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Asian Journal of Agriculture and Development (AJAD) - Call for papers!

Empowerment Attempts: The Case of Catanduanes Upland Development Project at Genltllgan, Baras, Catanduanes

(Philippines), Master of Management in Development Management (University of the Philippines Los Baños)

Field Study Abstract:

 

The study documented the effectiveness of the Catanduanes Upland Development Project (CUDP) management goals. The factors that contributed to upland people empowerment were identified and explained. The level of empowerment achieved in the project area was described and problem areas and prospects for upland people empowerment were also identified.

Both structured and unstructured interview schedules were used in primary data gathering. The respondents included project implementors and 50 participants. Participant-observation was used to gather data, which were presented in descriptive form.

Results showed that participants valued development in terms of economic advancements. The project had an impact on productivity as shown by the upward trend in income, farm development, and livelihood projects. Sustainable upland farming technologies were the support activities that were most appreciated. Thus, technical support must be sustained even when the project is phased-out.

Almost all the respondents (98%) said they could continue what CUDP had started in the area (i.e., upland resource protection and conservation and maintenance of infrastructure).This showed that the project had encouraged the values of self-reliance and independence among the participants. However, it was observed that these values also caused a negative attitude toward loan availment.

The government showed its commitment to this project despite meager resources. The project was able to introduce change in the uplands because of its dedicated personnel and responsive structure and policies.