ABSTRACT
This study examined the role of Local Government Units (LGUs) in agricultural development and their impact on agricultural productivity in the Bondoc Peninsula, Quezon Province. Addressing a research gap in the consolidation and analysis of LGU-led agricultural governance in the district, this study explored how governance practices, program implementation, and institutional challenges influence farming outcomes. Specifically, it investigated stakeholders’ perceptions of LGU support, agricultural programs' effectiveness, and productivity barriers. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the research gathered quantitative data from 399 farmers who were members of accredited agricultural associations and participated in LGU-led programs. Qualitative data were collected through key informant interviews with local officials, municipal agriculturists, agricultural extension workers, and focus group discussions with farmers. Quantitative analysis involved descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were examined through thematic analysis and triangulated across data sources. Findings revealed that although most farmers received support, only a few experienced significant productivity improvements. LGU interventions were often irregular, misaligned, and lacked participatory planning. Major challenges included climate change, funding limitations, and an inadequate workforce. The study concluded that while LGUs play a crucial role in rural agricultural governance, institutional reforms are needed to improve program continuity, stakeholder engagement, and resource utilization. Recommendations include youth engagement programs, digital farmer profiling, climate-smart agriculture strategies, and localized monitoring systems. These findings contribute empirical evidence to guide policy, inform governance reforms, and support future research on decentralized agricultural development in rural areas of the Philippines.
Keywords: local government units, agricultural governance, agricultural productivity
https://doi.org/10.65494/pinagpalapublishing.71
