Tiger Grass Technical Report

Profile of Tiger Grass Industry
in Marigondon Norte, San Andres, Romblon:

Basis for Developmental Intervention
by
Eddie G. Fetalvero
Research Coordinator
Tomas T. Faminial, CPA

Extension Coordinator
College of Business and Accountancy

Romblon State University
Odiongan, Romblon
March 2010
A Survey Funded by
The Department of Trade and Industry
and Romblon State University
All Rights Reserved 2010

Research and Extension Unit
College of Business and Accountancy
Romblon State University
Odiongan, Romblon
Acknowledgment
This is our first externally funded research and we sincerely acknowledge everyone who
has become an instrument in the completion of this study.
Specifically, we earnestly thank the following:
The Department of Trade and Industry-Romblon Provincial Office personnel particularly

Mr. Rudy J. Mariposque and Mr. Roberto M. Muros, for giving us the break to handle this
project and for suggesting inputs for the improvement of the research instrument;
The administration of the Romblon State University, headed by Dr. Jeter S. Sespeñe, for
collaborating with DTI in funding this study;
The Provincial Office of the Department of Science and Technology for providing us with
literatures about tiger grass industry;
Our industrious and hardworking staff: Angelica, Baby Vanessa, Maria Angelica and
Melody for dedicating their time, effort and resources for the project, for their prolific
interviewing skills and for their patience in gathering documents that were needed in the
study;
The Barangay Captain of Marigondon Norte, Hon. Robert Gabon for accommodating us
well and ensuring our safety during the data gathering process;
Our CBA family for the encouragement and moral support;
Our alumna, Marj Rada for her effort in providing us the list of tiger grass farmers and to
our student, Tintin Gabon, the SK Chairman of Marigondon Norte, for helping us identify
other respondents who were not included in the list;
Brgy. Kagawad Romeo Viernes for providing us valuable information about the Tiger Grass
industry in the locality and for serving as our single driver all throughout the survey
process;
Mr. & Mrs. Isaac Francisco, for opening to us the doors of their home during the conduct
of the survey and for the rich information shared about tiger grass farming;
The cordial and amiable people of Marigondon Norte particularly the tiger grass farmers
for the warm welcome and generous accommodation such that every interview was a
friendly conversation;
Hanny Gadon, a widowed tiger grass farmer whose life story served as our inspiration to
proceed with the study with the hope that help will come to farmers like her.
Our family for the continued understanding and support;
Above all, to Him who is the source of everything we got and have, be all glory and praise!
E. G. Fetalvero & T.T. Faminial

Table of Contents
Acknowledgment 3
Summary 7
Background of the Study 10
Objectives of the Study 11
Significance of the Study 11
Scope and Delimitation of the Study 12
Review of Related Literature and Studies 12
Tiger Grass Production 12
Propagation, Plantation Development and Management 13
Tiger Grass Industry in Romblon 15
Rising from Grassroots 15
Profile of Tiger Grass Industry in Romblon 16
Tiger Grass Industry in Doña Juana 17
Tiger Grass Industry in San Andres 18
Research Framework 19
Definition of Terms 20
Research Design 20
The Locale and Time of Study 21
The Samples 22
The Research Instrument 22
Data Collection Method and Data Source 23
Method of Data Processing and Analysis 23
Results and Discussion 23
Profile of Tiger Grass Farmers 23
Profile of Tiger Grass Industry 26
Farm Inputs 30
Farm Outputs 32
Farming Practices 34
Marketing Practices 36
Problems Encountered 37
Comparison of Data on Tiger Grass Industry 38
Conclusions 39
Recommendations 40
References 42
Appendix A: The Research Instrument 44
Appendix B: List of Tiger Grass Farmers 47
Case Study: Hanny Gadon: Life with the Tigers 50
List of Tables
1 Distribution of samples 22
2 Demographic profiles of tiger grass farmers 23
3 Socio-economic profiles of tiger grass farmers 25
4 Profiles of tiger grass industry 27
5 Profiles of tiger grass farms 28
6 Farm inputs in tiger grass production 31
7 Production volume of tiger grass last harvest season 32
8 Production volume across seasons of low, usual and high 33
production
9 Tendered price for tiger grass products 33
10 Estimated annual income from tiger grass production 34
11 Farm implements used in planting 35
12 Tiger grass farming practices 35
13 Marketing practices for tiger grass products 36
14 Buyers of dried luway 36
15 Problems encountered by farmers in tiger grass farming 38
16 Comparison of Data on Tiger Grass Industry 39
List of Figures
1 Conceptual Framework 19
2 Research Design 20
3 Map of Marigondon Norte 21
4 Pie graph for estimated areas of tiger grass farm per sitio 29
(in hectares)
5 Buyers and volume of dried luway bought (in bundles) 37
Fetalvero, Eddie G. & Faminial Tomas T. (2010)
_________________________________________Profile of Tiger Grass Industry in Marigondon Norte: Basis for Developmental Intervention
Summary
Marigondon Norte is a tiger grass growing village in San Andres, Romblon. It is

located in the northeastern part of the municipality along the lush and rolling mountains of
central Tablas. It is bounded by San Agustin in the east and Calatrava in the north. It has an
approximate total land area of 2,800 hectares and is home to about 221 households of 1,175
(NSO, 2005) people. It is a typical remote agricultural Philippine village, barely reached by
technological breakthroughs because of its rugged trails and far-flung distance (about 14-
18km) from the town proper. Although passable to robust motorcycles and sturdy vehicles,
transportation remains a major problem because large portions of the service road are still
in bad shape and condition.
Tiger grass industry is already a long time economic activity in the locality but its
potential has not been fully exploited. Records revealed that a number of interventions were
made for the industry to pick up but they were short-lived. It was not until the Department
of Trade and Industry (DTI) identified tiger grass as a crop for One Town, One Product
(OTOP) program of San Andres that efforts were rekindled to help develop the potential of
this industry. Although some data about tiger grass industry in the community were
available, these were insufficient to start a strategic and effective intervention. To establish
comprehensive baseline data from which developmental efforts are to be anchored, a survey
among 100 tiger grass farmers was conducted in the community during the months of
December 2009 and January 2010. The list of farmers was provided by the Barangay Council
of Mari-Norte but others were identified by key informants including previous barangay
officials and Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman. A questionnaire, worded in Filipino, was
prepared, face validated by experts from DTI and RSU and pretested among former tiger
grass farmers. Vernacular was used in the actual interview.
Results showed that out of the 100 tiger grass farmers surveyed, 71 were males and 29
were females. Most were married with an average of 4 dependents. The age of farmers
ranged from 22 to 79 years old but most were 42 years old. About 80 percent of them were
not able to receive a college education and majority spent few years only in high school.
Their approximate annual income varied between P2,500 to P130,000 with an average of
P20,500 per farmer. The combined annual income of these farmers was P2,683,000 which
was usually sourced from tiger grass farming, copra production, poultry, tiger grass
processing and nito handicrafts. Most of these farmers were not affiliated with any social
organization.
There were 86 farmers whose economic activity was concentrated on tiger grass
farming alone while 14 doubled to farming and processing. There was some hesitance on the
part of most farmers to venture into soft broom making because the process entailed
additional labor and they preferred quick cash. The length of their farming experience
ranged from 1 to 38 years with an average of 10 ½ years. Most of the broom processors were
engaged in the industry for about 20 years already, others for 38 years.
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Most of the tiger grass farms were owned by farmers but some were tilled by tenants.
It was very common to see farms that were 2 km away from homes. Although some farms
were situated just beside homes, others were located as far as 5 km away. The farm area
estimates ranged from 0.3 to 9 hectares with an average of 1 hectare per farmer. The total
farm size was 130.6 hectares distributed in the following locations: Ambunan (39 has.),
Hagnaya (37.8 has.), Naruntan (24.75 has.), Lindero (14.3 has.) Hagimit Big (7.75 has.) and
Hagimit Small (7 has.).
Tiger grass farms were also planted with coconut, other rootcrops and palay while
others were solely dedicated to tiger grass plantation. The crop calendar usually began with
site clearing using the slash and burn (kaingin) technique as early as January or February.
By May, the land was ready for the sowing of palay seeds. Around June or July, when the
palays were already about a foot tall, tiger grasses were planted alongside with the palays.
By September or October, palays were harvested but the tiger grasses were left growing. By
January to February, the tiger grasses began producing flowers and by March or April, these
were already harvested.
Managing a tiger grass plantation required an estimated annual expenses of P100 to

P15,000 depending on farm size. However, the average expense per farmer was estimated at
P2,000 a year. The reported cumulative annual expense including farm inputs and farm help
was P284,600. Farm help was usually provided for free by family members, neighbors,
nephews, cousins and friends. But some paid about P120 to P150 a day per worker.
The ideal months for planting tiger grass were from June to July. There was no day or
time preference for planting because the crop can be planted any time and any day within
those months. No superstition related to tiger grass planting was reported. The different
farm implements used in planting were tara-tara, a sharp rectangular iron attached to a
long wooden handle; tagad, a long piece of wood tapered and sharpened in one end; bolo;
pala; and piko.
The most common farming practice was to plant 1 to 5 tiger grass hills (seedlings)
per hole with intervals 1 m x 1 m intervals. Others were spacing the crops by 1.5 m x 1.5 m and
3 m x 3 m. With this practice, a hectare of land can be planted with 1,000 to 10,000 hills.
Weeding and clearing the underside of the plants were factors affecting flowering
performance. These were commonly done once a year by most farmers while others were
doing this twice or thrice a year. The following harvest and post-harvest practices were
observed: cutting the stalks while the panicles were still green and not yet fully mature, sun
drying of panicles for three days; and patting sun dried panicles against rocks to shake off
the flowers and pollens.
The production volume was measured in terms of bundle, a pack of about 100 stalks
of cleaned and sun-dried tiger grass panicles. As of last harvest season, the reported average
production volume was 600 bundles per farmer or approximately 80,630 bundles for all
farmers. In seasons of low production, volume ranged from 3 to 1,500 bundles with an
average of 200 bundles per farmer. In seasons of normal produce, volume ranged from 5 to
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3,000 bundles with an average of 400 bundles per farmer. And in seasons of high produce,
volume ranged from 30 to 5,000 bundles with an average of 500 bundles per farmer.
Two tiger grass products were produced in the locality: dried luway, the material
used in making soft brooms; and the soft broom itself (walis tambo). In harvest months, the
tendered price for luway ranged from P10 to P35 per bundle. The average price per bundle
was P12. During off-peak months, the tendered price increased between P12 to P50 and the
average price of each bundle also increased to P20. Price of walis tambo also varied between
peak and off peak months ranging from P10 to P60.
Farmers commonly sold their produce to luway wholesalers and to luway sales
agents. In 2009, the estimated volume of 80,630 bundles were sold to these local agents: Mr.
Manasan of Doña Juana (22,200 bundles), Mr. Robert Gabon (20,830 bundles), other agents
in Mari-Norte (17,450 bundles), Mr. Gaciles of San Andres (8,650 bundles), agent for
Mindoro (4,000 bundles), agent in Mari-Sur (3,600 bundles), agent for Aklan (3,200 bundles)
and agent for Odiongan (700 bundles).
The estimated annual income earned by a farmer for dried luway production alone
was about P9,500. It was found out that an estimated P1,122,500 income could be realized
from this industry representing about 50 percent of the farmers’ total annual income
estimate which was P2,263,000.
Common problems encountered by farmers were lack of financial resource for

clearing, labor pay and seedling acquisition; attack of rodents like rats specially when the
farms were not cleaned; lack of support from the local government in terms of finding a
market; low tendered price for products; poor product quality particularly when it rained
during harvest and drying process; and absence of tiger grass processing facilities.
Given proper attention, focus and sustained support, tiger grass production and soft
broom processing promise a potential multi-million industry for Barangay Marigondon
Norte and for the municipality of San Andres in general. If the industry’s 2009 production
volume of 80,630 bundles can be maintained or improved, it can generate an estimated
revenue of P1M to P2M depending on the prevailing market prices. However, if these raw
materials were to be processed into soft brooms, an estimated 241,890 brooms can be
produced creating an annual revenue ranging from P3.6M to P7.3M. Figures may be higher if
their primitive farming and traditional marketing practices could be improved.
Thus, it was highly recommended that tiger grass farmers in this locality should be
reorganized and a comprehensive plan for the tiger grass industry including soft broom
processing be prepared. Mature tiger grass technologies were also recommended to be
introduced, validated and transferred in the area.
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Background of the Study

