Banana Balangon Project: An Innovation Towards the Sustainable Development of
T’boli and Ubo Farmers in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato Philippines
Otarra,Jonica1,
Center for Integrated Development and Social Development Inc.
Davao City, Philippines
ABSTRACT:
Banana Balangon Project: An innovation Towards the Sustainable Development of T’boli and Ubo Farmers in
Lake Sebu, South Cotabato Philippines, is a study that mainly aimed to explore the positive and significant changes in the lives
of indigenous people in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines as a result of their participation in the innovation-market for
organic banana. In addition, the sustainability of the project was also determined in the study. A descriptive exploratory
method was employed as a research design that utilized qualitative data measures such as individual and focus group
participatory economic valuation, participatory action research, semi-structured interviews, basic necessities survey and SD
analyzer. Sixty four (64) T’boli and Ubo farmers were the respondents of the study. In summary, there has been a shift on the
respondents’ traditional way of life from traditional hunting and gathering, and slash and burn agriculture, to having a more
stable and sustainable source of income through the project.
The study hoped to contribute to the existing literature and studies of organic agriculture and banana production in the
Philippines. Secondly, it desired to enrich the available data that would be helpful to the national government and local
government units as well as for the farmers of the Banana Balangon Project. Lastly, the study is intended to be useful for the
policy makers as to how socio-economic and cultural issues regarding organic agriculture can be addressed.
KEYWORDS: Banana, Balangon, Lake Sebu, Sustainable Development, T’boli, Ubo Tribes
1
INTRODUCTION
The Philippines is known as one of the major banana exporting country globally.[1], Most (51%) banana exports are
primarily Cavendish. More than half ( 52.51%) are exported to Japan out of the 792.14 metric tons produced for export, and
has the equivalent Freight On Board (FOB) of 167.68 million dollars. Majority of the bananas produced for export (81.54%)
comes from Mindanao [2].
Meanwhile, almost all small and large banana producers in the Philippines especially in Mindanao, rely on utilization of
agro-chemicals- the insecticides, fungicides and herbicides, among others that are used to help prevent and eliminate plant
diseases such as black sigatoka - a fungus that attacks the leaves of banana plants thereby causing the premature aging of fruits,
and Fusarium Wilt - a fungal disease known as Panama Disease (PD).
1
Author email: acinojto@yahoo.com
Studies have showed that with the intensive and continued use of pesticides over a long period of time, severe degradation
of the soil sets in. This results to erosion, then sedimentation and siltation in adjacent bodies of water that may cause
irregularly high floods during heavy rains. It would also lead to the destruction of biological diversity, particularly floral
species (useful trees and plants) and fauna [3], [4], [5], [6], [7]. Furthermore, these negative effects imply that there can be an
unsustainable future for the production of bananas.
On the other hand, experts now are exploring new methods to make the banana production sustainable. These include
organic (where no chemicals are used to produce agricultural crops), biological and tissue-cultured banana processes among
others. The government, public and private sectors in Latin America, Europe and the United States have started to utilize new
organic methods that promoted sustainable agricultural production.
Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 has been one of the promising solutions to problems of low agricultural productivity and
expensive costs of agricultural production.
In particular, the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010, Republic Act 10068 requires the Philippine government namely, to:
develop further and implement the practice of organic agriculture in the Philippines that will cumulatively
condition and enrich the fertility of the soil, increase farm productivity, reduce pollution and destruction of
the environment prevent the depletion of natural resources, further protect the health of farmers, consumers
and the general public, and save on imported farm inputs [8].
One of the few places in Mindanao where organic agriculture had become a practice is in Lake Sebu. T’boli and Ubo
farmers employ organic farming methods in growing and harvesting of balangon. Their produce is being exported to Japan
through the Banana Balangon Project, a project that started in 2005 wherein it is locally managed by Upper Allah Valley
Farmers, Inc. (UAVFI), a non-government, non-profit organization, that focuses on enhancing the living conditions of upland
dwellers, particularly the indigenous people while Alter Trade Japan (ATJ) a Japanese Banana Exporter known for its export of
organic bananas, as one of its partners, helps with the export of balangon. Moreover, the Banana Balangon Project aims to
provide a stable source of income among individuals who wanted to grow balangon in the area. The beneficiaries of the project
are the T’boli and Ubo Tribes.
However, while there is a noticeable shift towards the practice of organic agriculture, its influence on marginalized sectors
–particularly among indigenous tribes in the Philippines and the benefits that they can get from utilizing organic methods - still
remains unexplored. In addition, the dearth of related literature and studies that discuss the nature of organic agricultural
production, pose a need for the conduct of more researches in the country. Hence, the study primarily aimed to explore what
were the significant changes among T’boli and Ubo farmers since they have participated in the Banana Balangon Project and
determined its sustainability.
The study hoped to contribute to existing literature and studies of organic agriculture and banana production in the
Philippines. Secondly, it desired to enrich the available data that would be helpful to the national and local government units
as well as for farmers of the Banana Balangon Project. Lastly, the study is intended to be useful for the policy makers as to
how socio-economic and cultural issues regarding organic agriculture can be addressed.
1.2 SUBJECTS AND STUDY SITE
The locale of the study was Lake Sebu in South Cotabato, Philippines. Historically, Lake Sebu was never conquered by the
Spaniards because of the far distance of the place. Moreover:
“It is situated at the southwestern part of the province, approximately 40 kilometers from the regional center,
Koronadal City, and capital of the province of South Cotabato. Out of the total land area 89,108 hectares,
54,902(61.6%) is classified as forest land [9].
The place can be easily reached in Mindanao through Koronadal City, General Santos City and Davao City. It takes four
hours to reach Lake Sebu with the use of a car and five hours when commuting by bus from Davao City to Koronadal
City.When travelling from General Santos City, it takes two hours to reach Koronadal city and from Koronadal, it takes six
hours to reach the place when commuting.
The T’boli and Ubo Tribes constitute the majority of the population. These tribes consider their place as their
ancestral domain [10]. They were given Certificate of Ancestral Domain, (CADC) that recognizes their rights over the
land, under the Indigenous people’s Rights Act of 1997. They live through traditional hunting and gathering activities, and
by subsistence farming. Datu Ontog Logong of Lake Sebu Ancestral Domain Claim Association (LADASACA) explains
that they face issues such as the lack of skills and the lack of financial resources for the reforestation of the large “open and
denuded lands”[11]. However, they were able to reforest these lands without receiving any aid from the government.
A total of 64 T’boli and Ubo farmers were the respondents of the study. In particular, they are directly involved in
the planting and harvesting of balangon as their source of livelihood.
Respondents were from the three (3) sitios in
Barangay Tasiman, One of the 19 barangays in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato Philippines. In particular, based on the socioeconomic profile of Lake Sebu, the distance of Barangay Tasiman from Poblacion (the town proper) is approximately 11
kms. In particular, one should expect to encounter unpaved roads when going to these sitios and that it may take more than
an hour to reach the sitios from Poblacion (Town Proper).
According to to the local management of the Balangon Banana Project, in Lake Sebu, economic development is low
wherein it is attributed to the fact that there are limited sources of livelihood and that majority of the tribal families utilize
traditional tools in their farming activities. In addition, the land, where they work typically before the project started, does
not exceed more than a hectare and when it is unproductive, they seek other areas that can be useful which makes them
encroach the forest lands. Moreover, most of them utilize the forest resources to be able to meet the needed requirements in
supplying rattan industry. Aside from this, deforestation is also one of the problems that the municipality currently faces.
