PAFERN Completes Documentation of Different Agroforestry Models in the Philippines

PAFERN embarked on a six-month project "Characterization and Assessment of the Different Agroforestry Models in the Philippines". This study aimed to: a) analyze the economic and financial viability of the different agroforestry systems that are being practiced in selected areas in the Philippines; and, b) assess their impact on the environmental, biophysical and socioeconomic conditions of the farmers and the farming community.

The four agroforestry models that were included in the study are the following:

1. Fruit tree-based agroforestry/multistorey system in Nagcarlan, Laguna. This model represents a medium-scale agroforestry farm which integrates high value fruit trees, cash crops and vegetables. This model provides that agroforestry does not only provide economic and environmental benefits to the upland and marginal areas, but to the lowland areas, as well.
2. Cutflower-based agroforestry/multistorey system in Nagcarlan, Laguna. This model represents a small-scale agroforestry farm, which integrates cutflower, particularly Anthurium, in the agroforestry system. The fruit and forest trees provide partial shade to the Anthurium. This model shows anb innovative way of making full use of the shaded area, which may not be suitale to other vegetable and cash crops.
3. Alley Cropping in Argao, Cebu. This model represents a small-sale agroforestry farm, which were established primarily for subsistence, although, surpluses are sold to nearby markets. The crop components include vegetable, root crops, fruit and forest trees, and forage species (as hedgerows). The forage species were intentionally integrated in the farm as source of feed for the livestock.
4. Complex/Integrated Agroforestry System in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley. This model represents a large-scale agroforestry farm. The farm is considered as a family enterprise, and growing of crops was purposely made on a commercial level. The highest portion of the farm is planted to dipterocarp species of timber, while the lower portion is planted to high-value fruit trees such as rambutan, durian, cacao, and lanzones. The agroforestry farm has been a family business for more than a decade, and has been providing employment to some members of the community.

The detailed results of the study will be posted soon. This project was carried out with fund support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) through the Southeast Asian Network for Agroforestry Education (SEANAFE).