Marigondon Norte is one of the 13 barangays of San Andres which is a typical
remote agricultural village, barely reached by technological breakthroughs because of its
rugged trails and far-flung distance (about 14-18km) from the town proper. The residents
are dependent on coconut and copra making. The production of copra is quarterly which
cannot sustain the daily needs of the people. Rice is grown but very minimal. Tiger grass
(luway) farming is one important economic activity in the locality with large areas of land
being devoted to tiger grass farming. Tiger grass production comes every first quarter of
the year and are sold semi-processed or dried.
A considerable number of farmers are engaged in planting and harvesting this crop
and manufacturing brooms out of it. In fact, the crop has been chosen as the
municipality’s One Town, One Product (OTOP). Literature says that about 1.5 to 3 million
pesos worth of tiger grass materials are harvested annually and are sold to nearby
municipality of San Agustin where broom making is the major livelihood. It has been also
noted that worth of tiger grass could double up to 250 percent if they were processed into
brooms. Thus, the activity could be translated into income aside from generating
employment and livelihood among farmers’ housewives and children.
It was reported in the website of DTI-OTOP section that farmers and processors
have been organized already in the municipality. One was the Mari-Norte Development
Association which produces around 60,000 to 80,000 straight weave brooms. The other
one was the Romblon Malipayon Development Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Marigondon
Sur whose capacity of broom production was 90,000 pieces per year. However, these
organizations did not last long.
At present, efforts at rekindling entrepreneurial energies and optimizing the

potential of tiger grass are underway with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on
the lead. However, data gaps have been observed, thus delaying developmental
interventions on tiger grass production. There appears no comprehensive baseline data as
to the identity of the farmers, the farm location and plantation areas and availability of
resource map locators, among others. It has been observed too, that available figures
about the industry in the municipality need to be validated. These concerns imperiled the
identification of the appropriate programs geared towards the establishment of a
comprehensive and sustainable development plan for the industry.
Recognizing the continuing effort of the government to develop rural-based

economic activities and at the same time facilitate the provision of assistance to promising
industries, the need to establish database information system as support mechanism for
the development of the tiger grass industry in the municipality of San Andres is deemed
timely and relevant.
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Objectives of the Study
This study was conducted to profile the tiger grass industry in Marigondon Norte, San
Andres, Romblon during the months of December 2009 and January 2010. Specifically the
survey sought to:
a. Describe the demographic profiles of the tiger grass farmers in terms of sex, age,
civil status and number of dependents;
b. Describe the socio-economic profiles of the tiger grass farmers in terms of highest
educational attainment, estimated annual income, sources of income and
membership in organization;
c. Determine the profiles of the tiger grass industry in terms of type of industry, years
of operation, farm profiles, farm inputs, farm outputs, farming practices and
marketing practices; and
d. Identify the problems encountered by the farmers concerning tiger grass industry.
Significance of the Study

The success stories of small and medium enterprises that were able to penetrate
the market through the Department of Trade and Industry’s One Town, One Product
Program (OTOP) inspired other towns with rich resources to do the same. Baseline data
from this study are important for government agencies like Department of Science and
Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, and Department of Labor and
Employment for any possible program or project they could introduce in the area. The
local government unit of San Andres particularly the barangay council of Marigondon
Norte will also benefit from this study.
Funds are appropriated by the DOST, DTI, DOLE and other government agencies
for income-generating projects like tiger grass industry. In order for these funds to be
downloaded, project proposals are required. The rich data gathered in this study will help
project proponents to plan out better project proposals from tiger grass farming to tiger
grass processing. Through the results of this study, decisions as to where the starting point
will be in helping the industry can be better made.
The local government of San Andres will be able to update their community
resource map through the data from this study. These data could also serve as
benchmarks in initiating policies about the industry or in introducing interventions to
improve the tiger grass products, the farmers’ behavior and their farming and marketing
practices.
The Research and Development Unit of the Romblon State University can review
the baseline data generated by this study and examine in which aspect it can be of help in
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developing the tiger grass industry in Marigondon Norte. The unit can take the lead in
tiger grass knowledge and technology transfer and techno-demo farms establishment.
Scope and Delimitation of the Study

There were about 130 or more tiger grass farmers identified by the Barangay
Council of Marigondon Norte and key informants. Because some other farmers live too
distant from the Proper, only 100 farmers were interviewed. During the survey, some wives
spoke in behalf of their husbands who were at the farm, these wives however, also helped
their husbands manage their tiger grass farms.
Review of Related Literature and Studies

Tiger Grass Production. Luway (Thysanolaena maxima) is a grass reaching a height
of 2 to 3 meters. The tall, solid stems, which grow in clusters, are erect or weakly
spreading, slender, hard and smooth. Its long and loose, diversely branching flower
clusters at the ends of the stems consist of numerous fine slender branches having very
fine delicate flowers and seeds. It continuously lives from season to season.
There are two species of tiger grass used in the manufacture of softbrooms. These
are scientifically known as Thysanolaena maxima and Phragmites vulgaris of the family
Graminae. Thysanolaena maxima can thrive at low to medium elevations; however it
grows faster in higher elevation. Normally, it grows in open areas particularly in logged-
over areas, mountain slopes and ravines.
Its leaves are linear, about 5 cm wide and 30 cm long, and are alternately arranged
at an interval of 12.5 cm. The panicles which are the main material for softbroom
production has an average length of 50 cm while its stalk measures about 70 cm long. The
panicles which are the preferred material for softbroom making because of their durability
and higher market value, have an average length of 50 cm while its stalk measures about
70 cm long.
On the other hand, Phragmites vulgaris is widely distributed in low and medium
elevations. This variety grows in swamps along muddy streams or in places where there is
stagnant or running water. Its leaves are also linear which are 2 to 3 cm wide and about 20
to 25 cm long. These are arranged alternately at a regular interval of 5 cm. Its panicles are
shorter that those of the Thysanolaena maxima with an average length of about 32 cm.
Moreover, both species are good planting materials for controlling soil erosion and
as agro-forestry crop. The leaves of the plant can be good forage for ruminants like goat,
cattle, and other farm animals like the carabao.
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Tiger grass farming is profitable and a viable livelihood, venture in the uplands.
Investment requirement for establishing plantations is minimal; hence, it is readily
acceptable to the average upland farmer. Income derived from investment could augment
the family's income, thus, satisfying the basic needs. Moreover, tiger grass farming can
prevent or minimize further forest destruction.
The seedlings can be planted bareroot. However, it is advisable to plant potted

stocks for higher survival. As soon as the grass has attained the height of 6-7 cm in seed
boxes, they are transplanted in a 4" x 6" polyethylene bags. Ordinary garden soil and/river
sand is the ideal potting medium for tiger grass. The potted stocks could be kept in the
nursery for 2-4 months before they are planted in the field.
Shooting of the grass is continuous throughout the year. An average of 10 panicles

can be realized per clump in the first year and 38 panicles in the second year of harvest.
Panicle yield per clump increases yearly as the grass matures. It has been observed that
shoot increase were quite high in the first five years following the year planting. The grass
is said to attain its maximum yield on the sixth year, after which the panicle yield
decreases to zero. At an older age, the species need fertilization and cultivation, so as to
maintain their normal yield. The recorded maximum number of flowers yielded by a
clump of tiger grass is 500. It was estimated that the life span of the tiger grass is about 10-
15 years.
A one and one-half year old tiger grass starts producing panicles in good sites.
Panicle is the branching inflorescence in which small flowers are borne along an elongated
axis. The panicles usually develop from October to March every year.
Propagation, Plantation Development and Management

(DENR-CAR, 1992)
In the uplands like in the Cordilleras, the following propagation, plantation

development and management technologies are being recommended by DENR-CAR.
Techniques in propagation. There are two known methods of propagating tiger

grass namely, by seeds and by rootstocks. However, propagating by seeds is rarely done
because spacing between plants cannot be regulated and will take a long time for the plant
to mature and produce panicles. Because of this, propagating tiger grass by rootstock is
commonly used. Clumps of mature tiger grass are uprooted, and the upper portion of the
grass is cut. About 12-15 cm of the culm measured from the rootstock is left and can be
divided into 3 culm individual rootstock.
Site preparation. Rootstocks of tiger grass can be planted directly in prepared

planting sites. But for better results, the following should be observed: Planting sites
should be prepared by completely removing the grass and other undesirable vegetation;
13
strip clearing or spot-ring clearing methods may be employed; and planting holes of about
30-50 cm in diameter shall be prepared for the rootstocks.
Method of planting. As mentioned earlier, Tiger grass can be propagated by seeds

or by rootstocks. But for rootstocks, they are planted in prepared planting holes. Planting
holes of about 30-50 cm in diameter are prepared first before the rootstocks which are
collected from the mother plants are finally planted.
Planting season. For best results, the rootstocks should be planted during the
onset of the rainy season. The plants will produce more shoots and could yield more
panicles.
Spacing between plants. The ideal spacing requirements of Tiger grass when
planted in pure plantation is 4 m x 4 m. If interplanted with other crops like fruit trees,
the recommended spacing is 8 m x 8 m.
Soil and fertilizer requirements. Tiger grass can thrive in many types of soil such as
clay, sandy clay loam, and sandy loam. However, fertilization can be done in areas where
soil nutrients are deficient to enhance growth and flower development of the plants. The
appropriate fertilizer application is 20 grams of NPK (or complete fertilizer) per rootstock
or plant. Fertilizer should be applied 10 cm away from the base of the plant and dug
around to mix the fertilizer with the soil.
Some Cultural Management of the Plantation. The success of a tiger grass

plantation is dependent on the cultural management schemes to be employed. The
following are the recommended management practices to be undertaken:
1. One year after planting, inventory of the mortality should be conducted so that
replanting can be immediately done during the next rainy season.
2. To minimize competition of soil nutrients, space, light and moisture, weeding
should be done during the rainy season when there is abundant growth of
competing vegetation.
3. Fertilization may be done in areas deficient of soil nutrients to enhance growth
and flower development following the rate mentioned earlier.
4. Plantations should be protected from astray animals and wild fires.
Harvesting of Panicles. When the panicles reach a length of about 70 cm and more,
they can already be harvested. The following are some recommended techniques when
harvesting Tiger grass:
1. Cut the panicles with a sharp sickle or bolo when they are still green and soft.
This could ease the cleaning and removal of seeds. Mature ones are hard and
rough, and could result to low quality brooms.
2. When the panicles have been harvested, cut about 90 percent of the aerial
part of the plant so that more tillers/shoots will develop during the next rainy
season.
3. Harvested panicles must be dried under direct sunlight for about 2-3 days.
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4. During and after the drying period, the seeds must be removed by shaking or
patting them lightly against a big stone or a concrete pavement.
5. After drying and cleaning, panicles must be bundled into an average size of
about 7 cm in diameter per bundle. Each bundle consists of an average of 210
panicles.
6. Bundled panicles are then ready for softbroom-making and marketing. The
panicles are then sold and delivered to softbroom manufacturers.
Season of Harvesting. Panicles usually develop from October to March. The best
time therefore to harvest the panicles is during the months of February and March. Make
sure that the panicles reaches the desired length, softness and greenness to produce
quality softbrooms. The age of the panicles to be harvested is 5 months.
Tiger Grass Industry in Romblon

