Post-harvest losses of rice farmers in Southern Mindanao

Abstract

This study aimed to assess postharvest losses among rice farmers in Region 11, Philippines. It focused on examining the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers, their postharvest management practices, the causes and extent of postharvest losses, and identifying factors that influence these losses. The ultimate goal was to develop strategic actions to reduce and manage postharvest losses. A multi-stage sampling design was employed to select 440 rice farmers from various municipalities in four provinces within the region. The research design utilized a descriptive-causal approach, and data were collected through interviews with the farmers. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were employed to analyze the data. The study found that the majority of farmers were middle-aged males with an average of 25.3 years of farming experience. They primarily operated small-scale farms. Postharvest losses were substantial, particularly during harvesting, attributed to socio-cultural, biological, mechanical, and climatological factors. Approximately 42.2% of postharvest loss variation was explained by factors including monthly income, total rice area, postharvest training, and the availability of a threshing machine. Based on the findings, the study recommends increased participation in farming activities among household members, more significant investment in postharvest training, and efficient postharvest management practices for larger-scale operations. Future research should explore factors with nonsignificant effects on postharvest losses. Keywords: postharvest loss, socio-economic factors, multiple linear regression, postharvest management practices, postharvest training, threshing machinery, Philippines