Ethnological Pest Management Practices of Indigenous People (Aeta/ Negrito/Ita) in Catanuan, Quezon

Abstract

In the Philippines, there are more than 110 culturally diverse ethnic tribes and communities. As clearly stated in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, Article XIV, Section 17, the state shall recognize, respect, and protect the rights of the indigenous cultural communities to preserve and develop their cultures, traditions, and institutions. The Aeta, Agta or Ayta are indigenous people who live in scattered, isolated mountainous parts of Barangay San Jose (Anyao), Catanauan, Quezon. The researcher conducted an ethnological study to document the Indigenous People integrated pest management practices employing the descriptive survey method. Based on the result, 80% were still practicing the traditional way of managing the pest without harming the human and environment. The Aeta farmers leave the infected crops, manually pick burn or use smoke to eliminate the pest.Moreover, the farmers also practice crop rotation, mixed cropping, and properly manage the farm. Crop loss due to pests was one of the major problems resulting from reducing production and income. The chemical control of pests was predominant, but the Aeta farmers still practiced traditional pest control. The conventional pest control practices played a significant role in the management of agricultural land, and it was an inevitable practice for sustainable agriculture. The proper control of pests minimized economic losses and damage to the environment. Some of the respondents have insufficient skills and knowledge on the ethnological way of controlling pest and diseases using insect repellant like marigold or Amarillo, lemongrass or tanlad, oregano, and by spraying wild chili mixed with water. Based on the result, it was recommended to conduct seminars and workshops on Organic Agriculture as well as an awareness campaign on the effect of chemical fertilizer to human and environment