Profile of Vegetable Growers in Sto. Nino, Cagayan: An Assessment

Abstract

The study was conducted at Sto.Nino, Cagayan, Philippines from June to July 2023 to assess the profile and problems encountered by the vegetable growers. Descriptive research was adopted in the study. The researcher used the questionnaire as the main instrument in data gathering. The socio-demographic profile of vegetable grower respondents reveals a predominantly male, middle-aged, married population with a strong cultural identity and significant organizational involvement. The socio-economic characteristics of the vegetable grower respondents reveal a dedicated and primarily self-sufficient agricultural community. Result also reveals that a community of vegetable growers that relies heavily on local resources and traditional practices. The community of vegetable growers who face significant challenges in marketing, production costs, and environmental risks. While there is a sense of capital sufficiency among many respondents, the reliance on intermediaries for sales and the vulnerability to climate-related damage are concerning. The findings suggest a need for improved market access, better pricing strategies, and enhanced support for risk management to bolster the sustainability and profitability of vegetable production in this community.