Agroforestry Practices and Perceived Socio-ecological Resilience among Upland Farming Communities in Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines

Abstract

This study assessed the level of agroforestry adoption and perceived socio-ecological resilience among upland farmers in Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. It examined the socioeconomic characteristics of farmers, identified the agroforestry systems employed, and evaluated their perceived capacity to cope with environmental, economic, and social challenges. A descriptive research design was employed using a structured and validated survey questionnaire administered to 58 respondents selected through simple random sampling, and the data were analysed using descriptive statistical tools, including frequency, percentage, mean, and grand mean. The findings revealed that farmers predominantly practised homegarden, multiple cropping, and intercropping, whereas more complex agroforestry systems were less widely practised. The respondents also demonstrated a high level of perceived socio-ecological resilience, particularly in adapting to environmental changes, maintaining farm productivity, sustaining household livelihoods, and managing natural resources. These findings indicate that farmers predominantly practise diversified and livelihood-oriented agroforestry systems that are compatible with their available resources, alongside a high perceived capacity to cope with environmental change. Strengthening extension services, technical capacity-building, and institutional support may help encourage the adoption of more diversified agroforestry systems and support sustainable and resilient upland agricultural development.