Shrinking Rice Bowls: Tracing the Decline of Philippine Rice Lands

Abstract

Rice farming is a pillar of food security, livelihoods, and cultural heritage across the Philippines. However, available rice lands face mounting pressures. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on factors driving the decline of Philippine rice lands over the past 30 years (1993-2023). Literature was retrieved from academic databases and grey sources, screened for relevance, and analyzed following PRISMA guidelines. Results reveal both natural and anthropogenic threats to rice lands: recurrent typhoons, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and flooding periodically damage rice areas. However, human activities dominated the drivers of rice land loss and degradation. Rapid urbanization and sprawl have directly converted 30-50% of rice lands near cities over recent decades. Agricultural policies and shifting profitability spurred farmers to convert paddies to aquaculture, cash crops, and other uses. Inadequate irrigation leaves 30% of lands dry. Deforestation disrupts water supplies essential for traditional wet rice cultivation, prompting abandonment. Groundwater over-extraction causes subsidence, enhancing flood risks and infrastructure damage. Deteriorating iconic Cordillera rice terraces face erosion and landslides after abandonment. Integrated land use planning is urgently needed to safeguard sufficient rice lands and support climate-resilient, sustainable intensification. Stronger protection of agricultural zones, expansion of irrigation infrastructure, and farmers’ adaptation incentives can help secure rice farming livelihoods and long-term food self-sufficiency, given the projected pressures of urbanization and climate change across the Philippines’ rice lands.