Kaingin farming practices of Hanunuo farmers in Paclolo, Magsaysay, Occidental Mindoro, Philippines

Employing the descriptive method of research, this study was conducted to determine the "kaingin" farming practices of the Hanunuos in the indigenous communities of Magsaysay, Occidental Mindoro. A set of items was developed, validated, and used as interview schedule in gathering data from the 60 Hanunuo farmers. Focus group discussion was also conducted. Frequency and percentage distribution, standard deviation, and weighted means were used. The Hanunuo farmers were middle aged (mean=42 years old); mostly females; elementary undergraduate; affiliated to at least one organization; and had long farming experience in a 1.03-hectare "kaingin" farm acquired through Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title. Their "kaingin" farm productivity was low, mainly from rice and corn. Legumes, root crops, vegetables and fruit crops were likewise grown. Similar to other "kaingin" farmers, the Hanunuos adopted mixed or diversified cropping, direct sowing, zero tillage, no fertilization, and less use of chemicals. Harvesting was manual and they practiced sun drying and seed storage. Confronted by low yields and income, technical support services must be provided to enhance farm productivity, and crops that could maximize the potential of "kaingin" farms must be identified. They must be properly educated for the protection and conservation of upland resources.