SUSTAINABLE WATER MANAGEMENT THROUGH AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES: THE TECHNOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF BANANAS IN SUPPORTING RURAL LIVELIHOODS

ABSTRACT In mountainous regions where water scarcity is persistent, communities often face constraints in accessing safe and reliable water sources. Traditional practices among upland settlers in the Philippines suggest that water from banana trunks can serve as a potable source, attributed to the plant’s natural capillary and filtration properties. This study explores the technological potential of banana trunk-extracted water as an alternative resource for sustainable water management and livelihood support in water-scarce mountain areas. A descriptive–experimental research design was employed across four municipalities in Cebu Province—Tuburan, Balamban, Pinamungajan, and Aloguinsan. Water samples were extracted from banana trunks in both forested and non-forested areas and analyzed for physical, chemical, and bacteriological parameters following the Philippine National Drinking Water Standards (PNDWS). Surveys and interviews were also conducted among 278 respondents, including household water users, farmers, local leaders, and health experts, to assess community perception, usability, and acceptance of banana trunk-extracted water. Findings revealed that water samples from forested areas exhibited superior quality, characterized by lower turbidity, stable pH, and reduced total dissolved solids compared to those from non-forested sites. However, bacteriological analysis indicated the presence of total and fecal coliforms slightly above PNDWS limits, suggesting the need for household-level disinfection. Respondents recognized banana trunk water as a practical and low-cost supplementary water source for domestic, agricultural, and livestock uses, with high acceptance levels (mean = 4.14). The results affirm that environmental conditions, particularly vegetation cover, influence water quality, highlighting the interdependence between agroforestry and water sustainability. The utilization of banana trunks represents a circular and eco-efficient approach to rural water management, transforming agricultural residues into life-supporting resources. Banana trunk-extracted water demonstrates promising potential as an alternative and supplementary water source in mountainous communities. When complemented with safe extraction and disinfection practices, this method can enhance rural water security, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and support resilient livelihoods. Keywords: Banana Trunk Water, Sustainable Water Management, Rural Livelihoods, Agroforestry, Water Quality, Mountain Communities