Roles of Various Family Member in Abaca Production in Baganga, Davao Oriental

Abstract

Women play a vital yet often underrecognized role in the rural economies of developing countries, particularly in agriculture, which is traditionally viewed as a male-dominated field. This study focused on gender roles in abaca farming, aiming to analyze how family members—husbands, wives, and children—contribute to production and the household economy. This study was conducted in Barangay Mikit and Barangay Campawan in Baganga, Davao Oriental. The research involved 42 abaca farmers selected based on their livelihood. Data were collected through a survey questionnaire translated into the local language. The respondents ranged in age from 18 to 62, with the largest group between 34 and 41 years old. Households had slightly more males (54%) than females (46%). Educational attainment was generally low, with 67% having only elementary education, reflecting limited financial capacity and access to schooling. Most respondents (95%) owned their homes, and 29% cultivated 5–6 hectares of land, often inherited. Labor in abaca farming was divided among family members. Husbands take primary responsibility for planting and harvesting due to the physical demands of these tasks. Wives assisted mainly in maintaining the farm, such as clearing weeds, while children provided additional support when needed. Marketing activities involve minimal participation from wives and children. Overall, the study highlights that although men dominate key farming tasks, the contributions of women and children were significant and essential. Their involvement supports productivity and strengthens the family’s economic stability, emphasizing the need for greater recognition of their roles in abaca farming.