Gendered Division of Labor in Traditional Upland Rice Farming Systems in the Selected Municipalities of the Third Congressional District of Iloilo

Abstract

The traditional upland rice cultivation system in the Philippines demonstrates an equilibrium among cultural traditions, ecological adaptation, and gendered divisions of labour. The study was conducted in the five municipalities of the Third District of Iloilo, where TURVs are farmed, preserved, and connected to their culture. Using a structured criteria and guidelines, on-farm interviews and community consultations, and triangulations were employed from (n = 1,935) respondents. A colour-coded matrix was integrated (men’s activities presented in blue cells, women’s activities in yellow cells, the joint-task-sharing indicates green cells, and violet cells – not applicable activities). Findings indicated distinct gender-related clusters of labor specialization. Land tillage, fertilization, and pest control remain significantly more male-dominated because they are physical and technically demanding. By contrast, seed system management, sowing or planting, weeding, harvesting, and postharvesting are shared primarily by both genders. Women are active participants in seed selection, storage, processing, and, in some instances, sales and marketing: They actively participate in actions which contribute to household food security and cultural persistence. Evidence of inadequate or informal marketing of upland rice has been drawn from this research and indicates that TURVs depend on subsistence and serve to constitute community life. Gender inclusivity needs to be emphasized and integrated into agricultural research, development planning, and improvement plans. Equitable participation not only reinforces household resistance but also maintains indigenous means of knowledge systems and culturally appropriate interventions suitable to the daily life situations of upland farmer families.