Rising from Grassroots. Servañez and Servañez prepared a technical report
entitled “The Tiger Grass Industry in Romblon-Rising from the Grassroots”. The paper
cited data from the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics that the area planted to tiger grass is
238 hectares in the towns of San Agustin and Calatrava. Broom making from tiger grass
was introduced by a Japanese volunteer 30 years ago but the progress of the industry was
relatively slow. This may be due to the seasonal nature of the resource and the lack of
facilities to support the industry. The lack of storage and drying facilities compounds the
problem.
In order to address the above issues, several agencies began recognizing this multi-
million peso industry. An organization of growers and processors was organized into a
cooperative by the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA). The cooperative was
granted a loan by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Land Bank of the
Philippines (LBP) to expand its plantation. The Department of Science and Technology
(DOST) had conducted a seminar stressing the need for quality control, uniformity of
designs and standards in manufacturing.
Another recent development in the industry was the identification of tiger grass as
the community product in the One-Town-One-Product (OTOP) concept espoused by the
CASAGANAAN cluster of municipalities which include Calatrava, San Agustin, San
Andres, and Santa Maria. In 2003, the local government unit of San Agustin under the
mayorship of Hon. Lourdes C. Madrona received a notice from the Japan International
Cooperation Agency entitling the municipality to a $50,000 grant for the OTOP concept.
The project was implemented in 2004 where a tiger grass processing facility was
established. The facility is composed of working and storage building complete with office
equipment, 5,000 board foot capacity furnace type kiln dryer and woodworking
equipment for the manufacture of broom handles.
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A 1,000 square meter lot for the cooperative was donated by Mrs. Norma de la
Cruz. The LGU forged a memorandum of agreement with the DOST IV and Forest
Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI) which stated that the latter will
provide the blueprints for the dryer and the technical expertise to manage its construction
and oversee its commissioning. The facility began operating in 2005.
With this in full functioning, it is expected that the upcoming harvest seasons
would bring P5 million to P7 million to the industry. This would come from around the
350,000 brooms that would be produced year round. On top of these, it is expected that an
increase in broom prices by at least 10 percent would come as a result of improved design,
better handles and quality-assured raw materials. Added benefits would also be realized
by the cooperative in the manufacture of broom handles. This may be priced at P700,000
if a broom handle may be made at P2. Added income may also be realized from drying
services. At p0.50 per bundle, the cooperative may be able to realize another P500,000 in
the future harvest season.
With this, the project stakeholders and people engaged in the industry are hopeful
that the tiger grass industry would rise at last from its grassroots and make another name
for Romblon as the broom central of the Philippines.
Profile of Tiger Grass Industry in Romblon. The Provincial Science and

Technology Center (PSTC) released quick facts about Tiger Grass Broom Industry in the
province of Romblon. However, these data were not dated such that there were conflicting
figures when cross validated with other literatures. The municipalities of San Agustin and
Calatrava were identified as the main production areas with 78 hectares and 20 hectares of
land devoted to tiger grass growing, respectively. The estimated production volume of raw
tiger grass materials in San Agustin was 15,600 bundles while in Calatrava was 4,000
bundles only. The number of walis tambo produced in San Agustin was 31,500 pieces while
in Calatrava was 8,000 pieces.
There were 217 people involved in tiger grass industry, 194 of these were farmers
while 23 were processors. In San Agustin, there were 176 people involved in the business
where 156 were farmers while 20 were processors. In Calatrava, 41 people were involved in
the business, 38 of them were farmers while 3 were processors. The average daily income
of a worker in the tiger grass broom industry ranged from P75 to P90 per day. The
prevailing price of soft brooms vary across the manner they were bought. Pick-up price
ranged from P12 to P15 per piece while retail price ranged from P20 to P30 per piece.
The soft brooms are marketed to NCR and CALABARZON areas (60%), Panay
(20%), Mindoro (5%), locally (5%) and to the rest country (10%). In order for the
development of this industry to be sustained, the following requirements were worked for:
establishment of a common service drying facility, propagation of new seedlings to
replenish the aging plantation, introduction of new product designs that are price-
competitive and continued skills training to sustain the availability of the labor force.
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PSTC estimated that annual production of luway brooms ranges from 200,000 to
250,000 pieces for San Agustin alone. This however, is inconsistent with the quick facts
data released by the same office (31,500 pieces only). Considering 10 percent contribution
in the level of production from Calatrava, San Andres, and Sibuyan would make a total
production of 280,000 pieces annually worth P5 million pesos or more depending on the
actual factory price. According to PSTC, the demand requirement is almost satisfied, but
the people involved in the production aspect of the industry do not enjoy favorable
economic environment because of the following reasons: present market channels do not
offer favorable returns to the processors because of the presence of too many middlemen
dealing on the product, each dealer imposing different level of pricing and make;
government assistance to improve the technical aspect of the industry is not readily made
available; absence of liberal credit facilities; poor quality of the products; and absence of
local policies about the industry.
Tiger Grass Industry in Doña Juana. A comprehensive profiling study done in

2004 about tiger grass industry in Doña Juana, a tiger grass growing barangay in San
Agustin, revealed that the barrio devotes about 291.10 hectares to tiger grass production or
about 43 percent of the barangay’s 681.82 hectares.
Tiger grass in the barangay is commonly planted as undercrop for coconut.

Planting density varies from 1 x 1 to 3 x 3 meters depending on land form but most
common is the 1.5 x 1.5 meter interval. A hectare of land can be planted with 1,000 to
10,000 hills. A planting density of about 4,500 plants per hectare is commonly observed.
Using suckers, tiger grass is planted during the rainy months of July to December. The
crop bears flowers after a year of planting.
The industry involves around 236 farmers wherein 214 till their own land while 22
are tenants. Engaged in the industry from 2 to 31 years, these farmers possess an average of
12 years farming experience. The broom processing sector comprises about 105 processors
who are mostly farmers at the same time.
Dried tiger grasses are packed for sale by bundling about 100 stalks to form a small
bundle. A bigger bundle measuring about a meter in diameter is then completed by tying-
up together 30 to 40 small bundles. A big bundle consists of 3,000 to 4,000 dried stalks
and weighs about 30 to 36 kilograms.
Two types of brooms are produced based on quality, namely ordinary and special.
An ordinary broom binds 20 to 35 dried stalks while special broom wraps 30 to 50 stalks.
Broom making peaks on the first quarter getting about 70 percent share of total yearly
output. The second quarter contributes 20 percent. The remaining 10 percent is produced
in the July to September period.
In 2004, Doña Juana harvested about 7,853 bundles of tiger grass equivalent to
nearly 267 metric tons and produced about 1,488,443 brooms. It appears that local
processors source out raw materials from other San Agustin barangays or municipalities to
17
sustain the broom-making industry. Market destination includes the local market,
Mindoro, Panay, Batangas, Manila and other Luzon areas.
Tiger Grass Industry in San Andres. In San Andres, Romblon, tiger grass is
usually being propagated and processed into brooms specifically, utility brooms (walis
tambo). It all started from a wild variety and improved when cultured. Phil.-Japan
Cooperation introduced skills in broom making using this fiber as raw materials. In 2005,
94 family heads produced the raw materials, 40% of them, doubles to broom making
which is long in population and the capital involved is short.
As to the performance of this enterprise, sales from raw materials reached

P480,000 to P1.5 million pesos from finished brooms marketed to Metro Manila and the
nearby Panay provinces. The annual production volume was 1,200 bundles (60,000
finished brooms) where each bundle is 1 meter in circumference. This enterprise is labor
intensive, providing more jobs to old and young people.
Two producers of tiger grass in San Andres were identified by the Department of
Trade and Industry (DTI). One was the Mari-Norte Development Association which
produces straight weave with linear length of 52 centimeters and ½ kilogram net weight
per broom wrapped in strips red, blue colored tying plastic. The association was also
making brooms for household use. Prices ranged from P20 to P40 pesos per piece, but
orders could be made for 60,000 to 80,000 volumes. The SME has a product capacity of
100,000 pieces per year. Another SME was the Romblon Malipayon Development Multi-
Purpose Cooperative in Marigondon Sur claiming a broom production capacity of 90,000
pieces per year.
In a project proposal about Techno-Demo Forum on Tiger Grass Technologies, the

Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSTC-Romblon) claimed that tiger grass
industry in San Andres, Romblon is said to be already becoming a flourishing industry
with 126 hectares of land being devoted for farming. The document reported that there are
about 120 farmers engaged in planting and harvesting this crop and manufacturing
brooms out of it. Their products are being absorbed by the San Agustin market. The
annual tiger grass harvest is estimated to be P1 million pesos. DOST through PCIERD was
proposing the purchase of an inflorescence remover developed by researchers at Don
Mariano Marcos State University. This technology, if approved is expected to improve the
post-harvest processing of the tiger grass as well as its quality. According to the document,
tiger grass inflorescence in San Andres is traditionally removed by striking the tiger grass
bundles against a tree or some hard objects. This poses risk on the health of the processor
who may inhale the scattered pollens. This process also weakens the tiger grass stalks.
18
Research Framework
▪ PROFILES OF TIGER GRASS

FARMERS
▫ Demographics
[sex, age, civil status, number of
dependents] D
▫Socio-economics
E
[highest educational attainment,
estimated annual income, sources V ▪ Values Formation
of income, membership in E ▪ Social Empowerment
organization] L ▪ Human Capability Building
▪ Community Building
O
(through Cooperative
P Formation)
▪ PROFILES OF TIGER GRASS M
INDUSTRY
E ▪ Funding Assistance
▫ Type of Tiger Grass Industry
▫ Years of Engagement in the
N ▪ Techno-demo Fora
Industry T ▪ Training
▫ Farm Profile A ▪ Technology Transfer
[farm location, estimated farm L [farming practices, post-
area, land tenure, distance of harvest technologies]
farm from home, land use] ▪ Processing Facilities
▫ Farm Inputs ▪ Marketing Assistance
I
[estimated annual farm expenses,
farm help, daily wage of farm N
helpers] T
▫ Farm Outputs E
[production volume, tendered R
price for products, estimated V
annual income from the industry]
E
▫ Farming Practices
[Ideal time for planting, farm N
implements used, number of T
tillers per hole, intervals between I
holes, frequency of clearing and O
weeding] N
▫ Marketing Practices and Buyers of
Produce
▫ Problems Encountered
Figure 1. Research Framework
19
Definition of Terms
Developmental intervention refers to any activity conducted to improve behavior,
practices and products.
Farm inputs refers to the resources utilized in order to propagate, produce or
process tiger grass products. This includes the estimated annual farm expenses, farm help
and daily wage of farm helpers.
Farm outputs refers to the farm production in terms of production volume,
tendered price for products and estimated annual income from the industry.
Farming practices refers to the activities practiced by the farmers from tiger grass
farm preparation, planting, growing, harvesting and post-harvest practices.
Marketing practices refers to the activities practiced by the farmers in selling their
products.
Panicle refers to a cluster of flowers on a plant attached to an individual stalk.
Tiger grass (luway) is a plant species belonging to grass family that grows to a
height of 2 to 3 meters whose long and loose diversely branching flower clusters are
processed to produce a utility soft broom locally called walis tambo.
Tiger grass industry refers to any economic activity that involves either the
propagation and production of tiger grass or the processing of these grasses into walis
tambo or both.
Research Design
Since the very purpose of the study was to describe the current condition of the
tiger grass farmers, the tiger grass industry and the problems they encountered, the
research method used was descriptive. Below is the schematic diagram of the design
followed in conducting this study.
Preparation Identification of
of the the Universe Selection of the
Interview Schedule/ through 100 samples
Validation KII
Data Processing
Actual Survey
and Analysis
Figure 2. Research Design
20
The Locale and Time of Study
Figure 3. Spot Map of Marigondon Norte
Locale. Marigondon Norte is a tiger grass growing village in San Andres, Romblon.
It is located on the northeasternmost part of the municipality along with the mountainous
region of central Tablas. It has a total land area of approximately 2,800 hectares and a
population of about 1,175 (2005). There are about 221 households in the area.
Transportation is a major problem in the village because it is about 18km away

from the town proper and the roads that cut through the mountains and rivers although
passable are really in bad shape and condition. It can be reached by a single motorcycle or
a service truck via the Jun Carlo or Mari-Sur routes. Travel time lasts from 45 minutes to
21
one hour. It can also be reached by brisk walk lasting from 2 to 3 hours. Shown in Figure 3
is the spot map of Mari-Norte and its location alongside with other barangays in the
municipality of San Andres.
Time of Study. This study was conducted from December 2009 to February 2010.
The actual survey took place from December 28 to 31, 2009 and January 9 and 10, 2010.
The Samples
Based on the list provided by the Barangay Council of Mari-Norte, there were 115
tiger grass farmers in the area. But during the actual survey, there were about 15 more who
were identified by the key informants as tiger grass farmers, who were not enlisted. The
technique used in sample selection was purposive but sample size was delimited to 100
due to financial and time constraints. The table below shows the samples taken from each
sitio.
Table 1
Distribution of Samples
PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS FREQUENCY PERCENT
Residence
Lindero 10 10
Proper 19 19
Hagimit Big 24 24
Hagimit Small 5 5
Hagnaya 16 16
Naruntan 22 22
Ambunan 4 4
Total 100 100
The Research Instrument