1.3 ETYMOLOGY: BALANGON BANANAS
Balangon or bungulan (Filipino and Cebuano, respectively), is one of the local cultivars that is grown organically in
Negros occidental, Panay, Bohol and in other provinces of the Philippines. They are grown without using synthetic chemicals
and fertilizers.
Since 1989, Balangon Bananas are exported to Japan by (ATJ) Alter Trade Japan as a fair trade banana wherein “they
are imported into Japan under the Teikei system, a Japanese guarantee scheme to ensure the integrity of organic foods without
using certification. ATJ sells mainly to consumer cooperatives” [12]. Meanwhile, in South Cotabato, it is being exported by the
TUBAGA (Tupi Balangon Growers Association), a world class balangon exporter since 2001 and recently in Lake Sebu,
balangon are grown by the farmers in the area which include the T’bolis and Ubos. At present, there is a dearth of literature
and studies done on this kind of bananas [13], [14].
Balangon used to be classified as Musa Sapientum that is now known as Musa Acuminata, belongs to the genus Musa
(Banana) that came from Southern Asia. These cultivars are triploid hybrids that have three combinations [15]. This variety of
bananas including the balangon has beneficial impact on human health.
According to the published study entitled “Chemical composition of the Musa Sapientum (peels)” [16]. The fruits of
Musa Sapientum are known to prevent anemia by stimulating the production of hemoglobin in the blood. In Kampala, Kudan,
the peels of the fruit have been utilized accordingly in creating banana charcoal which is another form of fuel that can be used
for cooking.
In addition, minerals such as calcium, sodium, iron, manganese and high potassium content were detected in the fruit.
Moreover, the high potassium content suggested that the banana peel can be useful in regulating body fluids, helping achieve a
normal blood pressure and controlling kidney failure and respiratory flow.
More research is needed to understand the nature of this variety.
1.3 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
Primarily, the study explored the significant changes among T’boli and Ubo farmers of the Banana Balangon Project
and determined its sustainability. The investigation was conducted among the three farmer sitios where the respondents and
other balangon growers have been actively involved with the production of balangon for export. The present study was
concerned with the following research questions:
Question 1: What is the Demographic profile of respondents? in terms of:
1. Age
2. Sex
3. Civil status
4. Educational attainment
5. Ethnic origin
6. Spoken dialect
7. Length of involvement since the start of the balangon project
8. Other sources of income
9. House ownership
10. House dwelling type
11. Organizational affiliation
Question 2: What are the significant economic, human and socio-cultural, political, technological, physical and environmental
changes among T’boli and Ubo Farmers of Balangon Banana Project in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, and Philippines?
Question 3: What are the successes, opportunities, weaknesses and challenges of Balangon Banana Project?
Question 4: Can the significant changes lead to sustainability of Banana Balangon Project?
1.4 RESEARCH PARADIGM
Market for
Organic Banana
Banana
Company
The Philippine
Banana Export
Industry
Local
Management of the
Banana
Balangon
Project
Economic
Human
and sociocultural
Figure 1.
T’boli and
Ubo farmers
Political
National
and
Local
Government
Technologi
cal
Physical
and
Environme
ntal
Sustainable
Development
The research paradigm in Figure1 was derived from Diffusion of innovations theory and the review of related
literature regarding sustainable development.
At the top of the paradigm, is the identified innovation-the market for organic banana. It refers to the global market
for organic banana produce. It is an innovation for the T’boli and Ubo farmers since to engage in such a market is new to them.
In addition, prior to the inception of the Banana Balangon Project, they used to live through hunting and gathering and
subsistence farming in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines. Balangon used to be a table banana among the two tribes - that
is, they only produce balangon for their own consumption. At present, more balangon bananas have been produced in their
communities that are exported to Japan.
The innovation then is being diffused through the identified four (4) communication channels. These are the banana
company, the local management of the Banana Balangon Project, the Philippine Banana Export industry, and the national and
local government.
The first communication channel is the banana company, as seen in the left side of the paradigm. It is a
communication channel since it has helped in the diffusion of the innovation. In particular, the diffusion was made possible
since the banana company has a direct access with the innovation-the market for organic banana. In the study, the banana
company helps to export the Balangon to Japan.
The next communication channel following the banana company in the left side of the paradigm is the local
management of the Banana Balangon Project. In particular, the local management of the Banana Balangon Project, as a
communication channel, has diffused the innovation among the T’boli and Ubo Farmers through its project implementation. It
is important to note that the banana company and the local management are partners in the Banana Balangon Project.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Banana Export Industry as seen in right side of the paradigm has also diffused the
innovation- the market for organic banana, through the Philippine banana export companies. Some banana companies who
used to export cavendish bananas have started to export organic bananas such as TADECO, Tri-Star Group of Banana
Companies, among others. If banana companies continue to participate in the innovation- the market for organic banana, this
implies more opportunities for the T’boli and Ubo farmers especially now that they already have a direct access to the
innovation-the market for organic banana.
The next communication channel is the National and Local Government. The National and Local government has
diffused the innovation through the implementation of Organic Agriculture Act of 2010. In addition, the National and Local
government profits from the innovation-the market for organic banana, by means of its export. In particular, the participation
of the T’boli and Ubo farmers
in the export of balangon significantly contribute to the exports of Lake Sebu and the Philippines, that helps to generate
income for the economy.
Moreover, the direct access of T’boli and Ubo farmers in the innovation-the market for organic banana is illustrated in
the paradigm with the use of a long blue two-way arrow that is placed between the market for organic banana and T’boli and
Ubo farmers. On the other hand, the short two way arrows among the variables show their interrelatedness– meaning, a change
in one variable affects other variables as well. For example, a change in the economic situation of the T’boli and Ubo farmers
is likely to cause a change in their human and socio-cultural situation.
Aside from this, the respondents’ willingness to participate in the market for organic banana may take time.
The Circles in the paradigm that are labeled as economic, human and socio-cultural,political, technological , physical
and environmental, are the significant changes among the T’boli and Ubo farmers of the Banana Balangon Project .
Meanwhile, the significant changes were also explored to know if there had been an effective and efficient diffusion of the
innovation. In the findings of the study, there is an effective and efficient diffusion of the innovation since it has brought
positive economic, human and socio-cultural, political, technological, physical and environmental changes among the T’boli
and Ubo farmers of the Banana Balangon Project. In particular, economic changes in the situation of the respondents were
determined in the study through the variables such as income before and after the start of the Banana Balangon project, number
of bunches harvested per month, total amount of harvest per month, household items that the respondents currently have,
animals tendered by the respondents, access to household facilities, access to medical services, nearest clinic that the
respondents can go, access to transportation, contribution of the balangon income in the respondents’ household.
Meanwhile, human and socio-cultural changes were determined through the variables such as attitude and values in
balangon farming, length of stay in the farm, skills and opportunity gained from balangon farming, methods used in the
planting of balangon, number of children that were sent to school, age of children who are helping in the planting of balangon.
Political changes were determined through the variables such as organization/cooperatives formed as a result of the
Balangon Banana Project and number of family members who participate in the planting of balangon. In addition, physical and
environmental changes are determined through variables such as, problems experienced in the community, primary and
secondary crops planted in the farm and attitudes/values towards the environment.
