Acceptance of diffused light storage technology by potato farmers in the Benguet and Mountain Provinces of the Philippines

Abstract

Improper seed potato storage was considered to be a major constraint in the Philippine highlands. For this reason a program of introducing diffused light storage technology was launched in early 1978 to resolve the problem. Scattered reports indicated a rapid adoption of the technology by the farmers; however no follow-up had been done to determine the extent of adoption. Hence, a survey was conducted from July to December 1983 to assess the impact of the diffuse light storage (DLS) technology among potato farmers.

Of the 1412 farmers interviewed 42% have adopted the DLS technology. Nearly all adopters have simply modified existing structures to permit diffuse light to enter and store tubers in thin layers. Only 1.5% have constructed simple storages. Generally the farmers who accepted the technology are close to the main access road and are the more progressive farmers. Most reported better quality seed and subsequent higher yields as a result of the technology. Conversely, 35% of the respondents, primarily in remote areas, were not even aware of the DLS technology. Another 27% of the respondents planned to accept the technology by improving their traditional storages.

To increase the utilization of the technology, more extension effort needs to be put forth demonstrating the benefits of the DLS by improving existing storage structures found in remote areas where potato production is not well developed.