Small-Scale Farmers' Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Their Perceptions of Pesticide Use of Rice in Monkayo

Abstract

This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of small-scale rice farmers regarding pesticide use in Monkayo, Davao de Oro, Philippines. Using a quantitative, descriptive, correlational design, data were collected from 60 farmers using an adapted survey questionnaire. Descriptive statistics revealed very high levels of knowledge, a high level of attitude, and very high levels of perceptions regarding pesticide use among respondents. Correlation analysis showed significant positive relationships between knowledge and perception, and between attitude and perception, while regression analysis indicated that knowledge and attitude combined explained 52% of the variance in perception. These results indicate that farmers with stronger knowledge and more favorable attitudes tend to form responsible, benefit-oriented perceptions of pesticide use, supporting the applicability of the Theory of Planned Behavior to explain behavioral tendencies toward pesticide practices. The study highlights that while farmers highly value the economic benefits of pesticides, they also acknowledge associated health and environmental risks, which shape their perceptions and decision-making. Based on these findings, enhancing farmer training in safe pesticide handling, promoting less-toxic alternatives, and strengthening extension programs in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) are recommended further to improve knowledge and attitudes toward sustainable pest control. Institutional support through policies, incentives, and hands-on community education is likewise encouraged to cultivate safer, more informed, and environmentally responsible farming practices among small-scale farmers.