Technological changes were determined through variables such as ideas on what to do with balangon rejects. Lastly,
when there are positive significant economic, human and socio-cultural, political, technological, physical and environmental
changes among the T’boli and Ubo farmers of the Banana Balangon Project then it can lead to sustainable development, the
ultimate goal of a social system- defined as a multidimensional process of change where society is able to transform and
empower people towards attaining the desired objectives of alleviating poverty in communities and enhancing human
development for everyone so to improve quality of life without compromising the environment and its resources for the
present and future generations.
3 RESEARCH METHODS
Descriptive exploratory research has been used in both natural and applied sciences to either explore impacts or
investigate certain behaviors and certain phenomena that can be quantitative or qualitative design [17], [18], [19], [20], [21],
[22].
In the study, descriptive exploratory design and qualitative research methods were used to describe and explain the
research findings. Specifically, it has helped to know and understand the nature of the significant economic, human and sociocultural, political, technological, physical and environmental changes among the T’boli and Ubo famers of the Banana
Balangon Project.
Meanwhile, qualitative methods that were used in the form of semi-structured interviews, participatory economic
valuation, participatory action research and focus group discussion, allowed the respondents to freely share their ideas, views
and opinions and at the same time contribute valuable facts, insights and knowledge to the study. In addition, this research does
not aim to produce a statistical representative of the whole population of the balangon farmers. [23] argues that “since the
objective of qualitative research is to understand and give meaning to a social process,rather than quantify and generalize to a
wider population, it is inappropriate to use random sampling or apply statistical tests “[24] .
4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1. SIGNIFICANT ECONOMIC CHANGES
4.1.1 BALANGON AS AN ADDITIONAL SOURCE OF INCOME REGULARLY FOR THE FAMILY
Figures 2 and 3 show that majority of the respondents have begun to have regular income upon joining the Banana
Balangon Project.
In addition, Figure 3 indicates that there was a decline in the population of those who had no regular source of
income. Before the start of the Banana Balangon Project, nearly half (46.88%) had a monthly income of below 500 and when
respondents participated in the Banana Balangon project, majority (55%) of them now had a regular source of income that
mostly ranged from P1000 to a maximum of P7000.
(3)
4.68% (7) 10.94%
No income
(16) 25%
Below 500
500-699
(30) 46.88 %
(8) 12.50%
Figure 2 .
700-1,000
1,500-2500
Monthly Income of the Respondents Before the Start of the Banana Balangon Project in Pesos
Figure 2 shows that majority of the respondents before the start of Balangon Banana project have a monthly income
of below P500 (46.88%) followed by those whose income ranges from 700-1,000(25%), 500-699 (12.50%) and from 1,5002,500(4.68%) while respondents who had no income comprise a few (10.94%) of the population. Moreover, they have no
regular income before the project. Most of them who were corn producers, have to wait for 4 months before they can harvest
and sell their produce.
300-499
500-999
(7) 11%
(28) 44%
Figure 3.
1000-2999
3000-7000
(10)15%
(19)30%
Income from the Sale of Balangon in Pesos
Most of the respondents in Figure 3 (44%) have a monthly income of P1000-2999 from the sale of balangon, followed
by P500-999 (30%) , 300-499(15%) and P3000-7000(11%). In addition, more than half (55%) of the population now have a
regular source of income that ranges from P1000 and above. Moreover, Figure 3 implies that there was an improvement in
their economic situation since they have joined the balangon project. It is also important to note that all of the respondents now
are receiving a fixed amount of money from the sale of balangon.
4.1.2 CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE BANANA BALANGON PROJECT TO THE FAMILY.
Table 1.
Items that the Respondents Selected as a Result of the Contribution of the Banana
Balangon Project
Items
Mode
Agricultural products
1
House
Food
Clothes
Water
Banana
Motorcycle
Live chicken
Light
Schooling of children
Education about natural
farming system
Total number of respondents
who answered
%
Number of
buttons
47
73.43
10
1
2
3
47
53
33
73.43
82.81
51.56
10
10
10
4
5
5
7
8
1
1
24
47
20
45
48
7
3
37.50
70.31
31.25
70.31
75.00
10.94
4.69
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
*Guide:
Buttons: 10 –highest
Mode:
10-lowest
1-lowest
1-highest
Table 1 shows the results of the individual participatory economic valuation.
The mode is the rank of the
respondents’ selected items. The higher the mode means that the item was greatly contributed by the balangon project. In this
study, the respondents’ chosen items in the table also represent the main contributions of the Banana Balangon Project wherein
the respondents recognized that it had helped especially in contributing to their basic necessities and needs.
Meanwhile, on the right side, the number of buttons (or points) given by respondents indicated how significant was the
selected item for them. The higher the number of buttons (or points) would mean that the item was more significant to them.
Individual participatory economic evaluation results show that land is the first picture selected, labeled as agricultural
products (73.43%) and is given a mode of 1. Respondents have stated that since they have been involved in the Banana
Balangon Project, they have now grown different kinds of plants in their own farms. Next picture selected was house (73.43%)
with a mode of 1. Some of the respondents were able to buy more kitchen utensils now. Picture of food (82.81%) follows with
a mode 2. When the other respondents were asked why food was selected, they said that through balangon project they have
been able to eat regularly now. They explained that they used to eat once a day and, for some, twice. Another is that the
balangon gives them a regular source of monthly income. Food is followed by clothes, (51.56 %) and water (37.5%) with a
mode of 4. This means that they can now afford to spend on utilities such as water.
With a mode of 5, banana was selected by 47 respondents (73.43%). This is followed by motorcycle (31.25%), also
with a mode of 5 which suggests that the respondents now have increased their physical mobility. Live chicken (70.31%)
comes next with a mode of 7. Raising chickens provided the respondents with alternative source of income. Light (75%) given
a mode of 8, schooling of children (10.94%) with a mode of 1 and education about the natural farming system (4.69%) with a
mode of 1 complete the list.
Same results were obtained for the focus group activity via participatory economic valuation. Food, house, land,
clothes, among others were also the top pictures selected by the respondents.
Table 2.
Items that the Respondents Selected as a Result of Their Other Income Sources.
Items
Mode
Total number of respondents
who answered
House
1
22
52.38
10
Land
Food
Clothes
1
2
2
18
22
20
42.86
52.38
47.62
10
10
10
Water
Carabao/Goat
Cellular phone
2
2
3
18
14
12
42.86
33.33
28.57
5
10
10
24
20
57.14
47.62
5
10
Fruits
4
Light
5
*Guide:
Number of buttons: 10 –highest
Mode:
10-lowest
%
Number of
buttons
1-lowest
1-highest
On the other hand, another set of pictures with the same instructions were given to the respondents, using
participatory economic valuation. However, this time, it was the significant contributions of the respondents’ other source of
income/activities and not as a result of the balangon project. The response rate was less than (37.5%) the majority. Fewer items
as shown in Table 2 were selected. This implies that their other sources of income had less contributions while the Banana
Balangon project significantly helped the respondents in terms of their economic situation. Similar results were obtained from
the focus group activity of the participatory economic valuation.
4.1.3 HIGHER HARVEST MEANS AN INCREASE IN THE RESPONDENTS’ INCOME
Table 3.
Number of Balangon Bunches Harvested per Month and Total Amount of Harvest
Number of bunches harvested
No. of bunches
F
Total amount of Harvest
%
Amount
F
%
3-7
8-12
13-17
18
22
12
28.13
34.37
18.75
300-500
501-1000
1001-2500
18
19
17
28.13
29.69
26.56
18 and above
Total
12
64
18.75
100.00
2501-7000
10
64
15.62
100.00
Based on the table 3, most respondents harvested 8-12 (34.37%) bunches a month, followed by those who harvested
3-7 (28.13%), 13-17 (18.75% and 18 and above (18.75%).
