CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT IN SELECTED BARANGAYS IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF VICTORIA, ORIENTAL MINDORO: A BASIS FOR INTERVENTION PROGRAM

This study examined the relationship between the assessed the demographic profile, climate-smart agricultural practices (CSAPs) and its socio-economic impact in selected barangays in the Municipality of Victoria as basis for intervention. This study used descriptive-correlational method of research. The participants of the study were the 305 farmers from Victoria, Oriental Mindoro. The study underscored that the adoption of CSAPs was shaped by key demographic characteristics, with age, sex, educational attainment, and training showing significant influence. These factors affected how farmers engaged with CSAPs, where older and more educated individuals, as well as those exposed to training, demonstrated greater adoption. Civil status was not significantly related to CSAP implementation, suggesting that farming behavior may be more influenced by capacity and opportunity than by household structure. It was also observed that while low-cost and traditional practices were more commonly used, technical or resource-intensive strategies remained underutilized due to limited access, awareness, and institutional reach. Despite partial adoption, most CSAP components were positively associated with improvements in agricultural productivity and income. However, the effectiveness of risk reduction and diversification strategies was notably weak, reflecting deeper issues such as lack of technical guidance, poor market conditions, and vulnerability to climate shocks like flooding and typhoons. These constraints emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, targeted support, and inclusive training programs. Based on these findings, an intervention program was proposed to promote wider adoption by addressing barriers, supporting marginalized farmers, and strengthening community and institutional linkages.