Awareness Level on Farm Machinery among Rice Farmers

Abstract

The use of machinery has been adapted in various facets of agriculture as it helps to improve the farm practices of the farmers. Progressively higher levels of farm machinery have been introduced into all sectors of development, with the use of IEC materials (Information, Education, Campaign), farm machinery can be more effective. Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) is a government agency engaged in postharvest research, development, and extension activities. The scope of this study is not only awareness of IEC materials but also an increase in knowledge about farm machinery promoted through IEC materials. The respondents were purposively chosen. The agricultural office of San Jose identified the two (2) top rice-producing barangays in San Jose. They are 234 farmers that are randomly selected as respondents of the study. Farming is the main source of their income and the majority of the respondents are married and the common age of the respondents are ranging from 31 to 40 years old. The awareness level of farmers in farm machinery promoted through IEC materials in selected barangays of San Jose city is enough for the information they need. More farmers receive leaflets and flyers and some of the farmers are using the machinery that is promoted and developed by PhilMech.