Meanwhile, the equivalent amount of harvested balangon ranges from 501-1000(29.69%), followed by those that
range from 300-500(28.13%), 1001-2500(26.56%) and 2501-7000(15.62%).
It can be seen in table 3 that the respondents whose range of harvested balangon bunches is from 13 and above
(37.5%) received a higher equivalent amount which is from 1,000 above to a maximum of 7,000. It implies that more
harvested balangon bunches leads to an increase in the income of respondents.
Moreover, it is also important to note that the number of balangon bunches harvested per month will also depend on
the size of the respondents’ farm. Most of the respondents have smaller farms and one also must take into consideration that
the planting of balangon is a type of backyard farming where it is intercropped with fruits, vegetables and other root crops.
4.1.4 INCREASED PURCHASING CAPABILITY ESPECIALLY ON HEALTH SERVICES AND NEEDS
The following tables show that the respondents through their income from the Balangon Project were able to acquire
and sustain the following household items. More importantly, they have been able to have an access to the most basic health
services as shown in tables 6 and 7 Also, table 10 below shows how much of their balangon income (in percentage) has been
contributing to their household expenses.
4.1.4.1 ITEMS THAT THE RESPONDENTS’ CURRENTLY HAVE IN THEIR OWN HOMES
Table 4. Items that the Respondents’ Currently Have in Their Own Homes
Multiple Responses
Household items
F
%
Room
45
70.31
Cellphone
Radio
TV
39
20
14
60.94
31.25
21.88
Motorcycle
Boat
14
8
21.88
12.50
Majority(70.31%) of the respondents have rooms in their house while more than half of them have cellular
phones(60.94%) followed by those who have motorcycle (21.88%) ,TV(21.88%) and boats(12.50%). The findings are
parallel with the results of the participatory economic valuation that respondents had made improvements in their house
through their income in the Banana Balangon Project.
This is now supplemented by the results in Table 2(see page 81) that indicates they were able to buy some household
items aside from their own basic necessities. Moreover, the respondents now have an increased purchasing capability through
their Balangon income.
4.1.4.2 ANIMALS TENDERED BY THE RESPONDENTS
Table 5. Animals tendered by the respondents
Multiple Responses
Animal
F
Chicken
45
70.31
Pig
14
21.88
Goats
Carabao
13
10
20.31
15.63
Other animals (duck, etc.)
Fish
%
7
5
10.94
7.81
Chicken is the common type of animal that the respondents have in their own farms (70.31%) followed by those who
have pigs (21.88%), goats (20.31%), carabao(15.63%) and other animals - duck,etc. (10.94%). Small portions of the
population have fish cages (7.81%). The data results suggest that through their balangon income they were able to acquire and
maintain the animals that they currently have.
4.1.4.3 RESPONDENTS’ ACCESS TO SERVICES
Table 6.
Respondents’ Access to Household Facilities
Access to Household Facilities
F
%
Light
31
48.44
Water
28
43.75
Nearly half of the respondents (48.44%) have access to light while some of them have an access to water (43.75%).
This is a major development now that the respondents can already avail of light and water services in their homes with the help
of their income through the balangon project.
4.1.4.4 RESPONDENTS’ ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES
Table 7.
Access to Medicine
Respondents’ Access to Medicine
Multiple Responses
F
%
Health Center
44
68.75
Pharmacy
19
29.69
Hospital
6
9.38
Herbal
4
6.25
Tribal Medicine
3
4.69
More than half of the respondents (66.9%) are now able to go to their health center, followed by some of them who
can buy medicines in the pharmacy (29.69%) and those who can go to hospital (9.38%). Meanwhile, a few of the population
rely on herbal medicine (6.25%) and tribal medicine (4.69%).
4.1.4.5 AVAILABILITY OF THE NEAREST CLINIC WHERE RESPONDENTS’ CAN GO
Table 8.
Nearest Clinic
Availability of the Nearest Clinic Where Respondents Can Go
Multiple Responses
F
%
Health Center
49
76.56
Hospital (Lake Sebu)
22
34.38
Majority of the respondents now have an access to barangay health center (76.56%) followed by those who can go to
the hospital (34.38%). It would take 30 min. or more to be able to reach to the barangay health centers in sitio Butlob, Dwelod
and Camanga in Barangay Tasiman. There is only one hospital that is located in Lake Sebu and it takes more than an hour for
the respondents who are from Barangay Tasiman to go to the place. Moreover, these findings show that respondents now have
the capability to access the available health services in the community since they were able to go down from their sitios to seek
for the available medical services.
4.1.4.6 ACCESS TO TRANSPORTATION
Table 9.
Access to transportation
Habal-Habal
Access to Transportation
Multiple Responses
F
61
%
95.31
Motorcycle owned
2
3.13
Carabao
2
3.13
Jeep
2
3.13
Boat
2
3.13
Horse
1
1.56
The mostly used transportation of the respondents is the Habal-Habal (motorcycle pay for ride) (95.31%) , followed
by those who use carabao (3.13%) ,jeep (3.13) and boat (3.13%). Some of the respondents also ride a horse (1.56). The data
results imply that the respondents were able to go in different places using a transportation that they are able to pay. Moreover,
this suggests that there is an increased paying capability in terms of their access to transportation.
4.1.4.7 CONTRIBUTION OF THE BALANGON INCOME IN RESPONDENTS’ HOUSEHOLD EXPENSES IN PERCENTAGE
Table 10.Contribution of the Balangon Income in Respondents’ Household Expenses
Contribution of the Balangon Income
F
%
10-20
12
18.75
21-30
14
21.88
31-40
7
10.94
41-50
3
4.69
51-60
5
7.81
61-70
2
3.13
71-80
1
1.56
81-90
3
4.69
91-100
17
26.56
Total
64
100.00
Most of the respondents (26.56%) have stated that their income from balangon contributed an estimated percentage
of 91-100 in their household expenses as shown in Table 10. This is followed by some of them whose estimated percentage
ranges from 21-30(21.88%) and 10-20(18.75%). In addition, majority of them (a total of 59.38%) have their income from
balangon to be contributing to their household expenses at an estimated range of more than 30 percent. The findings imply that
Balangon Banana Project has significantly contributed in the household income of respondents wherein they were able to have
an increased purchasing capability which helped them to avail health and transportation services in their area. Moreover, it also
shows that their economic situation has improved especially now that they can afford to spend for the other goods and services
aside from their basic necessities and needs. It is also important to remember that the Banana Balangon project is a backyard
type of farming and is intercropped with other fruits, vegetables and other rootcrops. Also, the respondents have now
diversified their sources of income aside from balangon.
4.2 SIGNIFICANT HUMAN AND SOCIO-CULTURAL CHANGES
4.2.1 ATTITUDINAL CHANGE FROM WANDERER TO MORE FOCUSED FARMING
The respondents’ have devoted longer time at their farms now since they have been involved in the Banana Balangon
Project. This is one of the positive changes in their situation. It implies that they are taking care of the primary and secondary
crops as their source of income. Also, it is important to consider that they used to be wanderers or nomads wherein they don’t
stay in a place for too long and instead go from one place to another.
Moreover, the respondents’ house is different from where their farm can be located. Some of them also said that their
farms are near the place where they live.
