Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Native Pig Raisers: Exploring Coconut-Based Ration Utilization in the Zamboanga Peninsula Region, Philippines

Aim: This study aims to describe the socioeconomic profile of native pig raisers (NPR), assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards the utilization of coconut-based feedstuffs, determine the relationship of socioeconomic profile and KAP, and determine the differences of KAPS of NPRs in the Zamboanga Peninsula Region.Methodology: This study employed quota sampling, semi-structured questionnaires, and face-to-face interviews for data collection.It used descriptive statistical analysis, Pearson's correlation analysis, and one-way analysis of variance set at an alpha 0.05 level of significance. Results:The study revealed that the NPRs' profile revealed predominance of middle-aged married females with low levels of formal education and income, primarily engaged in personal business as their main source of income, and relatively new to native pig raising.Mostly cultivated coconut and banana as main crop, and using coconut dregs, freshly grated coconut, corn bran, and rice bran as cheap feed ingredients, feeding thrice daily and occasionally providing Kang-Kong (Ipomea aquatica L.), and using fish scraps as protein source for backyard-raised native pigs in the region.The key challenges of NPRs include high feed costs, unavailability of formulated feeds, and lack of technical support.Conclusion: Despite strong positive attitudes towards the utilization of coconut-based feedstuffs, NPRs have limited knowledge of the nutritional benefits and occasionally use coconut-based feedstuffs in their feeding practices.There is a weak positive correlation between educational attainment and the monthly income, while significant differences in the KAPs were observed in the NPRs among the provinces in the Zamboanga peninsula region.