Gender-responsive Knowledge Management Strategies for Vegetable Farmers of Atok, Benguet , Philippines

Authors

• Marianne R. De Luna, University of the Philippines Los BañosFollow
• Farawyn E. Sarmiento, Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST–PCAARRD)

Publication Date

9-1-2026

Abstract

Knowledge transfer in Philippine vegetable production often follows centralized pathways that neglect gendered roles, perpetuating productivity gaps. This study evaluated gender-responsive knowledge management pathways and technology adoption among smallholder vegetable farmers in Atok, Benguet, Philippines. Using a mixed-methods approach combining household surveys (n = 85), Social Network Analysis (SNA), vignettes, and key informant interviews, data were disaggregated by sex to map institutional disparities. Results showed that while women farmers demonstrate higher college completion rates (29%), men farmers cultivate larger average plots (0.57 vs. 0.37 ha), have higher off-farm income, and enjoy greater irrigation access (70.69% vs. 59.26%). Additionally, women derive 94% of their total income from vegetable farming, further increasing their economic vulnerability. Statistical results also indicated that the sociodemographic characteristics of respondents were generally comparable across genders. While the use of springs, rivers, and streams as a drinking water source differed significantly between male and female respondents, there were no statistically significant differences observed between women and men farmers’ responses in farming practices. These findings suggest that respondents employ broadly similar farming practices regardless of gender. Furthermore, SNA mapped distinct knowledge ecosystems: women access diverse public-private networks, whereas men maintain a narrower, peer-to-peer network and prioritize practical advice from male extension workers. At the household level, women frequently attend local agricultural seminars but act primarily as information conduits. Final technology adoption decisions are predominantly retained by male household heads through small-scale, experiential farm trials. Ultimately, these findings imply that although extension policies are gender-neutral, traditional social norms cause an asymmetric decision-performance gap, resulting in the tokenistic inclusion of women. Closing gender gaps in upland vegetable farming requires moving beyond training attendance. Sustainable extension strategies must actively engage men in shared decision-making, leverage women’s strong institutional networks, address structural resource constraints, and deliver localized, community-based dissemination channels tailored to distinct gender roles and preferences.

Recommended Citation

De Luna, Marianne R. and Sarmiento, Farawyn E. (2026) "Gender-responsive Knowledge Management Strategies for Vegetable Farmers of Atok, Benguet , Philippines," The Philippine Agricultural Scientist: Vol. 109: No. 3, Article 8.
Available at: https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/pas/vol109/iss3/8