Table 11 shows that majority of them (60.94%) weekly spend 5-7 days in their farm followed by those whose length of
stay every week ranges from 2-4 days (39.06%). In addition, they usually go home for lunch at around 12 noon and return to
their farm by 2 pm in the afternoon.
Table 11.
Respondents’ Length of Stay in the Farm
Respondents’ length of stay in the farm
(no. of days in a week)
F
%
2-4
25
39.06
21-30
39
60.94
Total
64
100.00
In particular, table 12 shows that most of them spend 6-9 (89.66%) hours a day in their farm followed by some (17.24%)
whose length of stay is from 3-5 hours a day.
Table 12. Respondents’ Length of stay in hours
(n=29)
Respondents’ length of stay in hours
3-5
F
%
5
17.24
6-9
26
89.66
Total
29
100.00
4.2.2 OPPORTUNITY TO PRACTICE THEIR ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILLS
4.2.2.1 SELLING OF BALANGON AND ITS REJECTS IN THE LOCALITY
An entrepreneurial skill is being developed among the respondents during their participation in the balangon
production. Based on the results of semi- structured interviews, majority have estimated that 70-82 percent (48.4%) of their
balangon produce is purchased during the harvest. This is followed by those respondents who said that 94-100 percent (21.9%)
of their yields are bought while for some, they gave a range of 83-93 percent (12.5%) as shown in Table 13.
Meanwhile, it can be inferred that more than half of them (a total of 82.8%) have sold almost all of their harvested
balangon (wherein the estimated range is not lower than 72%). It also indicates that the respondents are able to supply high
quality of organic bananas for export thereby earning modest income.
Table 13.
Estimated Percentage
Respondents’ Estimated Percentage of their Monthly Harvested Balangon for Export
F
%
50-60
7
10.9
61-71
4
6.3
72-82
31
48.4
83-93
8
12.5
94-100
14
21.9
Total
64
100.00
In addition, rejects are unavoidable since the cultivation of balangon also depends on country’s weather conditions.
Table 14.
Percentage of Balangon That is Consumed
(n=52)
Percentage of Balangon that
is consumed
Below 20
F
%
9
17.31
20-30
36
69.23
31-40
3
5.77
41-50
4
7.69
Total
52
100.00
Table 14 shows that a total of 52 out of 64 respondents have stated how many (in percentage) of their balangon are
considered as rejects. Most of them have said that their estimate is from the ranges of 20-30 (69.23%) and below 20 (17.31%).
Moreover, respondents sell their balangon rejects to local stores or to the interested buyers within Lake Sebu.
Otherwise, the balangon rejects are for their own personal consumption. Also, they have hoped for more innovations that could
help diversify their incomes. It is also important to understand that local stores and individual buyers are far from their area.
4.2.3 ADDITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS ON HOW TO PLANT BALANGON USING NATURAL FARMING METHODS
During the interview, respondents were asked if they could explain the process of planting balangon. This was asked
to know if they had gain additional skills from the project. Majority was knowledgeable about the process.
It is evident that the respondents have been able to acquire new knowledge and skills in balangon farming. More than
four methods in planting balangon were cited by the respondents. Table 15 shows the different processes done by the
respondents when planting balangon.
Table 15.Respondents’ Methods of Planting Balangon
Multiple Responses
Respondents’ Methods of planting balangon includes the ff.
F
%
Land preparation(,distributing seeds, direct planting,
64
100.00
Wait the plant to grow for at least 8-14 months
28
43.75
Harvesting
22
34.38
Cleaning once a month
21
32.81
6
9.38
make a hole in the soil for planting,)
Bayanihan system
Planting requires land preparation (100%).The next step is the distribution/planting of the seedlings or for those who
already have balangon plants, suckers are removed and then planted again. Cleaning of the plant that includes de-leafing and
round weeding is done once a month (32.31%). It takes the respondents from 8 months to as long as 14 months (43.75%)
before they can harvest the balangon bunches. The planting of balangon depends largely on the type of soil used.
Some respondents (9.38%) said that planting of the balangon employs the Bayanihan system. Bayanihan system is a
traditional Filipino cooperative value where everybody in the family or community helps in order to achieve a common goal.
In addition, all (100%) respondents use natural farming methods in planting balangon. Methods of plowing,
harrowing and harvesting, among others are used. Natural Farming methods are environment-friendly since it does not require
the use of chemicals that can result to the destruction of the environment. As a result, natural farming becomes a way of life
that prevented them from going back to their traditional activities such as slash and burn agriculture, and hunting and
gathering.
4.2.3.1 ADDITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL ON PRODUCING EXPORT QUALITY BANANAS
Upon harvest, bunches of bananas are hauled to the dropping site where it is determined whether the balangon can be
exported or not. The process of determining whether the banana can be exported or not, gives the respondents an additional
new knowledge and skill in producing export-quality organic bananas. In addition, the knowledge and skill enables them to
have the capacity to engage in the banana export process. This gives them opportunities to earn more and become as one of
the world -class organic banana exporters.
4.2.4 CONTRIBUTIONS TO EDUCATION AND CULTURE
4.2.4.1 INCREASED IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION TO RESPONDENTS AS EVIDENCED IN THE NUMBER OF CHILDREN THAT WERE SENT
TO SCHOOL THROUGH THE BALANGON INCOME
Almost all of the respondents recognize now the value of education. Most respondents based on the results of the
basic necessities survey have children who go to school.
Majority have confirmed that their life is better now with the help of the balangon project. One of the reasons they
cited is that they were able to send their children/grandchildren to school. This is one of the positive changes brought about by
the Banana Balangon Project. The respondents consider education as an important part of the development of their children.
Table 16 . Number of Children that were sent to school
F
%
Kinder/Daycare
4
8.33
High School
35
72.91
College
4
8.33
Vocational
2
2.08
Table16 shows that most of the children are highschool students (72.91%), followed by those in kinder/daycare
(8.33%), college (8.33%) and vocational (2.08%).
4.2.4.2 PRESERVING THE CULTURE OF “BAYANIHAN SYSTEM” IN THE PLANTING OF BALANGON
Table 17.
Age of Children Who Are Helping in the Planting of Balangon
(n=64)
Age of children who are helping in the planting of balangon
F
%
10-15 yrs old
26
55.32
16 yrs old-17 yrs old
21
44.68
Total
64
100.00
Aside from the respondents, the other family members help in the planting of balangon. In particular, the respondents
have said that there are also children who help in the balangon project. The age of children ranges from 10-15(55.32%) and 1617(44.68%). These children help their parents usually on weekends, when there are no classes. In particular, they help in the
cleaning of balangon and sometimes during the harvest. This in return gives the children an additional money or allowance for
school. This is what the respondents considered the “bayanihan” system in the planting of balangon.
4.2.4.3. BALANGON PROJECT INTEGRATES RESPONDENTS WITH THE DIFFERENT PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES
Most of the respondents (82.81%) have also stated that their lives are better now with the help of balangon project. The
respondents had more opportunities when their communities were known to supply balangon for export. This paved the way
for the presence of more NGO’s (Non-Governmental Organizations) and PO’s (People’s Organizations) in their area that also
contributed to their integration among different people and communities. Moreover, they have learned additional knowledge
and skills particularly through the various development and livelihood programs in their communities. Furthermore, it has
helped them to become empowered individuals in the society.
4.3 SIGNIFICANT POLITICAL CHANGES
4.3.1 PRACTICE OF SELF-GOVERNANCE THROUGH THE FORMATION OF COOPERATIVE
SOBAPRO (Soging Balangon Producers Cooperative) is one of the established organizations for balangon farmers.
