International Journal of Research Studies in Management
Divine Word College of San Jose Special Issue
2026 Volume 14 Issue 3
Available Online: 5 May 2026
Author/s:
Valdez, Jonathan V.*
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (balongvaldez.mao22@gmail.com)
Macabata, Nancy S.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (nancy.santiago.macabata@gmail.com)
Galay-Limos, Jenny A.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (jennygalay05@gmail.com)
Abstract:
This study investigated the benefits of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Mechanization and financial impact on rice farmers in Rizal and Occidental Mindoro, focusing on mechanization and capacity-building. Utilizing an exploratory sequential research design, a total of 243 rice farmers served as respondents, with primary data collected through in-depth interviews and validated questionnaires analyzed using thematic coding and statistical measures. Findings indicate that the program yielded very high benefits, enhancing farm productivity, operational efficiency, and technical competence. Financial outcomes were similarly significant, demonstrating notable reductions in production costs and increases in farmers’ income. Correlational analysis further revealed that mechanization strongly influences financial performance, while capacity-building contributes significantly to operational effectiveness. Based on these insights, recommendations include establishing cooperative-based machinery management systems, sustaining technical training programs, implementing digital monitoring mechanisms, and strengthening coordination among farmers’ cooperatives, local government units, and agencies such as PhilMech and the Agricultural Training Institute. The results provide evidence-based guidance for policymakers, practitioners, and future researchers seeking to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and economic resilience of rice farming through targeted mechanization and capacity-building interventions.
Keywords: Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), mechanization, financial impact, enhancing farm productivity, operational efficiency
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26505
Cite this article:
Valdez, J. V., Macabata, N. S., & Galay-Limos, J. A. (2026). Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) mechanization and the financial impact on the farmers. International Journal of Research Studies in Management, 14(3), 79-98. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2026.26505
* Corresponding Author