Cultivating Tomorrow: A Comprehensive Review of Agricultural Innovations in the Philippines (2018-2023)

Abstract

This systematic review undertook an examination of agricultural innovations in the Philippines spanning from 2018 to 2023. The objective was to provide a comprehensive categorization, analyze adoption trends, and offer recommendations to optimize research priorities. A methodical approach involving literature search, screening, and quantitative analysis facilitated an organized investigation into various innovation types, contributors, applications, and geographical contexts. The findings indicated that image analysis and sustainable farming systems held the highest shares within the innovation categories, comprising 26% and 23%, respectively. These segments showcased cutting-edge techniques along with a commitment to environmental stewardship. Notably, rice-centric innovations dominated at 33.33%, underscoring the underrepresentation of high-value crops, livestock, and remote farming sectors. However, a geographical bias was evident, with 69.23% of studies concentrating solely on Luzon regions, particularly in central and northern areas. This revealed a need to acknowledge the agricultural potential present in Visayas and Mindanao, emphasizing the necessity for increased research emphasis in these regions. Furthermore, the study unveiled a fragmented landscape in research contributions, with the majority of contributors representing less than a 5% share each. This fragmentation suggests a lack of cross-institutional partnerships, hindering a holistic and collaborative approach to agricultural innovation. Critical gaps in innovation prioritization and adoption levels were identified, particularly in sustainable practices, precision technologies, non-cereal commodities, and geographically disadvantaged communities. Addressing these gaps requires significant institutional support through modernization policies and localized capacity-building programs, ideally facilitated by industry-academia partnerships. In conclusion, the establishment of unified innovation transfer conduits is essential to expedite the transition of solutions from proofs-of-concept to farmer-ready tools, ensuring a targeted approach that caters to regional needs.