36. ECONOMIC PROSPECTS OF SMALL-SCALE TREE

A study was conducted to investigate the economic returns of subsistence farmers from small-scale tree farms in Bontoc Municipality, Southern Leyte, and the reasons that influence attitudes of farmers towards tree domestication. Yemani (Gmelina arborea Roxb.) and big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla king.) are the most commonly planted timber species in Southern Leyte. They are frequently planted as intercrops in coconut plantations, and sometimes on farm boundaries and along highways. In recent times, harvesting of yemani has been a common occurrence throughout the municipality. The derived products are widely used by farmers for a variety of purposes. Bolt or sticks are used as boat keels while other parts are further processed into lumber for household construction and repairs. In rare cases, the lumber produced is sold to the market to earn additional income. However, the price is solely dependent on the amount as dictated by the buyer. As revealed by farmers, the market price of lumber ranged from 12 to 14 PhP/board foot. The price of the lumber is much lower than existing prices in commercial lumber yards which are approximately 21−25 PhP/bf. Despite the low and unfavourable market prices for their lumber, farmers in Bontoc have earned an additional income of from Php1184 to PhP7173 for an 8-year tending operation. If the farmer were to be given the chance to develop larger areas into plantation, the increase in income might be considerable. Availability of land, unclear land tenure, access to markets and absence of wood processing technology are considered by farmers as constraints to smallholder forestry