Impact of agricultural intervention on socio-economic development of farmers: Evidence from regression discontinuity design

The contribution of agriculture in the socio-economic development is undeniable and is truly an important part of the Philippine economy. It is also a major source of livelihood and employment of most Filipinos especially in the rural areas. The general intent of this study is to evaluate the impact of the government agricultural intervention on selected upland communities in Goa, Camarines Sur especially on the far-flung barangays of the municipality using Regression Discontinuity Design. This study assessed the socio-economic and poverty status of the local farmers through the agricultural interventions received. The results showed that the distribution of seeds, fertilizers and cash assistance to the upland farmers could improve the overall outputs of the farmers, which can help alleviate their lives. Similarly, the agricultural interventions of the government have great and positive impact to alleviate poverty and improve the quality of life of the local farmers. However, irrigation and farm-to-market roads need to be prioritized to ensure that agricultural production output increase.