Majority (35.94%) (See Table 24, Respondents’ Organizational Affiliation) of the respondents have stated that they are also
members of the organization. In particular, “the cooperative was created in 2004 and started in July 2011” (UAVDFI, 2011).
Through the cooperative, respondents and other balangon producers in Lake Sebu were able to have a strong political support
system that can provide more opportunities for growth.
7.3.2 INCREASING RESPECT AND DIGNITY OF WOMEN FOR ITS PARTICIPATION IN THE PLANTING OF BALANGON
Table 18.
Number of Family Members who participate in the Balangon
Number of family members who participate in the balangon
F
%
2-4
56
91.80
5-7
4
6.56
11 and above
1
1.64
Total
61
100.00
Majority of the respondents have stated that there are 2-4(91.80%) members of the family who help in the planting of
balangon. Others have 5-7(6.56%) and 11 and above (1.64%) These also include women.
Women now are being empowered through their participation in the planting of balangon. For the other respondents, after
the men have planted the seeds or suckers of balangon, the women take charge of the other responsibilities in the balangon
production. This is a recent development for the T’boli and Ubo culture.
Women, before the start of the balangon project, in a society where dowry is being practiced, were not given
importance. The Banana Balangon Project has helped changed how they were treated in their culture.
4.4 SIGNIFICANT TECHONOLOGICAL CHANGE
7.4.1 OTHER INNOVATIVE IDEAS AS WHAT TO DO WITH THE BALANGON REJECTS
During harvest, some standards are followed in determining which balangon bunches qualify for export and which
ones are considered as rejects. Only those that qualify for export are hauled to the packing plant. When bunches of the
balangon reach the packing plant, the cleaning of the balangon begins. They are carefully inspected again for rejects.
Rejects in the packing plant are made into balangon chips. Moreover, the balangon chips are converted into balangon
flour through the use of a machine.
Meanwhile, the flour is used for making breads and pastries. There is a balangon bakeshoppe in Lake Sebu that sells
balangon products.This is an innovation that contributed to the significant changes among respondents since they were able to
earn additional income through it.
4.5 SIGNIFICANT PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES
4.5.1 ORGANICALLY GROWN-NO CHEMICALS
Participatory action research was conducted as a focus group activity to know if balangon has negative environmental
impact that was being experienced in the community.
Participatory action research results show that the problems in the community experienced by the focus-group
participants were more related to lack of basic necessities. The primary problem that they have written on the manila paper is
their access to road. Others include access to light and water, and access to school. Some of the focus- group participants said
that they have difficulty carrying balangon bunches from the mountains because of the unpaved roads in their community. In
addition, they said that the truck (that they can use to help transport balangon to the packing plant) cannot reach their place.
Incidentally, some government programs do not reach them because they are far from the town proper.
The problems that are being experienced in the community are the responsibility of government agencies such as the
construction of cemented road.
On the other hand, the participants said that they needed more durable tools for farming because what they have now
are made of wood only and will not last for long.
On a positive note, the planting of balangon had no negative environmental impact since it does not use chemicals and
inorganic fertilizers. Natural farming methods were employed.
During discussions, the respondents revealed that some banana companies who were able to establish banana
plantations around Lake Sebu employ chemical sprays to maintain their bananas. More importantly, respondents are now
aware that chemical sprays used in the bananas have negative impact.
4.5.2 INCREASED CONCERN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE HABITAT.
Most of the respondents before the start of the balangon project had only one primary and relatively stable source of
income - corn production while balangon was only produced for their consumption. Most of them also were into slash-andburn farming, and hunting and gathering in the forest. At the start of the balangon project the respondents and other balangon
farmers in the area were given not only additional balangon plants to grow but also other crops that can help to diversify their
sources of income. Moreover, since the respondents have started to participate in the project, the planting of balangon and
other fruit bearing trees in their farms prevented them from engaging in slash-and-burn agriculture and from encroaching the
forest. Furthermore, it taught them to be concerned for the environment and the wildlife habitat.
As of now, they have planted different kinds of root crops, fruits and vegetables in their own farms. Meanwhile, the
size of their farm ranges from 1 ha. to 4 has.
Figure 4.
Respondents’ Primary and Secondary Crops
Multiple Responses
Vegetables
(8) 12.50%
Others
(4)6.25%
Fruits
(20) 31.25%
Corn and
Rootcrops
(39) 60.93%
Figure 4 shows that more than half (60.93%) of the respondents’ primary and secondary crops are corn and rootcrops
such as gabi, cassava and camote. Most (31.25%) of them have fruits like durian, marang, mangosteen, langka and rambutan in
their farms. Meanwhile, some(12.50%) of the respondents planted vegetables that include eggplant, squash, and cabbage,
among others, followed by those who own (6.25%) abaca, peanuts, bamboo and araka plants.
4.6 SUCCESSES AND OPPORTUNITIES
4.6.1 UPLIFTMENT OF RESPONDENTS’ LIVES
One of the successes of the Banana Balangon Project was an upliftment of the respondents’ lives. When respondents
were interviewed and asked about their situation now, all of them have mentioned that they had benefitted from the Banana
Balangon Project. In particular, there were significant changes among the respondents that included having regular sources of
income, home improvements and assistance in the schooling of their children, among others.
Table 19. Respondents’ Situation at Present Since They Have Been Involved with the Banana Balangon
Project
Situation since they have been involved with the Banana Balangon Project
F
%
Life is better now because of balangon project
53
82.81
Had a regular source of income
49
76.56
Home improvement and agricultural related
22
34.37
Table 19 shows the results of semi-structured interviews regarding the respondents’ situation since they have been
involved with the Banana Balangon Project.
Majority of the respondents (82.81%) have specifically stated that their life is better now because of the balangon
project. Most of them attributed the improvement of their situation to the fact that they already have regular sources of income
(76.56%), followed by those who had improvements in their homes and agricultural related improvements (34.37%).
Meanwhile, Table 20 shows the situation of the respondents before the Banana Balangon project. Out of the 64
respondents, there are 36 of them who specifically stated what their life was before the start of the Banana Balangon Project.
More than half of them (55.56%) had no regular sources of income. There are those who said that they ate only 1x/2x a day
(27.78%) and that there were no permanent buyers of their products/no help received from NGOs/GOs (16.67%).
Table 20. Life Situation before the Balangon Project
(n=36)
Situation before the Banana Balangon Project
F
%
No regular source of income
20
55.56
Eat only 1x a day/ 2x a day
10
27.78
No permanent buyer of products/no help received from NGOs/GOs
6
16.67
Total
36
100.00
Some of the positive changes in the lives of the respondents that they stated during the semi structured interview are
the following:
“Our life now is more okay compared before because there is help like the
balangon project, NGOs/GO’s they
help the community.”
“In the present time, there are many sources of income like the balangon project that has helped us. Before, no
company has entered our community.”
Others include:
“The Balangon project has helped in the schooling of my child now whereas before I entered, I was doing
nothing.”
“Before the Balangon project, I can only eat twice a day, now that there is balangon, I can eat thrice a day.”
Meanwhile, another respondent stated that:
“I have no money before the Balangon Project started; my farming tools came from balangon”
Also, some of the respondents noted how they find the monthly harvest of balangon:
“it is more okay that there is balangon because it is a relief for the family since the harvest is weekly, not for
longer months.”
“it is more okay to plant and wait for the harvest of balangon.”