Nature and Purpose. The data-gathering instrument used in this study was a
structured interview schedule. It asked pertinent data about the tiger grass farmer profile,
tiger grass industry profile and problems encountered relevant to tiger grass industry. The
interview schedule was a combination of closed and open-ended questions. It was worded
in Filipino to ensure that the questions were understood by the respondents.
Validation. The interview questionnaire was validated by two employees from the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial office and an instructor at RSU. Their
suggestions were incorporated in the final questionnaire. It was pre-tested among five
former tiger grass farmers which were already living in San Andres town proper.
22
Data Collection and Data Source

The method of data collection employed was a survey particularly the face-to-face
structured interview technique. The questionnaire for interview was used in gathering
information. Sources of information include the following: the barangay captain provided
the list of tiger grass farmers in the locality, the Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman served
as a guide in locating the homes of the farmers, previous officials of the barangay council
also helped in identifying tiger grass farmers who were not included in the list, and the
tiger grass farmers who provided first-hand information about the tiger grass industry.
Method of Data Processing and Analysis

Results of the interview were systematically encoded with the aid of coding
manual and coding sheets. These were processed using the program Microsoft Excel. MS
Excel data files were converted into an SPSS format (Statistical Packages for Social
Sciences). The statistical measures used in analyzing the data were frequency count,
range, median (when there were extreme values) and mean.
Results and Discussion

Profile of Tiger Grass Farmers
Shown in Table 2 are the profiles of the farmers engaged in tiger grass industry in
terms of sex, age, civil status, and number of dependents.
Table 2
Demographic Profiles of Tiger Grass Farmers
DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILES FREQUENCY PERCENT
A. Sex
Male 71 71
Female 29 29
Total 100 100
B. Age
Less than 25 3 3
25-34 26 26
35-44 28 28
45-54 23 23
55-64 13 13
65 and above 7 7
Total 100 100
Median: 42 Min.: 22 Max.: 79
Table 1 continued on the next page…
23
DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILES FREQUENCY PERCENT

C. Civil Status
Single 8 8
Married 89 89
Widow/er 3 3
Total 100 100
D. Number of Dependents
Less than 3 20 20
3-5 46 46
6-8 25 25
9 and above 6 6
None 3 3
Total 100 100
Median: 4 Min.: 1 Max.: 14
Sex. Table 2 shows that 71 percent of the tiger grass farmers are males while 29
percent are females. This indicates that tiger grass farming is not limited to the male
farmers alone but also among the female residents of the area.
Age. The age of those engaged in tiger grass farming ranged from 22 to 79 years
old. The average age was 42. Table 2 shows that 28 percent were between 35 to 44 years
old, 26 percent were between 25-34 years old, 23 percent were between 45 to 54 years old,
13 percent were between 55 to 64 years old, 7 percent were 65 years old and above and 3
percent were less than 25 years old. Around 57 percent of these farmers were 44 years old
and below.
Civil Status. In terms of civil status of the farmers, 89 percent were married, 8
percent were single and 3 percent were widowed/er. The added responsibility of having a
family to provide for might be one of the reasons why these farmers resorted to farming
tiger grass to generate additional income. Appended in this paper is a case study of a
widow, Mrs. Hanny Gadon, whose main source of livelihood is tiger grass farming and
walis tambo making.
Number of Dependents. Almost all of the respondents have dependents except for 3
percent who declared none. The number of dependents ranged from 1 to 14 per farmer
with an average of 4 dependents. Table 2 shows that 46 percent of these farmers have 3 to
5 dependents, 25 percent have 6 to 8 dependents, 20 percent have less than 3 dependents,
and 6 percent have 9 or more dependents. The pressure to provide for these dependents
might also be one of the reasons that compelled the respondents to engage in tiger grass
farming.
Table 3 presents the socio-economic profiles of the tiger grass farmers particularly
their highest educational attainment, estimated annual income, source of income and
membership in organization.
24
Table 3
Socio-Economic Profiles of Tiger Grass Farmers
SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROFILES FREQUENCY PERCENT
A. Highest Educational Attainment
None 1 1
Elementary level 13 13
Elementary graduate 24 24
High school level 30 30
High school graduate 20 20
Vocational graduate 3 3
College level 5 5
College graduate 4 4
Total 100 100
B. Estimated Annual Income
Less than P20,000 43 43
P20,000-P39,000 42 42
P40,000-P59,000 7 7
P60,000-P79,000 3 3
P80,000-P99,000 2 2
P100,000 and above 3 3
Total 100 100
Median: P20,500 Min.: P2,500 Max.: P130,000 Sum: P2,683,000
C. Sources of Income
Tiger grass farming 100 100
Copra Production 92 92
Poultry 23 23
Tiger grass processing 14 14
Nito Handicrafts 9 9
Driving (single motorcycle) 6 6
Manual labor 3 3
Palay Farming 2 2
Carpentry 1 1
Piggery 1 1
Sari-sari Store 1 1
Cocobroom production 1 1
E. Membership in Organization
None 76 76
Women’s Organization 10 10
Barangay Council 8 8
Taytay sa Kauswagan, Inc. 3 3
Senior Citizen 3 3
Total 100 100
Highest Educational Attainment. Table 3 shows that 30 percent of the respondents

reached at least high school level, 24 percent were elementary graduates, 20 percent were
high school graduate, 13 percent were elementary level, 5 percent were college level, 4
25
percent were college graduate, 3 percent were vocational graduate and 1 percent disclosed
that he never had a formal education. Almost 88 percent of these respondents could be
presumed to have been lacking the competencies needed in today’s competitive workforce
and thus resorted to common traditional agricultural activities. This percentage of not
pursuing a tertiary education could be attributed to poverty and the area’s distance from
the nearest tertiary school, among others.
Estimated Annual Income. The estimated annual income of these farmers ranged
from P2,500 to P130,000 with an average annual income of P20,500 or around P1,708 a
month. The sum of their income taken all together was P2,683,000. Table 3 shows that 43
percent of them earned an annual income of less than P20,000, 42 percent earned between
P20,000 to P39,000, 7 percent earned P40,000 to P59,000, 3 percent earned between
P60,000 to P79,000, 3 percent earned P100,000 and more and 2 percent earned between
P80,000 to P99,000. These income categories confirmed the fact that around 85 percent
could hardly earn P5,000 a month for subsistence which would probably imply that these
farmers represent the poor societal class.
Sources of Income. The farmers’ sources of income were as follows: tiger grass
farming (100%), copra production (92%), poultry (23%), tiger grass processing (14%), nito
handicrafts (9%), ‘single’ driving (6%), manual labor (3%), carpentry (1%), piggery (1%),
sari-sari store (1%) and coconut broom making (1%). From this data, it can be said that
tiger grass farming is a major economic activity in the area since all of these farmers
identified it as a major income source.
Membership in Organization. It can be seen from Table 3 that 76 percent of these

farmers were not affiliated with any social organization thus, limiting their participation
in social functions and activities. However, 10 percent of them were members of a
women’s organization, 8 percent were members of the barangay council, 3 percent were
members of Taytay sa Kauswagan Inc., and 3 percent were members of Senior Citizen’s
Organization. This finding brings out an important issue of social empowerment. It can be
said that these farmers are less empowered probably because they are poor, and poor
because they are probably not empowered.
Profiles of the Tiger Grass Industry
The subsequent tables present the profiles of the tiger grass industry in terms of
industry and farm profiles, economic profile, farm inputs, farm outputs, farming and
marketing practices. Table 4 presents the tiger grass industry profile.
26
Table 4
Profiles of Tiger Grass Industry
INDUSTRY PROFILE FREQUENCY PERCENT
A. Type of Industry
Tiger grass farming 86 86
Both tiger grass farming and processing 14 14
Total 100 100
B. Number of years in the tiger grass farming industry
Less than 5 9 9
5-9 25 25
10-14 20 20
15-19 13 13
20-24 18 18
25-29 7 7
30 and above 8 8
Total 100 100
Median: 10.5 Min. 1 Max: 38
C. Number of years in the tiger grass processing industry
10-19 5 36
20-29 6 43
30 and above 3 21
Total 14 100
Median: 20 Min. 10 Max: 38
Tiger grass farming (86%) was the major tiger grass industry activity while only 14
percent of the farmers engaged both in tiger grass farming and processing. According to
Santo Niño Agustin, a 61-year old tiger grass farmer:
Pag himuon pa nga walis tambo ang luway hay mahaba nga
proseso. Kailangan pa it manugtistis ag manughimo et
harawidan. Mabayad ka pa it tawo. Hay kung kailangan ron
gid bay ang kwarta? Mas dali tana nga ibaligya lagi eh.(If tiger
grass were to be made into soft broom, it entails a long process.
We will still need additional help and we are still going to pay
them. What if we badly need money? It would be easier to sell
them raw.)
Although attempts were made by the Department of Science and Technology to

encourage farmers to process and some local processors were sent to a training in
Benguet, the intervention was short-lived probably because the locals preferred quick
cash. Besides, facilities were inadequate.
In a follow up interview with Brgy. Captain Robert Gadon, he explained this

