A Documentation of Natural Farming System (NFS) in Benguet, Philippines.

Abstract

The study was conducted to document the Natural Farming System (NFS) in Benguet. Specifically, it aimed to chronicle the history of NFS in Benguet; characterize the NFS practices in Benguet in terms of farming concoctions made and methods used; determine the farmers’ experiences in practicing NFS in Benguet; describe the activities and strategies of farmers in promoting NFS; identify the challenges encountered in promoting NFS; and produced a leaflet and booklet. A total of 12 individuals were involved in the study. Engr. Tinoyan was the sole key-informant. He was interviewed personally to gather information on how the practice started in Benguet. Korean Natural Farming or known today as NFS is the kind of Natural Farming introduced to the Province of Benguet through the initiative of Engr. Erio “Eric” Tinoyan, Magsasakang Siyentista in Cordillera Region. However, NFS was only integrated in the practice of organic farming that is why there were no farmers who are pure NFS farmers in Benguet. Despite having organic farming as their practice, NFS was still integrated in the farming practice of the farmers because it manifested good results in their farms. The concoctions known to the farmers are as follows: IMO, FPJ, FFJ, LABS, OHN, FAA, Calcium Phosphates, and Natural Attractant for Flying Insects, Seeds and Seedling Treatment, Bukonut Vinegar, and Sunflower Compost Liquid. Moreover, good results that manifested in the farms of the farmers are as follows: effective in killing pests and diseases; effective in developing the growth and productivity of the crops; good health; lesser expenses; easier job; and higher income. Further, the activities and strategies of farmers in promoting NFS are as follows: seminars; workshops; trainings; demonstrations; and field visits. Lastly, the challenges encountered of the farmers in promoting NFS are as follows: the unacceptability of other farmers in the concept of fermentation; the lack of materials and ingredients in the place of implementation; and lack of time. The study concluded the following: only few Benguet farmers practice NFS; Benguet farmers practice NFS in complementation to organic farming; Benguet farmers adapt the two methods of NFS which are the fermentation and the nutritive cycle theory due to the good results it manifested in their farms; farmers perceived NFS as beneficial in terms of its good effect to the environment, health, plants, and income; the activities and strategies of farmers in the promotion of NFS in Benguet are based on the willingness of the farmers to learn the practice, the appropriateness of the practice in the farms of the farmers, and curiosity of other farmers and visitors; and the challenges encountered in the promotion of NFS in Benguet dealt with personal motivation, interest, and resources.