EFFECTS OF FARM MECHANIZATION IN FARMING AND AGRICULTURE AS EXPERIENCED BY THE FARMERS IN GAPAN CITY AND JAEN, NUEVA ECIJA

Abstract

Farmers, as key stewards of agricultural production, encounter various challenges and opportunities when adopting modern tools and machinery in their farming practices. The shift from traditional farming methods to mechanized systems represents a significant transformation that affects efficiency, productivity, and labor dynamics. Understanding the effects of farm mechanization on farmers provides insight into the complexities of this transition, particularly in both economic and social contexts. Participants were selected from Gapan City and Jaen, Nueva Ecija using purposive sampling. Data were collected through survey questionnaires accompanied by informed consent forms. Frequency counts, percentages, and thematic analysis were used to analyze and interpret the data provided by the participants. This approach ensured ethical conduct, comprehensive data gathering, and meaningful analysis. The results revealed an inverse relationship in the effects of farm mechanization between farmland owners or machine operators and seasonal or low-income farmers. While mechanization improved efficiency and productivity, its benefits were unevenly distributed among different groups of farmers. The findings showed that the income of farmland owners increased significantly due to reduced reliance on hired labor, as fewer workers were needed to operate mechanized equipment. Consequently, a smaller portion of income was allocated to labor wages. In contrast, the income and number of seasonal farmers declined due to decreased demand for manpower, resulting in job displacement. However, farmers who were able to retain their employment reported that farm mechanization reduced physical labor, minimized drudgery, and promoted better health and safety conditions. Overall, the study highlighted a growing economic polarization between wealthier farm owners and poorer laborers, while also acknowledging that farm mechanization generally aided farming efficiency and agricultural productivity.