phenomenon to be related with a sustained market. He said that if market for their
products particularly walis tambo could be established and sustained; if the buying price
27
for luway is as competitive as the tendered price in Doña Juana; and if they have funds to
hold the raw materials in the locality, then many people would take the business by heart.
Many would be interested to increase their produce. Capt. Gabon added that given the
proper specifications of walis tambo, many of the constituents knew how to make
softbrooms which could meet the market quality standards.
The number of years by which farmers in the area have been farming tiger grass
ranged from 1 to 38 years, the median of which was 10 and a half years. Particularly, 25
percent of them have been planting this crop for 5 to 9 years already, 20 percent were 10 to
14 years, 18 percent were 20 to 24 years, 13 percent were 15 to 19 years, 9 percent were less
than 5 years, 8 percent were 30 years and above and 7 percent were 25 to 29 years. It can
be said that tiger grass farming is already a long time economic activity in Mari-Norte.
Meanwhile, the number of years by which the 14 tiger grass farmers and processors
have been in the industry ranged from 10 to 38 years, the median of which was 20 years. Of
these, 6 have been in both business from 20 to 29 years, 5 for 10 to 19 years and 3 for 30
years and above. Although very few of the farmers farm and process the raw materials into
soft brooms, it could be deduced that both economic activities can be maintained for a
longer time. The profile of tiger grass farms is presented in Table 5.
Table 5
Profile of Tiger Grass Farms
FARM PROFILE FREQUENCY PERCENT
A. Location of Farm
Ambunan 26 26
Hagnaya 25 25
Naruntan 21 21
Hagimit Big 12 12
Lindero 11 11
Hagimit Small 5 5
Total 100 100
B. Estimated area of tiger grass farm (in hectares)
Less than .5 8 8
0.5-0.9 28 28
1-1.99 38 38
2-2.99 18 18
3-3.99 3 3
4 and above 5 5
Total 100 100
Median: 1 Min.: 0.3 Max.: 9
C. Land Tenure
Owner 64 64
Tenant 28 28
Renting 4 4
Government grant 4 4
28
FARM PROFILE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Total 100 100
D. Distance of farm from home (in km)
Less than 1 13 13
1 24 24
2 37 37
3 16 16
4 3 3
5 7 7
Total 100 100
Mean: 1.86km Minimum: 0 Maximum: 5
E. Land Use
Planted with tiger grass with coconut and 89 89
other rootcrops
Planted with palay first and then tiger grass 22 22
Planted with tiger grass only 10 10
Location of Farm. As reported by the respondents, their tiger grass farms were
concentrated in the following villages: Ambunan (26%), Hagnaya (25%), Naruntan (21%),
Hagimit (12%), Lindero (11%) and Hagimit Small (5%).
Estimated Area of Tiger Grass Farm. The estimated area of tiger grass farm ranged
from 0.3 ha. to 9 has.. The average size of farm was 1 hectare. The farmers reported that 38
percent of them cultivated a tiger grass farm which ranged from 1 ha. to 1.99 has., 28
percent were cultivating 0.5 to 0.9 hectares, 8 percent reported a farm size that was less
than 0.5 ha., 5 percent reported a farm size that was 4 has. and above while 3 percent said
that the size of their farm was between 3 has. to 3.99 has. The overall estimated area of
tiger grass plantation represented by the farms of these tiger grass farmers was 130.6
hectares. The figure below shows the distribution of farm areas by village.
Figure 4. Pie graph for estimated areas of tiger grass farm per sitio (in has.)
29
Land Tenure. As to the tenure or rights of the farmers on the land they were
farming, 64 percent reported that they were the owners of their farms, 28 percent were
tenants, 4 percent were renting and the other 4 percent were granted by the government
to them. There is a higher percentage that land owners opted to plant their own lots with
tiger grass in order for it to be productive.
Distance of farm from home. Almost all respondents were not home during day
time thus the survey was conducted during early morning and dusk. Distance of farms
from home ranged from a few walk to 5 km away. The usual distance was 1.86 km. About
37 percent of the farmers said that their farms were 2 km-walk away from their home, 24
percent reported 1km, 16 percent said that theirs were 3 km away, 13 percent indicated that
their farms were less than 1 km away, 7 percent reported 5 km and 3 percent reported 4
km. It can be figured out that these farmers had to walk a kilometer or two towards their
tiger grass farms. This is indicative that tiger grass farming does not demand much time
on the part of the farmer unlike other crops.
Land Use. The tiger grass farms were also planted with coconut and other
rootcrops (89%), with palay (22%) while others were solely dedicated to tiger grass
plantation (10%).
Crop Calendar. Almost all farmers in the area followed the same crop calendar.
They were preparing the farm through the slash and burn (kaingin) system as early as
January. This usually lasted up to February. By May, the land was ready for the sowing of
palay seeds. Around June or July, when the palays were already about a foot tall, tiger
grasses were planted alongside with the palay. By September or October, palays were
harvested but the tiger grasses were left growing. By January to February, the tiger grasses
began to produce flowers and by March or April, these flowers were harvested. According
to Tay Isaac Francisco, one of the owners of vast plantation, the tiger grass farm will
remain as such even for the next 20 years as long as it is cleaned and managed well. This is
one advantage of the kaingin system. While areas are cleared for palay ang tiger grass
plantation, eventually the land will become a tiger grass farm. Literature suggests that the
fibrous roots of the tiger grass made it a very good erosion controller.
Farm Inputs
Shown in Table 6 are the farm inputs needed in tiger grass production like the
expenses incurred and farm help.
Estimated Annual Expenses on Tiger Grass Production. Although tiger grass harvest
season comes only once a year, it can be seen from the table that the estimated expenses a
year to manage a tiger grass farm ranged from P100 to P15,000. The average expense was
P2,000 per year. About 30 percent of the farmers reported an annual expense ranging from
P1,000 to P1,999; 22 percent said they spent P2,000 to P2,999; 14 percent stated that they
spent P3,000 to P3,999; 11 percent said they spent P5,000 to P5,999; 11 percent also said the
30
expenses they incurred were P6,000 ; 10 percent reported an expense that is less than
P1,000 and 2 percent said they spent P4,000 to P4,999. The data speak well that engaging
into a tiger grass farming business does not necessarily require a huge amount of
monetary inputs. Their total expenses was P284,600.
Table 6
Farm Inputs in Tiger Grass Production
FARM INPUTS FREQUENCY PERCENT
A. Estimated Annual Expenses on tiger grass production (in pesos)
Less than P1,000 10 10
P1,000-P1,999 30 30
P2,000-P2,999 22 22
P3,000-P3,999 14 14
P4,000-P4,999 2 2
P5,000-P5,999 11 11
Total 100 100
Median: P2,000 Min.: P100 Max.: P15,000 Sum: P284,600
B. Relationship to farm helper
Family Member 68 68
Neighbor 10 10
Nephew 8 8
Cousin 7 7
Friend 6 6
No helper needed 1 1
Total 100 100
C. Daily Wage of farm helpers
P100/day 4 4
P120/day 25 25
P130/day 2 2
P150/day 12 12
Free 55 55
Pakyaw (Contract) 1 1
No helper needed 1 1
Total 100 100
Relationship to Farm Helper. When asked if farm help was needed, only one
percent of the respondents was reported to be needing no help. The rest said that they
needed farm help. Farm helpers were usually members of the family (68%), neighbors
(10%), nephews (8%), cousins (7%) and friends (6%). This finding is suggestive that tiger
grass industry is a family business affair.
Daily Wage of Farm Helpers. Farmers reported that farm helpers usually worked
from one to three days depending on the area of the farm. They also reported that 55
percent of them do not pay their farm helpers. However 25 percent of these farmers paid
31
P120 a day for farm help, 12 percent paid P150 a day, 4 percent paid P100 a day, 2 percent
paid their helpers P130 a day while 1 percent contracted (pakyaw) whatever work is to be
done in farm. For contracted farm works, farmers usually paid the helpers about P3,000.
Farm Outputs
This section presents and discusses the farm outputs in terms of production
volume, tendered price for tiger grass products and estimated annual income for tiger
grass products. Table 7 shows the production of tiger grass last harvest season.
Table 7
Production Volume of Tiger Grass Last Harvest Season
PRODUCTION VOLUME FREQUENCY PERCENT
(in bundles*)
Less than 500 48 48
500-999 13 13
1,000-1,499 25 25
1,500-1,999 5 5
2,000-2,499 6 6
2,500 and above 3 3
Total 100 100
Median: 600 Min.: 30 Max.: 5,000 Sum: 80,530
Production volume. Production volume was measured in terms of bundles where

one bundle is made up of 100 panicles of cleaned and sun-dried tiger grass flowers. As of
last harvest season, 48 percent of the farmers reported that they were able to produce 30
to 5,000 bundles of dried luway, the local term for tiger grass. The average production
volume was 600 bundles. It can be seen from Table 7 that 48 percent of the farmers
produced less than 500 bundles, 25 percent produced 1,000 to 1,499 bundles, 13 percent
yielded a production volume of 500 to 999 bundles, 6 percent produced 2,000 to 2,499
bundles, 5 percent produced 1,500 to 1,999 bundles and 3 percent produced 2,500 bundles
and more. Just last harvest season (2009), the sample respondents were able to produce
80,530 bundles of dried luway.
Tiger grass production is not always stable, there were times when production was
low, high or just enough. Table 8 shows the estimated production volume of tiger grass
across seasons of low, usual and high production.
In seasons of low produce, tiger grass farmers were only harvesting 3 to 1,500
bundles with an average of 200 bundles per farmer. In seasons of usual produce, farmers
were able to harvest 5 to 3,000 bundles with an average of 400 bundles per farmer. In
seasons of high produce, farmers were harvesting 30 to 5,000 bundles with an average of
500 bundles per farmer.
32
Table 8
Production Volume Across Seasons of Low, Usual and High Production
PRODUCTION LOW USUAL HIGH
VOLUME (in bundles) PRODUCTION PRODUCTION PRODUCTION
F % F % F %
Less than 500 91 91 70 70 51 51
500-999 3 3 20 20 15 15
1,000-1,499 5 5 5 5 23 23
1,500-1,999 1 1 1 1 4 4
2,000-2,499 0 0 3 3 4 4
2,500 and above 0 0 1 1 3 3
Total 100 100 100 100 100 100
Median 200 400 500
Minimum 3 5 30
Maximum 1500 3,000 5,000
Table 9 presents the tendered price asked by purchasers on the tiger grass
products during off and peak seasons. Usually, tendered prices were low during harvest
(peak) season and higher during off-peak months.
Table 9
Tendered Price for Tiger Grass Products
TENDERED PRICE FOR TIGER DRIED LUWAY WALIS
GRASS PRODUCTS (PER BUNDLE) TAMBO
(IN PESOS) PEAK OFF-PEAK PEAK OFF-PEAK
F % F % F % F %
P10-P19 96 96 23 23 9 64.3 2 14.3
P20-P29 3 3 62 62 4 28.6 4 28.6
P30-P39 1 1 14 14 0 0 7 50
P40-P49 0 0 0 0 1 7.1 0 0
P50 and above 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 7.1
Total 100 100 100 100 14 100 14 100
Median P12 P20 P15 P30
Minimum P10 P12 P10 P12
Maximum P35 P50 P40 P60
Tendered Price for Tiger Grass Products. Two tiger grass products were identified:
dried luway, the material used in making soft brooms; and the soft broom itself (walis
tambo). During peak months when luway is abundant the tendered price ranged from P10
to P35 per bundle. The average price per bundle was P12. During off-peak months, the
tendered price increased from P12 to P50 and the average price of each bundle also
increased to P20.
According to Brgy. Captain Robert Gabon, walis tambo made from Mari-Norte
usually contains more panicles than others. He said that their local processors produced
33
only two soft brooms in every bundle as compared to other processors who produced
three soft brooms (ordinary) from one bundle. Mr. Gabon was trying to point out that
their brooms were thicker than others. According to literature, each ordinary soft broom
sold in San Agustin is composed of 20 to 35 panicles only while each special soft broom is
composed of about 30 to 50 panicles.
Another measure of farm output was the estimated annual income generated from
tiger grass production.
Table 10
Estimated Annual Income from Tiger Grass Production
ESTIMATED ANNUAL INCOME FROM FREQUENCY PERCENT
TIGER GRASS PRODUCTION
Less than P5,000 17 17
P5,000-P9,999 33 33
P10,000-P14,999 17 17
P15,000-P19,999 13 13
P20,000-P24,999 11 11
P25,000-P29,999 3 3
Total 100 100
Median: P9,500 Min.: P1,000 Max.: P50,000 Sum: P1,122,500
The estimated annual income farmers earned from engaging in tiger grass industry
alone ranged from P1,000 to P50,000. The average annual income per farmer was P9,500.
The estimated income from this industry of all the farmers surveyed totaled to P1,122,500,
which represented about 50 percent of their total annual income estimate which was
P2,263,000 (see Table 3). It can be seen from Table 10 that 33 percent of the farmers earned
an annual income between P5,000 to P9,999, 17 percent earned less than P5,000, 17
percent earned P10,000 to P14,999, 11 percent earned from P20,000 to P24,999, 6 percent
earned P30,000 and above and 3 percent earned between P25,000 to P29,999.
Farming Practices
Ideal Time for Planting. According to all the farmers interviewed, the ideal months
for planting tiger grass are during wet months, usually from June to July. They did not
have any day or time preference for planting tiger grass because the crop can be planted
any time and any day within the said months. No superstitions related to tiger grass
planting were reported.
Farm Implements Used in Planting. Table 11 shows the different farm implements
used in planting tiger grass.
34
Table 11
Farm Implements Used in Planting
FARM IMPLEMENTS USED IN PLANTING FREQUENCY PERCENT
Tara-tara 50 50
Tagad 40 40
Bolo 36 36
Pala (shovel) 13 13
Piko (hoe) 9 9
Farmers used various implements in planting tiger grass. Tara-tara, a sharp

