A groundbreaking research program is transforming rubber farming in the southern Philippines with innovative cropping systems designed to enhance soil health and agricultural productivity. 

The initiative, titled “Development of Rubber-Based Cropping Systems in Southern Philippines,” is spearheaded by Dr. Adeflor G. Garcia of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM).

The project, funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) and the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR), comprises six component projects aimed at revolutionizing rubber farming practices. 

One key component, “Effective Rubber-Based Cropping System in Agusan del Sur and North Cotabato,” led by Joseph O. Castillo of USM, has been instrumental in designing and testing cropping models that integrate rubber trees with companion species such as cardava bananas, cacao, coffee, and lanzones.

Experimental farms have been established as part of this research. They showcase four innovative cropping models combining rubber trees with diverse intercrops. The scientists say initial results are promising: rubber trees have reached the recommended height for branch induction within 10-12 months, setting the stage for future latex production. Concurrently, perennial intercrops like cardava bananas have shown impressive yields, with harvests exceeding 25 kilograms per mat.

Robusta coffee, another crop in the system, is already blooming for its third fruit setting, indicating successful integration into the rubber-based cropping model. These early successes underscore the potential of these systems to enhance productivity and sustainability in rubber farming.

Given that rubber trees take six to eight years to mature, the program focuses on extensive research and field trials to optimize the intercropping strategy. The research evaluates various intercrops, including corn, mungbean, eggplant, bell pepper, sweet potato, and cassava, while also monitoring the health and growth of rubber trees. This approach not only fosters soil resilience but also provides crucial income during the trees' immature phase, thereby boosting overall agricultural productivity.

The program has achieved three crop cycles of corn and mungbean within the first two years. While cassava shows promise, its potential shading effect on rubber rows requires careful management to optimize growth conditions.

The project's impact extends beyond immediate beneficiaries. The five rubber-based farming system models established in Kabacan, North Cotabato, and Mabuhay, Bayugan City, Agusan Del Sur, serve as living examples of the system’s feasibility and benefits. These models have also become training grounds for extension workers, agricultural students, and farmers. Additionally, they have been showcased at the National Organic Agriculture Conference, benefiting 55 farmer-participants from various regions.

This initiative not only improves soil management and diversifies yields for smallholder farmers but also contributes to the empowerment of marginalized communities. By aligning with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP 2023-2028), the program promotes natural resource-based industries and modernizes agriculture, demonstrating that scientific innovation and collaboration can address the challenges of poverty and inequality.

As the program continues to evolve, it highlights the economic viability and environmental benefits of diversified cropping systems. With its potential to improve soil health, enhance productivity, and provide economic opportunities for farmers, this research program stands as a testament to the transformative power of science and partnership in agricultural development.

Annual intercrops (a. sweet potato, b. bell pepper, c. corn, d. mungbean) planted in the 1-ha rubber farm. (Image credit: University of Southern Mindanao)