Shifting Paradigms in Coffee-Based Cultivation: Cultural Management Practices and Technology Utilization in Upland, Cavite, Philippines

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to analyze the changes in the cultural management practices and technology used in farming that have taken place with the coffee-based farming systems in an upland area in Cavite, Philippines from 2001-2020. Theoretical framework: The Triple Bottom Line (TBL) paradigm is a sustainable development strategy considering social, environmental, and economic factors. Once agricultural systems are tested, TBL might help promote productive and sustainable farming practices that benefit producers, communities, and the environment. By adopting a complete sustainability strategy, the TBL framework may help develop socially, ecologically, and economically sustainable agricultural systems and contribute significantly to long-term adaptation and prosperity. Design/methodology/approach: The study is qualitative research design and used several data collection methods, including in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussion, document analysis, field notes, and farm visits and observations. Findings: The results show that in farmers' different cultural management practices, significant changes have occurred in several methods over the past two decades. Regarding the application and use of new technologies, farmers applied newly introduced technologies by individuals and other institutions. Research, Practical & Social implications: The study sheds light on the current state of coffee-based cultivation and practices and make recommendations to further improve farmers' cultural management practices and sustain the local coffee-based farming system. In addition, access to new and relevant technology and knowledge on how to apply it to improve farming productivity among coffee-based farmers This study also provides valuable guidance for extension experts and workers, policymakers, coffee-based growers, and researchers who want to improve coffee-based farming systems' sustainability and economic viability at the same time empower farming communities. Originality/value: This study is a qualitative examination of how technology utilizations and cultural management practices interact with coffee-based agricultural systems in Upland Cavite, Philippines. This research provides much-needed in-depth knowledge of how traditional agricultural systems adjust to technology improvements during the global crisis since there have been few qualitative studies on this topic, particularly at such a trying time. It provides a localized perspective that acknowledges regional variations and the influences of geographical and socio-cultural nuances as it examines the socio-economic and cultural impacts of technology adoption in the specific sector of coffee-based farming, which is vital to the Philippine economy. Moreover, the study is noteworthy in providing a temporal component that describes how technology has changed practices through time. The findings of this research, which were obtained during an unprecedented period, should help stakeholders create more effective and culturally-sensitive strategies for adopting technology and sustainability in coffee-based cultivation. Combining these distinctive elements highlights the research's significant uniqueness and worth.