Indigenous Knowledge System (IKS) in Crop Farming in Albay Province, Philippines: An Analysis for Validation Studies

Publisher: Bicol University PDF

Abstract

The study aimed to identify, analyze and recommend validation studies for the indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) in crop farming in the province of Albay. Indigenous knowledge in farming refers to the knowledge that has been developed in the community which resulted from the farmers’ farming practices and experiences through time. Studying the IKS in farming can provide wider perspective and understanding of a particular community’s culture and history of survival in terms of food production. Validation studies may be conducted to confirm efficacy and then package IKS-based technologies that may contribute to sustainable crop production. Purposive sampling of sites and respondents was adopted since Albay has already been influenced by modern agriculture. Sets of data were gathered from the different sites in the province through focus group discussion (FGD) involving the most senior as well as long time farmers in the FGD sites. The data were used to analyze the validity of the IKS based on known scientific principles for qualitative discussion. The same data were used to recommend experimental research for the purpose of validation and technology packaging. IKS on planting, flower and fruit set induction, sex expression manipulation, pest and disease management and seed storage were identified. Some of the identified IKS can possibly be validated through experimental research but some can be considered superstitious. Moreover, many of the IKS are no longer practiced because of the influence of modern agriculture.