Integrated Pest Management Practices of Rice Farmers in Marantao, Lanao Del Sur

This study generally aimed to find out the selected integrated pest management practices of the rice farmers in their production at selected barangays at Marantao, Lanao del Sur. It specifically aimed to find out the demographic profile of the respondents; to identify integrated pest management practices; to determine the benefits acquired in practicing the integrated pest management control; and to identify the problems encountered in the application of integrated pest management (IPM) control. The information on their production was based during the year 2023 to 2024. The study surveyed seventy-four (74) rice farmers in Marantao, Lanao del Sur, assessing their IPM practices. This made use of descriptive survey research design, structured survey questionnaire, and frequency and percentage distribution, weighted mean, and the Likert scale to provide an accurate understanding of their practices and challenges. This study revealed that rice farmers in Marantao, Lanao del Sur are predominantly around 50 to 59 years old, male, married, elementary level, 4 to 6 family members with monthly net income of ₱5,000.00 and below, and have been into farming for around 5 years and above. IPM practices such as biological practice using predators, often use integrated pest management techniques for cost savings, reduced chemical use, and improved crop quality. The researchers suggested that farmers should receive training in IPM practices to promote sustainable crop production. The Local Government Unit should collaborate with experts to provide training, resulting in improved crop yields, reduced costs, and reduced pesticide use.