Agroecosystem analysis of Sitio Bucog, Brgy. Balite, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro

Date

12-2006

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Major Course

Major in Agronomy

College

College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Ma. Lourdes S. Edaño

Abstract

The farm practice was conducted in Sitio Bucog, Barangay Balite, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro during the months of October to November 2003. The objectives of the study were to analyze and document the existing agroecosystem, and identify the needs, potential and problems of the Mangyans in the community.

The agroecosystem components such as biophysical, socio-cultural, political and economic aspect were used in assessing ways to improve the current situation of the study area. The Mangyans are semi-nomadic and have practiced slash and burn farming for a long time. Their Kaingins are planted with different species and varieties of crops such as rice, sweet potato, cassava, gabi and fruit trees. With their average crop area of 0.5 ha. Their farms are highly diversified to ensure continuous harvesting throughout the year. Most kaingins are rainfed, thus farm activities coincide with the onset of wet season. However, some root crops and fruit trees are maintained and harvested during wet and dry season. Although activities are focused during the wet season, the Mangyan still find ways of augmenting income and food supply during dry season by working for the Tagalogs as farm laborers and selling hand-women products from rattan.

Some of the technical problems identified are soil erosion, loss of soil fertility, insufficient water resources, lack of farm implements and facilities, and the need for technical support. Thus, use of crops adaptable to acidic soils, construction of natural waterways and small pond reservoir, mulching, cover cropping, composting in use of organic fertilizer were some of the practices recommended to minimize the impact of the said problems.

Common social problems are poor health and illiteracy. Somehow, these problems are partially addressed by the Ebenezer Gospel Church through its literacy program and health assistance. In addition, volunteer teachers can be asked to teach short courses on basic reading and writing. Further studies should be done to fully understand the indigenous practices. A deeper and thorough analysis of the indigenous knowledge of the Alangan Mangyans with emphasis on their beliefs and farming practices should be the foundation in formulating recommendations.

Language

English

Location

UPLB Main Library Special Collections Section (USCS)

Call Number

LG 993.5 2006 A42 W55

Document Type

Thesis

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