Spatial Dependence of Technical Efficiency of Rice Farms in Camagong San Vicente Farmers Irrigators Association Inc., Cabusao, Camarines Sur, Philippines

Authors

• Anthony James C. Albis, University of the Philippines VisayasFollow
• Julieta A. Delos Reyes, Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, College of Economics and Management, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna
• Antonio Jesus A. Quilloy, Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, College of Economics and Management, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna
• Jaine C. Reyes, Institute for Governance and Rural Development, College of Public Affairs and Development, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna
• Valerien O. Pede, International Rice Research Institute, Los Baños, Laguna

Publication Date

9-1-2026

Abstract

This study assessed the technical efficiency of rice farms and examined how neighboring farms influence productivity among members of the Camagong San Vicente Farmers Irrigators’ Association Inc. in Cabusao, Camarines Sur, Philippines. Employing Stochastic frontier analysis and spatial econometric models, the research identified key determinants of productivity and technical efficiency. Moran’s Index and visual geospatial analysis revealed significant clustering of technical efficiency, confirming spatial dependence among farm locations. The spatial lag model was selected after robust diagnostic tests, including Lagrange multiplier tests, to capture the influence of neighboring farms on individual efficiency levels. Results indicate substantial variability in technical efficiency across farms, with clusters of high and low efficiencies associated with factors such as farmers’ irrigation access, socio-economic characteristics, and technical advisory support. Neighborhood spillover effects, as captured by the spatial lag model, emphasized the importance of geographical conditions in understanding the technical efficiency of farms. The significant spatial spillover effects suggest that technical efficiency is influenced not only by farm-level production decisions but also by conditions in neighboring farms. These findings imply that locally targeted interventions and production strategies may contribute to improving farm performance, particularly in areas showing lower productivity. By integrating advanced spatial econometric methods, the study offers a relevant framework for addressing localized challenges and advancing rice selfsufficiency in the Philippines.

Recommended Citation

Albis, Anthony James C.; Delos Reyes, Julieta A.; Quilloy, Antonio Jesus A.; Reyes, Jaine C.; and Pede, Valerien O. (2026) "Spatial Dependence of Technical Efficiency of Rice Farms in Camagong San Vicente Farmers Irrigators Association Inc., Cabusao, Camarines Sur, Philippines," The Philippine Agricultural Scientist: Vol. 109: No. 3, Article 4.
Available at: https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/pas/vol109/iss3/4