Maize in the Philippines: production systems, constraints, and research priorities

Abstract

This is one of a series of country studies on maize production systems in Asia. It is part of a project designed to promote sustainable intensification of maize production systems while ensuring equitable income growth and improved food security for poor households that depend on maize. Maize is the second most important food crop (after rice) in the Philippines, and the major source of income for one-third of farmers (1.8 million). It is also the primary source of feed for the Filipino poultry and livestock industry, and is being increasingly used in the manufacturing sector. Rapid economic growth and urbanization are expected to create an even higher demand for maize in the Philippines. The challenge is to provide more maize for an expanding market, while preserving the natural resource base and the environment. Effective policy design and implementation must be based on comprehensive, accurate data on the current state of maize-based farming systems. The goal of this study was to clarify the probable response of the social and biophysical environments of the Philippines to future growth in demand for maize by determining the constraints to productivity growth and the potential environmental consequences, by collecting information on the available options for promoting sustainable growth.