4.6.2 PEOPLE EMPOWERMENT
The respondents are already empowered given the knowledge and awareness that they know particularly when it
comes to the topic of organic and inorganic bananas. When asked about their views about the market for organic bananas,
focus group discussion reveals that they are already aware of the benefits of growing organic bananas. Moreover, during the
focus group discussion an observation among the respondents was that one can sense their unity as an Indigenous tribe. When
focus group questions were asked, everyone listens and agree to what one is saying and these are supported by their fellow
respondents.
The following were some of their views about the market for organic bananas and the Banana Balangon project:
“it is good but sometimes there are a lot of rejects… that is our problem where will we sell our rejects”.
“The organic banana is good but they have a caliper that measures the banana, if it is under the measurement, it
cannot….it will be rejected. There is a market because the price of the banana is expensive when bought. 95 centavos
but they deduct the buying of trees that is why it is only 75 centavos that goes to them.”
Another respondent expressed her view about the banana companies who have plantations which everybody in the
group concurs.
“We view them as part of high class society because they have plantations and they have lots of money but we will
not disturb them since we have already earned money through our bananas and we have healthy bananas. It has no
chemicals. Their bananas are only owned by one person but we have our personal ownership with our bananas.”
The discussion leads moreover to an awareness of the respondents with regard to their bananas. Another view is the
following:
“We have healthy bananas and you will not get sick, not like ***** (a banana plantation company), they use
chemicals (in their banana) through spray but we do not use it here. We have shovel, bolo, (farming tools used in
balangon), we do round weeding with the banana plants that is the reason why the growing of the banana is beautiful
and we are thankful that there is a balangon project here.”
4.7 WEAKNESSES AND CHALLENGES
4.7.1 MARKET DRIVEN BALANGON
The respondents’ income is dependent upon the demand of the balangon for export. The more demand there is for the
balangon, the more income opportunities for the respondents. Conversely, the low demand for their balangon means a decline
in their income level.
4.7.2 PRONE TO BANANA DISEASES
One of the weaknesses that the respondents face right now is in the process of planting the balangon. Balangon, like
other bananas, is also prone to diseases such as black sigatoka, diamond spot, bunchy top and yellow sigatoka, among others.
This is one reason that the respondents cited as to why there are banana rejects upon harvest. In addition, it is a challenge for
the balangon producers to check the plant regularly for diseases since balangon is planted using natural farming methods.
4.7.3 CHALLENGES OF THE BALANGON BANANA PROJECT
4.7.3.1 ADAPTATION TO PLANT BALANGON
At the start of the project, respondents were finding it hard to adjust since they were to produce plenty of balangon for
export. Respondents stated that:
“It’s difficult when the production was large.”
“At the start of the Balangon project, we find it hard to plant since we had to change crop from corn.”
When also asked about their feelings when the project started, the respondents were happy and satisfied. Some of the
comments were:
“I want it mam because balangon is okay, I am truly thankful to the balangon (project) because of the help that we
have received.”
“The Banana Balangon Project will help us.”
4.7.3.2 GOVERNMENT SHOULD RESPOND TO THE DEMANDS AND NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY
When respondents were asked for the problems they currently face, they pointed to the lack of basic necessities in the
community. The focus group discussion reveals the respondents’ sentiments. They want the government to respond to the
needs and demands of the community.
Some of the comments are:
“The road mam and school and light. The road so that the truck can pass by our community and so that the truck
will not fall.”
Meanwhile, another respondent expressed her need for the government to help their tribe. She said that every election,
people who want to run for public office go to their community to deliver promises, only to break them. In spite of this, she
and the other respondents still feel hopeful that the government can help them.
“We call on the Government to help us Ubos because the school is far from here we are the poor here, every
election, we are the ones used here, we are the poor, we need help.”
4.7.3.3 PLANTERS URGE THE GOVERNMENT TO IMPLEMENT THE ANCESTRAL DOMAIN LAW
Also, respondents still were hoping that the government could help them especially in the implementation of ancestral
domain law. When respondents were asked about the government policies regarding Indigenous peoples that they knew, they
replied that the government policy of ancestral domain law no longer works for them. Their comments were:
“For us mam, the policy, we cannot sell our lands or even loan it. It is not allowed. But they have sold the
mountain here, it was sold by the officers of the NCIP (National Commission on Indigenous People) and
then they were stopped by the Ubo.”
When asked about the policies of the government for the Indigenous People, the translator commented, thus:
“How can it help? (the government policies that were for Indigenous People) because the land was already
disposed but since they are occupants they cannot be asked to leave.”
Meanwhile, respondents have all agreed that after the lands were already sold to others, there have been boundaries
within it. In addition, they have expressed their sentiments toward the issue. They felt helpless and hopeless over the lands that
were sold. After the respondents have discussed with the translator in T’boli dialect, one of the comments were:
“It was supposed to help them (the land) because they can plant their banana but now some have said that
“don’t touch that because it’s mine” that is why they (the respondents) lost their freedom to plant.”
Another respondent had recalled how their elders in the past had traded their lands in exchange for food. She
commented that:
“Because our elders before when we were not born yet, they have exchanged our lands with
salt, even
kalamay,tamban, bagoong, and rice. They gave our lands to the Ilonggos that is why the Ilonggos have lands
here in Barangay Tasiman, that is why we had lived here in the mountain because our community was
exchanged for rice and corn but we will not be fooled now because we are already educated and we know
that we have rights and that we cannot exchange our land just for salt. That’s what I know."
At the end, in spite of the lands that were sold by the NCIP, respondents hoped that the institution would help them.
Another respondent commented that:
“There is the NCIP that knows our needs. They are the ones that will teach us not to sell our lands.”
4.8 SUSTAINABILITY OF THE PROJECT: SD ANALYZER RESULTS
Figure 5
The SD Analyzer was among other data measures used to analyze the benefits or impacts of projects, programs, strategies
or other interventions. In addition, the SD Analyzer “qualitatively determines the resource build-up or “benefits” (potential
positive consequences, both intended and unintended) and the resource drawdown or “costs” (potential negative consequences,
both intended and unintended) of development interventions—policies, strategies, programs or project” [25].The SD analyzer
was used to determine the project’s sustainability. The analysis was done as focus group activity whereby respondents, being
the managers of their own community, were asked to complete the SD analyzer.
Based on the given instructions on how to determine whether a project is sustainable or not, resource build up
indicators got 85 points that was deducted on the ratings of resource drawn indicators that has 30 points. According to the
instructions, if the overall total score is positive, then the project is sustainable. In this study, the balangon project had a overall
total score of 55 points that means the project is foreseen by the respondents as sustainable.
8 MODERATUM GENERALIZATIONS
The Balangon Banana Project has significant economic, human and socio-cultural, political, technological, physical and
environmental changes among the T’boli and Ubo farmers in terms of their situation.
In terms of their economic situation, the respondents now have regular sources of income. More importantly, the
results of the study showed that most of them were able to afford to spend money on their own basic necessities and needs.
This is indicative of the fact that the Balangon Banana Project has helped to improve the respondents’ economic well-being.
Culturally, there is a positive change of attitudes and values wherein the respondents now spend longer time in the
farm whereas before, they used to be wanderers in which they don’t stay in a place for too long. Now that they stay longer in
the farm, they have diversified their sources of income through the planting of different kinds of root crops, vegetables and
fruits. In addition, women are now more respected in their culture. The value of respect is important in society as it accords
everyone a sense of importance and dignity which makes a person truly human, regardless of his culture. Also, respect
connotes command, power and authority.
