Pinoy Farmer

Corruption in the Philippines: Its Deep Impact on Agriculture Corruption has long been a pressing issue in the Philippines, affecting various sectors of society and the economy. Among the industries hit hardest is agriculture —a vital sector that supports millions of Filipino farmers and provides food security for the entire nation. Despite significant government programs and funding allocations, the sector continues to struggle due to systemic mismanagement, patronage politics, and lack of accountability. In this blog, we’ll explore how corruption impacts agriculture in the Philippines , why farmers remain poor despite billions in agricultural budgets, and what reforms are needed to create lasting change. The State of Philippine Agriculture Agriculture contributes about 9–10% of the country’s GDP and employs more than 20% of the labor force , according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Yet, the sector lags behind its neighbors in productivity and modernization. Farme...

 In the heart of the Philippine countryside, where the earth is rich and the sun generously beams its light, thousands of Filipino farmers rise with hope each morning. For many, onion farming is not just a livelihood — it’s a heritage, a life’s work cultivated through generations. But today, that heritage is under siege, not by nature, but by the tides of imported goods. The Life of an Onion Farmer Growing onions in the Philippines, especially in provinces like Nueva Ecija, Ilocos Norte, and Mindoro, is a labor of love. From planting delicate seeds to painstakingly nurturing crops through unpredictable weather, Filipino farmers invest months of sweat, care, and patience. Harvest time, typically from December to April, should be a season of reward. However, the reality for many farmers is far from prosperous. Production costs — fertilizers, irrigation, pesticides, and labor — have soared. Meanwhile, prices they receive for their onions often barely cover these costs, leaving farm...

Nestled in the mountainous regions of Northern Luzon, the rice terraces stand as both cultural heritage and vital agricultural systems. Built by hand and maintained for generations, these terraces showcase Filipino ingenuity and the deep bond between people and nature. Why the Rice Terraces Matter Cultural Significance: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the terraces are a symbol of ancient indigenous knowledge passed down for over 2,000 years. Sustainability: Terraced farming helps prevent soil erosion, controls water runoff, and maintains biodiversity in upland ecosystems. Food Security: These terraces support local rice production in regions where flat land is scarce. Challenges in Upland Agriculture Limited Mechanization: The terraces’ steep terrain makes it difficult to use modern farming machinery. Climate Vulnerability: Typhoons and landslides frequently damage infrastructure and crops. Youth Migration: Many young people leave farming communities, leading to fewer han...

The dry season—or summer—is a unique opportunity for farmers and home gardeners in the Philippines to grow a variety of crops that thrive under the sun. While the heat can be intense, many plants actually love the warmer weather and can produce excellent yields with proper care. Here are some of the best crops to plant during the Philippine summer: 1.  Corn (Maize) Corn is one of the most popular summer crops in the Philippines. It requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. With the right irrigation system, corn can grow rapidly and yield a profitable harvest in just a few months. 2.  Mango Known as the “king of Philippine fruits,” mangoes love the summer heat. In fact, the dry season is essential for mango trees to flower and bear fruit. Provinces like Guimaras and Zambales enjoy bumper mango harvests during this time. 3.  Watermelon Summer wouldn’t be complete without watermelons. These juicy fruits need high temperatures and lots of sunlight to ...