Partida A Collaborative Rice Planting and Harvesting Technique of Farmers in One Municipality of Northern Cagayan, Philippines

This study explored and documented the practice of partida as rice planting and harvesting technique among farmer folks of the Municipality of Lasam, Cagayan. Ethnographic research methods such as fieldwork, ethnographic interviews and case analysis were used to elicit information on partida. Data collection was organized around qualitative research strategy consisting of extensive research interviews from the thirty-seven (37) farmer folks of the eight (8) farming barangays of the municipality. It was uncovered that the practice of partida is a reflection of Lasameno values and character which can pave way to a more cohesive community through fellowship, practice of tradition, industriousness and spirituality, but also threatened due to the presence of farm mechanization. The study also revealed that the primary reason of the informants to engage in Partida is to have a source of livelihood in order to sustain their need for money for the provisions of their families, but experienced loss of livelihood due to the effect of the use of combine rice harvester. Results of the study may provide a point of reference for policy directions and interventions to balance the preservation of culture and traditions amidst the presence of agricultural development.

Keywords – Partida, rice planting, farmers, Northern Cagayan