rectangular iron attached to a long wooden handle was used by 50 percent of the farmers.
Tagad, a long piece of wood tapered in one end was used by 40 percent of the farmers.
Other farm implements used were bolo (36%), pala (13%) and piko (9%).
Shown in Table 12 are the other practices observed by tiger grass farmers.
Table 12
Tiger Grass Farming Practices
PRACTICES IN TIGER GRASS FARMING FREQUENCY PERCENT
A. Number of hills per hole
1-5 93 93
6-10 7 7
Total 100 100
B. Distance between holes (in m)
1 73 73
1.5 23 23
3 4 4
Total 100 100
C. Frequency of Clearing and Weeding
Once a Year 49 49
Twice a Year 31 31
Thrice a Year 20 19
Number of Hills per Hole. As shown in Table 12, the common practice of 90 percent
of the farmers was to plant 1 to 5 hills (seedlings) per hole. The other 7 percent placed 6 to
10 hills in a hole.
Distance Between Holes. About 73 percent of the farmers observed a 1 meter-

distance or space between holes, 23 percent practiced 1.5-m spacing while 4 percent
observed a 3-m spacing. With this practice, a hectare of land can be planted with 1,000 to
10,000 hills.
Frequency of Clearing and Weeding. All farmers reported that weeding and clearing
the underside of the plants are factors that are associated with flowering. About 49
35
percent of the farmers were clearing and wedding their farms once a year, 31 percent were
doing these twice a year and 20 percent were doing these thrice a year.
Harvest and Post-harvest Practices. All farmers have almost the same harvest and
post-harvest practices like cutting the stalks while the flowers are still green and are not
yet fully mature, flowers are sun dried for three days, and sun dried flowers are patted
against rocks to shake off the pollens. These practices are very traditional and are thus
laborious on the part of the farmers.
Marketing Practices
Presented in Table 13 are the marketing practices for tiger grass products.
Table 13
Marketing Practices for Tiger Grass Products
MARKETING PRACTICES FREQUENCY PERCENT
Directly sold to luway wholesalers 64 64
Directly sold to luway sales agents 36 36
Delivered to walis tambo sales agents 5 5
Retailed to stores that sell walis tambo 1 1
House to house marketing of walis tambo 1 1
The marketing practices of the tiger grass products were very traditional. Farmers
commonly sold their produce to luway wholesalers (64%), to luway sales agents (36%),
walis tambo sales agents (1%), and house-to-house selling of walis tambo (15). There
seemed to be a lot of middlemen in marketing the products leading to their low tendered
price.
When farmers were asked as to where they sold they produce, they enumerated
names of purchasers as reflected in Table 14.
Table 14
Buyers of Dried Luway
BUYERS OF DRIED LUWAY FREQUENCY PERCENT
Brgy. Capt. Gabon-Norte 32 32
Other Agents- Norte 31 31
Mr. Manasan-Doña Juana 21 21
Mr. Gaciles-San Andres 5 5
Agent-Aklan 5 5
Agent-Mindoro 3 3
Agent-Mari-Sur 3 3
Agent- Odiongan 2 2
Around 32 percent of the farmers sold their produce to Mr. Robert Gabon, the
barangay captain of Mari-Norte, 31 percent passed their produce to other sales agents in
36
the barangay, 21 percent passed their products to Mr. Manasan of Doña Juana in San
Agustin, 5 percent sold their products to Mr. Gaciles of Poblacion, San Andres, 5 percent
to an agent from Aklan, 3 percent to an agent from Mindoro, 3 percent to an agent in
Mari-Sur and 2 percent to an agent from Odiongan.
These samples of farmers reported an estimated production volume of 80,630
bundles last harvest (see Table 7). The graph below shows where these bundles were sold.
Figure 5. Buyers and Volume of Dried Luway Bought (in bundles)
Based on the above data, an annual production volume of 80,630 bundles are
estimated to generate a revenue between P967,560 to P1,612,600. This is based on the price
of bundles for off and peak months (P12 and P20). This is to consider the P284,600
estimated expenses incurred for tiger production among these 100 farmers. In fact these
100 farmers reported in Table 10 that their cumulative income from tiger grass alone was
P1,122,500, a figure that is within the range of forecast.
However, if these dried luway were to be made into ordinary soft brooms and
assuming that a bundle can produce three ordinary pieces of soft brooms, from the said
production volume, an estimated 241,890 soft brooms can be made. If these brooms were
to be sold at a price based on peak and off-peak months (P30 and P15), it would generate
revenues ranging from P3.6M to P7.3M.
Problems Encountered
Tiger grass farmers also enumerated the problems they were experiencing that
have something to do with tiger grass production. Table 25 shows the identified problems.
37
These problems were lack of financial resource for clearing, labor pay and seedling
acquisition (71%), attack of rodents like rats specially when the farms are not cleaned
(66%), lack of support from the local government in terms of finding a market (65%), the
tendered price for products was low (32%), poor quality of products particularly when
they got wet during harvest (15%) and during the drying process (27%), absence of tiger
grass processing facilities (20%), difficulty of transporting the products (4%) and typhoon
(2%). During natural calamities, farmers reported that it just took a year so that they can
recover from whatever losses or damage the typhoon brought.
Brgy. Capt. Robert Gabon reiterated a lot of times that their major problem is the
market for their products. If there is a sure market, tendered price for luway will increase
and with that, energy of the people to process luway into soft brooms would probably be
rekindled.
Table 15
Problems Encountered by Farmers in Tiger Grass Farming
PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED FREQUENCY PERCENT
Lack of financial source for clearing, labor pay and 71 71
seedlings acquisition
Rats are attacking the uncleared or unweeded farm 66 66
Lack of support from the local government, that is 65 65
why most of the raw materials are marketed
outside the municipality.
Agent’s tendered price for product is low 32 32
Quality of tiger grass product becomes poor when 27 27
it gets wet during the drying process
Absence of tiger grass processing facilities and 20 20
area.
Quality of tiger grass product becomes poor when 15 15
it is rains during harvest
Difficulty of transporting the products. 4 4
Typhoon 2 2
Comparison of Data on Tiger Grass Industry

Table 16 shows some data that were confirmed by the present survey. These data
were the only ones discussed in previous literatures about tiger grass industry in San
Andres, Romblon.
The previous claims on number of tiger grass farmers are close to the present
estimates. It could be that interest in processing died down (from 40% to 14%) or previous
data were overly estimated that resulted to the wide discrepancy between previous and
present data (26%) on the percentage of farmers doubling as processors. Or it could be
because other farmers in three other barangays namely Jun Carlo, Marigondon Sur and
Victoria were not counted in this study. The statistic on farm size has a 10 hectare variance
from the estimated parameter. Production volume of raw materials are far higher in actual
38
(2,000 to 2,700) than in previous estimates (1,200). With that volume, the broom
production capacity was estimated to 241,890 pieces, much higher than the previous data
estimates (60,000 to 90,000). The estimate on sales (P1M) was within the actual range of
P0.96 to P1.6M. Using data from these samples, price of soft broom declined by about P5
to P10.
Table 16
Comparison of Some Data on Tiger Grass Industry
CHARACTERISTICS PARAMETERS STATISTIC
for 100 farmers (2010)
Number of Tiger Grass Farmers 94 (2004) About 130
120 (latest)
Percentage of Tiger Grass Farmers 40% 14%
doubling as Processors
Estimated Farm Size (in has.) 126 130.6 has.
Estimated Production Volume 1,200 2,000 to 2,700
(in bundles)* (80,630 smaller bundles)
Estimated Sales from Raw Materials P0.48 to P1.5M (2004) P0.96M to P1.6M
P1M (latest)
Broom Production Capacity 60,000 to 90,000 161,260 to 241,890
Price of Softbroom P20 to P40 P15 to P30
*1 bundle= 30 to 40 smaller bundles or 300 to 400 stalks
Conclusions
Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn:
1. Tiger grass farmers in Marigondon Norte are generally poor, earning only an
estimated income of P1,700 a month. Their situation is brought about by low
educational attainment and income sources that are limited to seasonal
agricultural activities. Evidences are also suggestive of their lack of social
empowerment.
2. Tiger grass industry in Marigondon Norte is concentrated more on propagating

activities and production of raw materials for soft brooms. Very few ventured in
soft broom processing because of the human, technical and financial costs it
demands. The industry has been a major economic activity in the locality for long
years already but it has not risen from the grassroots because of the absence of
baseline production data and of sustained developmental efforts. Aside from these,
farmers reported lack of financial sources to defray farm related expenses.
3. More than 130.6 hectares of land in Marigondon Norte are cultivated for tiger grass
farming. The industry requires very minimal farm inputs. The average expense for
a one-hectare farm was P2,000 usually paid to workers for weeding the farm.
39
Seedlings are collected in the wild while farm implements are just simple farm
tools. Once the crops have grown, maintenance is very minimal since farmers have
to clear only the farm off weeds at least once a year.
4. The tiger grass industry is a promising economic activity in Marigondon Norte.

Around 50 percent of farmer’s annual income came from tiger grass production. If
its 2009 production volume of 80,630 bundles can be sustained or improved, it can
generate an estimated revenue of P1M to P2M depending on prevailing market
prices. However, if these were to be processed into soft brooms, an estimated
revenue between P3.6M to P7.3M is expected to be realized. Figures may be higher
if their primitive farming and traditional marketing practices could be improved.
Recommendations
Based on the findings and conclusions previously stated, the following courses of
action have been recommended:
1. The Department of Trade and Industry, through its extensive linkages and
networks can help the locals find market for their products through attendance in
trade fairs and other promotional activities. As soon as the local producers feel the
demand and profitability of the industry and a market is established, they will not
sell anymore their produce to nearby municipalities, they will be encouraged to
plant more tiger grasses and process these into soft brooms.
2. There is a need to reorganize the tiger grass farmers of Marigondon Norte. The
Romblon State University through the College of Business and Accountancy’s
Research and Extension unit in collaboration with the Department of Trade and
Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture and
the Local Government Unit of San Andres can the take the lead in this
reorganization effort. The ultimate goal is to come up with a cooperative but
conducting pre-membership seminars, which is the strength of the CBA-R&E unit,
can be done to prepare them for greater responsibilities. The Unit also extends
training on leadership, budget management, bookkeeping, production inventory
and management and cost analysis.
3. There is also a need to develop the potential for soft broom processing in the
locality. DTI and DOST can help introduce mature technologies on tiger grass
production such as those invented at Don Mariano Marcos State University which
was adopted already by the softbroom processors in San Agustin.
4. The Research Unit of RSU can establish a techno-demo farm in the area and
employ the prevailing farming and propagating practices and management of tiger
grass plantation. They can make a project proposal to the Land Bank of the
40
Philippines (LBP) to fund the validation of whatever mature tiger grass

technologies available under the Marigondon Norte condition.
5. The following are other possible studies that may be conducted:

a. Profile of tiger grass industries in other barangays like Jun Carlo, Mari-Sur
and Victoria;
b. Case study on the use of kaingin system on tiger grass farming; and
c. Tiger grass product development or improvement.
41
References
OTOP. (n.d.). About San Andres. Retrieved February 1, 2009, from OTOP Philippines:
http://www.otopphilippines.gov.ph/microsite.aspx?rid=5&provid=67&prodid-
157&sec=2
OTOP. (n.d.). One Cluster One Vision. Retrieved February 1, 209, from DILG:
http://www.dilg.gov.ph/Region4B/bestpractices.htm
OTOP. (n.d.). Tiger Grass of San Andres. Retrieved February 1,2009, from OTOP
Philippines:
http://otopphilippines.gov.ph/microsite.aspx?rid=5&provid=67&townid=1277&pro
did=157
OTOP. (n.d.). Tiger Grass Processing. Retrieved February 1, 2009, from DOST:
http://mis.dost.gov.ph/region4/webapps/ProjMonitor/details.php?id=72
OTOP. (n.d). Tiger Grass Producers in San Andres. Retrieved February 1, 2009, from OTOP
Philippines:
http://www.otopphilippines.gov.ph?sme.aspx?smeid=29&rid=5&provid=67&proid=
157
Palma, N.A. (1993). Sucker and Panicle Production of Tiger Grass in Plantations. Retrieved
February 1,2009, from
PCARRD:http://www.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/consortia/nomcarrd/researches/1993/199
3_r12.htm
Servañez B.F and Servañez, M.V. (n.d.). The Tiger Grass Industry in Romblon – Rising from
the Grassroots. Document available at the DOST-PSTC Romblon Office.
Servañez, M. (n.d.). A Project Proposal on Techno-Demo cum Forum on Tiger Grass

