Magnitude and Viability of Mechanization of Agri-Fishery Industry in Camarines Norte

The study assessed the extent of mechanization and the viability to modernize agri-fishery industry in Camarines Norte. The assessment determined and evaluated the agri-fishery industry?s employment and utilization of machineries and equipment, productivity and efficiency and its implications on the AFMech Law (RA 10601) in the Country. Data were supplied by the 601 farmer-entrepreneurs as respondents through the interview schedule. It utilized the descriptive-evaluative research design and was statistically analyzed using the SPSS v.2.0. Mechanized farming by the utilization of modern machineries and equipment was appraised significantly to be low. Productivity and efficiency levels were also found significantly low. Productivity and mechanization level revealed insignificant correlations but was significantly correlated as regards efficiency. Government supports and the inhibiting factors in the adoption/ employment of agri-fishery mechanization were identified to address productivity and efficiency program; capitalization strategy (materials and machine); technical trainings and certifications; and, infrastructure and financial supports. The study concluded that the mechanization of the agri-fishery industry in the province has yet to be revolutionized. Based on the findings, it drafted four programs for the policy recommendations which may be the basis for the concerned government agencies and other key players for the development and modernization of the agriculture and fishery industry.