One of the political significant changes among respondents’ was the formation of
SOBAPRO (Soging Balangon
Producers Association). Cooperative that serves as a political support system in the community whereby it can help them to
avail more livelihood that increases their chance of earning more income. Another significant change can be seen in
respondents’ physical and environmental situation as they no longer need to do the traditional slash-and-burn agriculture and
the traditional hunting and gathering of animals – all of which are environmentally destructive. There was a paradigm shift
from the respondents’ traditional way of life to an environment-friendly agricultural based farming that provided all
respondents with regular income.
Meanwhile, the innovative ideas as what to do with balangon has been helpful especially in the establishment of
balangon bakeshoppe where balangon rejects are converted into pastry products.
The Balangon Banana Project has been a success in helping the T’boli and Ubo farmers in terms of their poverty
situation and empowering them in their own communities. However, there is a need for the government to take action on the
challenges that the research study has posed especially with regard to the needs and demands of the said communities, such as
the construction of main roads and access to more basic facilities like communication, light and water.
Based on the results of the SD Analyzer, The Balangon Banana Project is sustainable. Moreover, the study showed
that there were significant economic, human and socio-cultural, political, technological, physical and environmental changes
among the T’boli and Ubo farmers in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines.
9 RECCOMENDATIONS
1. Seminars or workshops on how to prevent banana diseases can be offered balangon farmers in coordination with
Department of Agriculture and the Department of Science and Technology.
2. As the market for export of balangon expands, there can be a lot of balangon rejects. As such, public-private partnership
with different organizations is a great way to help for the development of new innovations that will deal with balangon rejects.
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Additional notes:
The author is currently working at Center for Integrated Development and Social Marketing, Inc. The author had graduated
from her Master’s degree last March 2014.This graduate research has been successfully approved and submitted as part of the
requirements for earning the degree of Master of Arts in Development Studies at the University of Santo Tomas Graduate
School in Manila Philippines in March 2014. She may be contacted through her email: acinojto@yahoo.com
APPENDIX I
Demographic Profile of the Respondents
I. Respondents Age
Figure 1
Respondents' Age
66 and
above
58-66
49-57
40-48
31-39
22-30
(3) 4.69%
(2) 3.13%
(4) 6.25%
(13) 20.31%
(22) 34.38%
(20) 31.25%
Most of the respondents age ranges from 31-39(34.38%) followed by those who are between 22-30(31.25%) and 4048(20.31%). Meanwhile, respondents whose age ranges from 49-57 make up a few (6.25%) of the population and three
respondents were in the category of 66 and above age range (4.69%).
II. Respondents’ Sex
Figure 2
Respondents' Sex
male
female
(25) 39%
(39) 61%
Majority are males (61%) while female respondents comprise less than the majority (39%) of the population.
III. Respondents' Civil Status
Figure 3
Respondents' Civil Status
(57) 89.06%
(4) 6.25%
single
married
(2) 3.13%
widow
(1) 1.56%
live in
More than half (89.6%) of the respondents are married. T’boli marriage traditions are still practiced especially the
giving of dowry to the females in their society. In the T’boli culture, men are allowed to have more than one wife. Some of the
respondents have 2 wives. On the other hand, Respondents whose civil status is single make up a few (6.25%) of the
population followed by those who are widow (3.13%) and live in or common-law marriage (1.56%).
IV. Respondents Educational Attainment
Figure 4
Respondents' Educational Attainment
elementary
undergraduate
elementary
graduate
high school
undergraduate
(7) 10.94%
(5) 7.81%
(12) 18.75%
(4) 6.25%
(8) 12.50%
12.50%
(20) 31.25%
high school
graduate
college
undergraduate
college graduate
no formal
education
A significant portion of the population (31.25%) are elementary undergraduates, followed by those high school
undergraduates (18.75%). Meanwhile, some (12.50%) of the respondents have no formal education.
V. Respondents Ethnic Origin
Figure 5
Respondents' Ethnic Origin
T'boli
(51) 79.69 %
Ubo
(13) 20.31 %
Majority (79.69 %) of the respondents are of T’boli orgin while those who are of Ubo origin constitute less than half
(20.31%) of the population.
VI. Respondent’s Spoken Dialect
Table 1
Respondents’ Spoken Dialect
Multiple Responses
Respondents’ Spoken Dialect
F
%
T’boli
64
100
llongo
56
87.50
Tagalog
31
48.4
Cebuano
24
37.5
Ubo
13
27.08
English
6
9.4
Respondents can speak and understand more than two native and local languages with T’boli (100%) as the main
dialect of the respondents. Ilonggo dialect is widely spoken (87.50%) followed by Tagalog (48.4%), Cebuano (37.5%) and
English (9.4%). Though the respondents can speak and understand more than two languages, their knowledge on these
languages is still limited, and therefore are most comfortable speaking their own.
VII.Length of Involvement Since the Start of the Banana Balangon Project
Figure 6
Length of Involvement since the Start of the Banana Balangon Project
Length of Involvement in Years
1-3
4-6
7-9
Majority of the respondents (51.56%) have been involved in the balangon project within a span of 1-3 years. Those
whose length of involvement is from 4-6 years and 7-9 years comprise nearly half (48.44%) of the population.
VIII. Respondents’ Other Source of Income
Table 2
Respondents’ Other Source of Income
Multiple Responses
Respondent's other source of income
F
%
28
43.75
employment (teacher,driver,laborer,etc.)
23
35.94
business activities
9
14.06
corn only
7
10.94
fish vending
6
9.38
None
4
6.25
Not specified
2
3.13
farming
(planting
of
farm
crops
kamote,durian,palawan,abaca,rubber,corn,etc.)
e.g.
Majority of the respondents’(43.75%) other source of income is from farming(planting of farm crops e.g.
kamote,durian,palawan,abaca,rubber,corn,etc.) followed by those who’s
other source of income is employment(
teacher,driver,laborer,etc.) (35.94%), business activities (14.06%) and fish vending (9.38%). Moreover, those who have no
other source of income make up (6.25%) of the total population.
IX. Respondents’ House Ownership
Figure 7
Respondent’s House Ownership
owned
free usage
Almost all respondents(90.62%) have their own houses except for a few (9.38) of the population.
X. Respondents’ House Dwelling Type
Table 3
Respondent’s House dwelling type
Respondent's House Dwelling
Type
F
%
Concrete
4
6.25
Semi-concrete
11
17.19
House made of bamboo/nipa hut
49
76.56
Total
64
100.0
Respondents’ house dwelling type is mostly made of bamboo/nipa hut(76.56%), followed by those who’s dwelling
type is semi-concrete(17.19%) and concrete (6.25%).
XI. Respondent’s Organizational Affiliation
Table 4
Respondent’s Organizational Affiliation
Multiple Responses
Respondent’s
tional affiliation
organiza
F
%
Farmer’s organizations
23
35.94
Other NGO organizations
13
20.31
Religious organizations
3
4.69
Women’s organizations
3
4.69
Member of government
program-4PS
32
50.00
In terms of organizational affiliation, half of the respondents are members of government programs (50.00%) such as the
government program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Pangtawid-Pangkabuhayan-Pamilya Program
(DSWD-4PS) where the respondents are allowed to borrow money given an interest rate. Some respondents are members of
farmer’s organizations (35.94%). Some are members of other NGO organizations (20.31%), religious organizations (4.69%)
and women’s organizations (4.69%).