Functional Competency of Agriculture Extension Workers in Philippine Country

The study aimed to assess the functional competency level of agricultural extension workers (AEWs), as the sector’s non-formal education service providers in Philippine country. The study employed a mixed methods approach by integrating both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that the functional competencies of AEWs are at an average level, with four competencies rated as high namely extension methods and tools, agricultural extension programme management, adult learning of behavioural change, and community mobilization. Meanwhile, the role of extension in supporting value chain, agricultural entrepreneurship, and risk mitigation and adaptation in extension and advisory services ranked as the lowest competencies. Results also showed that there are significant relationships between current competencies and years of service in the local government units, highest educational attainment, and years as focal persons in banner commodity programs. This study shall build an understanding of the current level of functional competencies of AEWs in a developing country. Results could also be considered as a basis for adult educators in designing curriculums and adopting methods and strategies fitting for the professional needs of AEWs not only in the Region and other parts of the world.