rural development. To improve farm efficiency, reduce costs, and post-harvest losses, the Department of Agriculture (DA) grants farm machinery to rice farmer associations through the PhilMech RCEF Mechanization Program. However, despite these potential benefits, many rice farmers haven't fully used the machinery, limiting improvements in labor, yield, and overall productivity. This study analyzes the factors influencing the adoption and utilization of PhilMech-granted farm machinery among farmers. The researcher utilized qualitative methods such as interviews, thematic, content, and discourse analysis methods guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) Model. The findings revealed that rice farmers were more likely to adopt and utilize the machinery when they perceived it as useful, beneficial, and capable of improving their work performance. The ease of use, influence of extension workers and support services were also significant factors influencing adoption and utilization. Conversely, the challenges limiting adoption and utilization included job displacement of farmworkers, incompatibility of machinery with rice field environments, financial burden tied to using machinery, insufficient training opportunities, and the lack of readily available support services. These challenges ultimately impacted their labor efficiency, crop yield, and overall farm productivity. Finally, the study highlighted the crucial role of agricultural extension services, delivered by extension workers, in facilitating farm machinery adoption and utilization. Yet, the study identified the need for increased efforts by PHilMech and agricultural extension service providers to ensure equal access to training opportunities for women farmers.