Technologies in San Andres Romblon. Document available at the DOST-PSTC
Romblon Office.
Viernes, R. (n.d.). A Project Proposal on the Utilization of Tiger Grass Materials into Soft
Brooms by Tiger Grass Broom Weavers of Mari-Norte, San Andres, Romblon.
Document available at the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist, San Andres,
Romblon.
_____________(n.d.) . A Training Design on the Operation and Maintenance of Tiger Grass

Kiln Dryer and Broom Handle Making Equipmen in Doña Juana, San Agustin,
Romblon. Document available at the DOST-PSTC Romblon Office.
42
______________(1992). Propagation, management and harvesting of Tiger grass in the

highlands. DENR-CAR, Technology Transfer Series, Vol. 2 (2). Retrieved on
February 20, 2010 from http://maidon.pcarrd.dost.gov.ph/cin/afin/propagation-
management-and-harvesting-of-tiger-grass-in-the-highlands.htm
_____________(n.d.). Quick Facts: The Tiger Grass Broom Industry in the Province of
Romblon. Document available at the DOST-PSTC Romblon Office.
_____________ (2004). Tiger Grass Industry Porfile at Doña Juana, San Agustin, Romblon.
Document available at the DOST-PSTC Romblon.
_____________(n.d.). Tiger Grass Processing: A Project Proposal of theTiger Grass Farmers

and Processors Association at Doña Juana, San Agustin, Romblon. Document
available at the DOST-PSTC Romblon Office.
43
Appendix A. The Research Instrument
PERSONAL NA DATOS NG MAGSASAKA
1. Pangalan _____________________________
2. Edad (base sa huling kaarawan) ___________
3. Kasarian: [1] Lalaki [2] Babae
4. Tirahan: __________________________________________________________________
5. Trabaho: [1] Nagtatanim ng luway [2] Nagpoproseso ng luway upang maging walis
[3] Iba pa: _________________________________________________________
6. Kung [1] ang sagot, ilang taon na po kayong nagtatanim ng luway? _____________________
7. Kung [2] ang sagot, ilang taon na po kayong nagpoproseso ng luway? ___________________
8. Estado Sibil: [1] Walang Asawa [2] May Asawa [3] Iba pa: ____________
9. Bilang ng dependents/pinapakain: ___________________
10. Pinakamataas na antas ng edukasyon na narating: ________________
11. Kita sa isang buong taon: Php_______________________
12. Kayo po ba ay bahagi ng isang samahan? Kung oo, ano pong samahan?
___________________________________________________________________
13. Ano po ang iba pang pinagkukunan ninyo ng kabuhayan?
___________________________________________________________________
14. Ano po ang katayuan ninyo sa lupang inyong sinasaka?
[1] May-ari [2] Bantay [3] Umuupa [4] CARP, IP o PWD Beneficiary
DATOS TUNGKOL SA SINASAKANG LUPA

1. Gaano kalayo sa inyong bahay ang lupang inyong sinasaka? ________________(km)
2. Paano po ninyo ginagamit ang lupang inyong sinasaka?
___________________________________________________________________
3. Saan po ninyo kinukuha ang kapital sa pagtatanim?
___________________________________________________________________
4. Anu-ano po ang inyong kinakailangan sa pagsasaka ng luway? (fertilizers, pesticides, farm
implements, etc.). Saan po ninyo ito kinukuha?
__________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
44
5. Sinu-sino po ang nagtatrabaho sa inyong sinasakang lupa? Kaano-ano po ninyo sila?
Sino Relasyon Binabayaran ba?
6. Anu-ano po ang inyong mga ‘practices’ sa pagtatanim at pag-aalaga ng luway? (i.e. Gaano
karaming seedling ang inilalagay sa bawat butas? Gaano kalayo ang mga tanim sa isa’t isa?
__________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
7. Meron po ba kayong mga pamahiin sa pagtatanim ng luway? [1] Oo [2] Wala
Kung oo, anu-ano po yun?
__________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
8. Anong oras, araw, o buwan po ba mas mainam magtanim ng luway?
Oras Araw Buwan
9. Maliban sa luway, ano pa po ang iba pang mga produktong inyong tinatanim?
___________________________________________________________________
10. Gaano po karami (in volume) ang inyong naaaning luway sa loob ng isang cropping season?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
11. Ano po ba karaniwan ang inyong crop calendar? (Panahon ng pagtatanim, pag-aani at iba pa)
Paghahanda Pagtatanim Pag-aani

Buwan
12. Anong uri po ng produktong luway ang inyong naibebenta?

___________________________________________________________________
13. Sino at taga-saan ang bumibili?
___________________________________________________________________
45
14. Gaano kadami ang binibili?
Pinakakonting Bentahan Normal na Bentahan Jackpot na Bentahan
15. Magkano po ang presyo ng mga produkto?
Produkto 1: ____________________________
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Presyo
Produkto 2: ____________________________
Presyo
Produkto 3: ____________________________
Presyo
16. Anu-ano po ang mga problemang inyong nararanasan na may kinalaman sa pagtatanim ninyo
ng luway? (kagaya ng peste, pagkasira dahil sa bagyo, atbp.)
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
17. Sa panahon po ng mga natural na kalamidad gaya ng bagyo, gaano po katagal bago kayo
makabawi?
__________________________________________________________________________________
18. Tinatayang lapad ng lupang sinasaka (in sq. m/ 1 ha. = 10,000sqm): ______________
19. Mga palatandaan kung saan malapit ang sinasakang lupang pinagtataniman ng luway:
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
Patunay na na-interbyu:
_______________________________
Lagda
46
Appendix B. List of Tiger Grass Farmers

(*Both Tiger Grass Farmer and Processor)
LINDERO
1 Baladjay, Nomeriano*
2 Galindez, Dominador
3 Gusi, Diocipio*
4 Gusi, Joel
5 Gusi, Juny
6 Gusi, Larry
7 Gusi, Oliver
8 Gusi, Pantinople
9 Magramo, Elsa
10 Mansalay, Joseph
PROPER
1 Agustin, James
2 Buhawe, Nerry
3 Capillo, Pacifico*
4 Francisco, Alfredo
5 Francisco, Johnny
6 Francisco, Marlon*
7 Francisco, Overia
8 Gabon, Ely*
9 Gabon, Rene Sr.*
10 Gadon, Danilo
11 Galan, Baronie
12 Galicha, Elena
13 Libuton, Artemio Jr.
14 Rada, Marcial
15 Rada, Marissa
16 Rios, Vicente
17 Rocero, Vicente
18 Viernes, Romeo
19 Villaret, Yanny*
HAGIMIT BIG
1 Agustin, Manny
2 Bucabal, Jose
3 Buhawe, Bobbie
4 Buhawe, Nolan
5 Enguillio, Perla*
47
6 Falcubit, Jeson
7 Fernando, Bernesto
8 Francisco, Danilo
9 Gabon, Diolito
10 Gadon, Hanny
11 Gadon, Mary Ann
12 Gadon, Romeo
13 Gallos, Democrito
14 Maquinto, Isagani Jr.
15 Maquinto, Leo
16 Maquinto, Nick
17 Maquinto, Pedrito
18 Martinicio, Levy*
19 Merano, Ronel
20 Rios, Maribel
21 Teologo, Ariel
22 Vicente, Eddie
23 Vicente, Nelly
24 Villanueva, Eldie
HAGIMIT SMALL
1 Enguillio, Vivian
2 Gramo, Salvador
3 Buhawe, Ederlyn
4 Fillartos, William
5 Dela Cruz, Yosy
HAGNAYA
1 Agustin, Lucio
2 Agustin, Sto. Nino
3 Falla,Emely
4 Francisco, Candelaria
5 Francisco, Lea*
6 Galindez, Bernabe
7 Gusi, Alcadio Sr.*
8 Gusi, Marilyn*
9 Gusi, Noe
10 Gusi, Teddy Jr.
11 Mansalay, Teresita
12 Meres, Manuel
13 Rada, Fuentesol
14 Rada, Hernie
48
15 Rada, Nomilie
16 Rada, Salibio
NARUNTAN
1 Cesar, Ludemy
2 Claud, Ramon
3 Dado, Mary Lie
4 Dela Cruz, Jimmy
5 Fallar, Christopher
6 Fallar, Jobert
7 Fallar, Merlita
8 Fallar, Rencie
9 Fallar, Rengie
10 Fallar, Rolando
11 Gabon, Pacifico
12 Gabon, Jose Jr.
13 Galario, Gerlie
14 Galario, Ricky
15 Galicha, Editha
16 Galicha, Rosena
17 Gamus, Emma
18 Guro, Teotema
19 Rios, Teresa
20 Saba, Annabel
21 Ysmael, Melanie
22 Waje, Hazel
AMBUNAN
1 Antonio, Noli
2 Famadulan, Dominguito
3 Gadon, Paulo Jr.
4 Mangao, Mary Jane
49
__________________CASE STUDY
Hanny Gadon
and Her Life with the Tigers
Age: 38 years old
Residence: Hagimit Big
Civil Status: Widow
Number and Age 4 [2 girls and 2 boys]
of Children: 16, 15, 13 and 10 yrs. old
Occupation: Luway farmer and
Soft broom maker
Highest Educational 2nd year HS
Attainment
Estimated Annual Income P22,000.00
Estimated Annual Income from P20,000
Tiger Grass Industry
Farm Size: 2.5 has.
Land Tenure: Tenant
Location of Farm: Sitio Ambunan,
2 km away from home
Estimated Annual Expense for P2,000
Tiger Grass Farming and
Processing
Hanny could not remember anymore when was the exact time she started to
engage in luway farming and walis tambo making. The moment she became aware of her
world, her family was already into the luway business. Her parents were both natives of
Mari-Norte and from them she acquired her farming and broom making skills. As a kid,
she used to pat bundles of luway panicles against rocks mindless of the danger the pollens
might infuse to her system. Even if as a lady, she already had to tender the family’s luway
farm in Sitio Ambunan, weeding it regularly. She became more involved with the industry
as she grew up.
In 1992, when she turned 21, she married Regie Gadon also a native of the barangay
of which they begot four kids: Richelle, Renier, Ryan Fel and Jean. The couple was filled
with dreams for their children. They tilled wider area of luway farms and processed these
into brooms. They saved their income from this activity for their dream house and
gradually pooled materials like hollow blocks and iron steel. But in 2004, Regie became ill.
He continued to lose weight until his health deteriorated and became bedridden. All
through these, Hanny took the sole responsibility of taking care of the children and of him
alongside with the burden of earning a living. The luway farms were her refuge. She
plucked weeds in other luway farms as alternative income source. She tried to tighten her
grip of their finances primarily sourced out from the brooms she sold. But they were not
enough, so she started selling their hollow blocks and iron steels. In September 2008,
50
barely four years later, Regie died and Hanny was left with the four children, uncertain of
what the future held for them.
“This is the only thing I know well,” said she referring to luway farming and soft
broom making. Since her husband died, she spent most of her wakeful hours in the luway
farms in Ambunan which were generously lent to her by the Moradas. The site was already
a part of the timberland. During weekdays, she would wake up very early in the morning,
cook breakfast and lunch for the kids and with a pack of food, start her 2 km sojourn to
the mountains of Ambunan. There, she took off weeds from her and other luway farms,
checked whether crops interplanted with luway were ready for harvest and looked for
whatever could be brought home as food. During Saturdays, she would bring the kids to
the farm to help her. But during Sundays,the family went to church. Hanny and her
children were active members of a religious group called the Good News Church.
The Sojourn of a Tiger Grass Farmer. Hanny has to go over these mountains yet in order
to tend her farm on the other side.
According to Mr. Romeo Viernes, the President of the defunct association of tiger
grass farmers and processors in the area, Hanny’s luway farm was one of the most
productive, healthiest and cleanest in Ambunan. Hanny’s dedication and drive to take the
industry by heart could equal a man. “A husband who gets drunk as early as the sun rises
is a shame to Hanny’s determination to provide for her kids,” said Viernes. “Her
spirituality is also amazing.” This was evident because despite the blows in her life, one
could see the joy and hope in Hanny’s eyes.
Hanny was expecting better harvest this year. She already prepared the materials
needed for broom making: wooden handles, tying wires and plastic rattan, among others.
She related that last year she was able to harvest around 2,000 bundles from her farm.
From these she produced around 4,000 walis tambo which she sold to Mr. Tony Gaciles in
51
the town proper for P15 per piece excluding the transport cost of P150 per delivery. She
claimed that she could make 20 to 30 pieces of walis tambo in a day.
Living in a small house, with galvanized roof which she attributed to their
engagement in luway industry, one could sense poverty. Although the house was bare
with appliances, it was well-kept. The walls were made from bamboo (tadtad) and there
were two old benches. A small wall divided the house into two bare rooms whose bamboo
floor (salog) was elevated by few feet on the ground. Some hollow blocks were still kept
under it. The kitchen cut to the other side wherein a charcoal burner can be found. The
family also had one fluorescent light courtesy of their BAPA of which they pay P100 to
P120 per month. They also owned a toilet.
The project leader during an interview with Hanny.
This widow poured out her dreams of seeing her children finish school so that they
would be able to have better opportunities in the lowlands. Richelle her eldest was 16. She
was on her third year in high school but stopped schooling and worked as a house helper
in Odiongan. Renier, 15 was first year in San Andres National High. She allotted P100 per
week for his board and lodging expenses in town. Ryan Fel was 13 and on the fourth grade
while Jean, 10 was on the fifth grade. Hanny did not wish anything more for herself, lest to
marry again. She was able to survive even without a husband to lean on nor with any help
from the government. But if given financial help, she would want to widen her farm, buy
more luway and process them into brooms. She was also opening her doors of joining a
cooperative for tiger grass farmers and processors and attending seminars and trainings to
improve her craft.
Hanny’s account is a representative story of many women luway farmers in

