Looking through the Philippines’ AgriculturalExtension and Advisory Services using Perspectives in Social Change

Abstract

In the Philippines, agriculture as an economic institution remains to be a major contributor to its gross domestic product (GDP). One of the ways to improve agricultural productivity is through agricultural extension. The dynamics of extension (as part of the
education institution) and agriculture (as economic contributor) has already been established, with empirical evidences from several studies around the world. Given the richness of literature, the study explored gaps between agricultural extension and social change. Using a descriptive-exploratory research design, historical research, and semi-systematic literature review, the study discussed how agricultural extension has navigate through a constantly changing society. From the early forms of farm information etched in clay tablets, to its development across successive industrial revolutions, agricultural extension has continually adapted. Being integrated with science and technology, it remains to be a major mechanism to improve human capacity towards agricultural development. Over time, it has undergone reforms, highlighting partnerships and linkages, institutionalization and policy development, and professionalization. These changes have strengthened support not only extension workers, but also to the whole agricultural extension as an inclusive and responsive social institution. Nevertheless, whether it follows a linear or cyclical evolution pattern, investing in the best fit agricultural extension intervention, coupled with policy and infrastructural support, our farmers could have a fighting chance to navigate through local and global challenges brought by ongoing social change.