Marigondon Norte. Tossed in the billows of misfortune, she did not lose heart to face life
along with her everyday friends – the tiger grasses and found her life again.
52
Detailed Distribution of Buyers, Suppliers, Sitio and Volume Passed
BUYER NAME OF FARMER SITIO PRODUCTION

VOLUME*
GABON, ROBERT
1 Antonio, Noli Ambunan 200
2 Gadon, Paulo Jr. Ambunan 500
3 Agustin, Manny Hagimit Big 700
4 Buhawe, Nolan Hagimit Big 300
5 Gabon, Diolito Hagimit Big 500
6 Gadon, Mary Ann Hagimit Big 500
7 Gadon, Romeo Hagimit Big 30
8 Maquinto, Nick Hagimit Big 800
9 Martinicio, Levy Hagimit Big 1000
10 Rios, Maribel Hagimit Big 50
11 Vicente, Eddie Hagimit Big 500
12 Vicente, Nelly Hagimit Big 1500
13 Galindez, Bernabe Hagnaya 1500
14 Rada, Nomilie Hagnaya 2000
15 Gusi, Juny Lindero 1000
16 Dado, Mary Lie Naruntan 300
17 Dela Cruz, Jimmy Naruntan 800
18 Fallar, Christopher Naruntan 300
19 Fallar, Merlita Naruntan 3000
20 Fallar, Rencie Naruntan 700
21 Fallar, Rolando Naruntan 100
22 Gabon, Pacifico Naruntan 100
23 Galario, Gerlie Naruntan 400
24 Guro, Teotema Naruntan 500
25 Rios, Teresa Naruntan 1000
26 Waje, Hazel Naruntan 500
27 Buhawe, Nerry Proper 500
28 Rada, Marissa Proper 350
29 Rios, Vicente Proper 200
30 Viernes, Romeo Proper 1000
20,830
AHENTE-NORTE
1 Famadulan, Dominguito Ambunan 700
2 Mangao, Mary Jane Ambunan 1000
3 Bucabal, Jose Hagimit Big 500
53

VOLUME*
4 Buhawe, Bobbie Hagimit Big 50
5 Falcubit, Jeson Hagimit Big 200
6 Gallos, Democrito Hagimit Big 500
7 Maquinto, Pedrito Hagimit Big 800
8 Villanueva, Eldie Hagimit Big 100
9 Buhawe, Ederlyn Hagimit Small 200
10 Fillartos, William Hagimit Small 500
11 Gramo, Salvador Hagimit Small 200
12 Agustin, Lucio Hagnaya 600
13 Gusi, Marilyn Hagnaya 1000
14 Gusi, Noe Hagnaya 500
15 Gusi, Teddy Jr. Hagnaya 2000
16 Mansalay, Teresita Hagnaya 600
17 Meres, Manuel Hagnaya 1000
18 Baladjay, Nomeriano Lindero 800
19 Galindez, Dominador Lindero 1000
20 Gusi, Joel Lindero 600
21 Gusi, Larry Lindero 600
22 Gusi, Oliver Lindero 500
23 Gusi, Pantinople Lindero 1000
24 Cesar, Ludemy Naruntan 500
25 Galario, Ricky Naruntan 150
26 Galicha, Rosena Naruntan 1000
27 Gamus, Emma Naruntan 200
28 Saba, Annabel Naruntan 250
29 Agustin, James Proper 200
30 Gadon, Danilo Proper 200
17,450
MANASAN, DOÑA JUANA
1 Enguillio, Perla Hagimit Big 600
2 Fernando, Bernesto Hagimit Big 1500
3 Merano, Ronel Hagimit Big 1500
4 Teologo, Ariel Hagimit Big 500
5 Enguillio, Vivian Hagimit Small 200
6 Agustin, Sto. Nino Hagnaya 1000
7 Falla,Emely Hagnaya 1000
8 Francisco, Candelaria Hagnaya 1000
9 Francisco, Lea Hagnaya 1500
54

VOLUME*
10 Rada, Fuentesol Hagnaya 1000
11 Rada, Hernie Hagnaya 500
12 Rada, Salibio Hagnaya 1000
13 Magramo, Elsa Lindero 200
14 Francisco, Alfredo Proper 1000
15 Francisco, Johnny Proper 1000
16 Francisco, Overia Proper 2000
17 Galan, Baronie Proper 1200
18 Libuton, Artemio Jr. Proper 1000
19 Rada, Marcial Proper 2000
20 Rocero, Vicente Proper 2500
22,200
GACILES - SAN ANDRES
1 Gadon, Hanny Hagimit Big 1000
2 Gusi, Alcadio Sr. Hagnaya 2000
3 Fallar, Jobert Naruntan 5000
4 Galicha, Elena Proper 150
5 Villaret, Yanny Proper 500
8,650
AHENTE - AKLAN
1 Galicha, Editha Naruntan 700
2 Francisco, Marlon Proper 500
3 Gabon, Ely Proper 1000
4 Gabon, Rene Sr. Proper 1000
3,200
AHENTE-MINDORO
1 Francisco, Danilo Hagimit Big 1000
2 Gusi, Diocipio Lindero 2000
3 Mansalay, Joseph Lindero 1000
4,000
AHENTE-ODIONGAN
1 Claud, Ramon Naruntan 500
2 Gabon, Jose Jr. Naruntan 200
700
AHENTE - MARI-SUR
1 Capillo, Pacifico Proper 500
2 Maquinto, Isagani Jr. Hagimit Big 500
3 Maquinto, Leo Hagimit Big 500
55

VOLUME*
4 Fallar, Rengie Naruntan 500
5 Ysmael, Melanie Naruntan 500
6 Dela Cruz, Yosy Hagimit Small 1000
3,500
*in bundles
Scatter Plot for farmers (94%) whose annual income is below P74,340.00
70000
60000
50000
40000
30000
20000
10000
0
n whose annual income is <P74,340 = 94%
In 2007 the poverty line was P6,195.00/month or P74,340 per year. A five-member
family should earn a combined income equal or above that line per month or year in order
not to be considered poor. (http://www.nscb.gov.ph/poverty/FAQs/default.asp)
This supports the claim of the study that farmers in Mari-Norte belong to the
social poor. Around 6% only are earning above the poverty line.
56
Pictorials
The researchers with Brgy. Capt. Robert Gabon (center).
The staff with Brgy. Kagawad Romeo Viernes (2nd from right), President of the defunct
Association of Tiger Grass Farmers and Processors in Mari-Norte.
57
Project Leader with Mari-Norte’s Ex-Brgy. Capt. Tatay Isaac Francisco.

He owns the largest tiger grass plantation in Sitio Ambunan.
The staff stayed in one of his houses.
This is how tiger grass flowers are dried in bundles.
58
Angelica srikes a pose after an interview with these farmers.
Maria Angelica poses with one tiger grass farmer after an interview.
59
Melody and Baby Vanessa visited one of the tiger grass plantations
in Sitio Naruntan.
A newly established Tiger Grass farm along the roadside in Sitio Hagimit Small
60
__________________________________
__________________________________Profile of Tiger Grass Industry in Marigondon Norte:: Basis for Developmental Intervention
The research staff among the tiger grasses.
This picture is a proof to the potential of the tiger grass

as a soil erosion controller.
61

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Profile of Tiger Grass Industry

in Marigondon Norte, San Andres, Romblon:

Tomas T. Faminial, CPA

College of Business and Accountancy

All Rights Reserved 2010

Specifically, we earnestly thank the following:

The Department of Trade and Industry-Romblon Provincial Office personnel particularly

Our CBA family for the encouragement and moral support;

Our family for the continued understanding and support;

E. G. Fetalvero & T.T. Faminial

Marigondon Norte is a tiger grass growing village in San Andres, Romblon. It is

Managing a tiger grass plantation required an estimated annual expenses of P100 to

Common problems encountered by farmers were lack of financial resource for

Background of the Study

At present, efforts at rekindling entrepreneurial energies and optimizing the

Recognizing the continuing effort of the government to develop rural-based

Objectives of the Study

Significance of the Study

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

Review of Related Literature and Studies

The seedlings can be planted bareroot. However, it is advisable to plant potted

Shooting of the grass is continuous throughout the year. An average of 10 panicles

Propagation, Plantation Development and Management

In the uplands like in the Cordilleras, the following propagation, plantation

Techniques in propagation. There are two known methods of propagating tiger

Site preparation. Rootstocks of tiger grass can be planted directly in prepared

Method of planting. As mentioned earlier, Tiger grass can be propagated by seeds

Some Cultural Management of the Plantation. The success of a tiger grass

Tiger Grass Industry in Romblon

Profile of Tiger Grass Industry in Romblon. The Provincial Science and

Tiger Grass Industry in Doña Juana. A comprehensive profiling study done in

Tiger grass in the barangay is commonly planted as undercrop for coconut.

As to the performance of this enterprise, sales from raw materials reached

In a project proposal about Techno-Demo Forum on Tiger Grass Technologies, the

▪ PROFILES OF TIGER GRASS

Figure 1. Research Framework

Figure 2. Research Design

The Locale and Time of Study

Figure 3. Spot Map of Marigondon Norte

Transportation is a major problem in the village because it is about 18km away

The Research Instrument

Data Collection and Data Source

Method of Data Processing and Analysis

Results and Discussion

Table 1 continued on the next page…

DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILES FREQUENCY PERCENT

Highest Educational Attainment. Table 3 shows that 30 percent of the respondents

Membership in Organization. It can be seen from Table 3 that 76 percent of these

Profiles of the Tiger Grass Industry

Although attempts were made by the Department of Science and Technology to

In a follow up interview with Brgy. Captain Robert Gadon, he explained this

FARM PROFILE FREQUENCY PERCENT

Production volume. Production volume was measured in terms of bundles where

Farmers used various implements in planting tiger grass. Tara-tara, a sharp

Distance Between Holes. About 73 percent of the farmers observed a 1 meter-

Figure 5. Buyers and Volume of Dried Luway Bought (in bundles)

Comparison of Data on Tiger Grass Industry

2. Tiger grass industry in Marigondon Norte is concentrated more on propagating

4. The tiger grass industry is a promising economic activity in Marigondon Norte.