Value Chain Analysis for Karlang (Xanthosoma sagittifolium L. Schott) in Selected Aquatic and Agricultural Systems Communities in Sogod, Southern Leyte, Philippines

Abstract

Emerging market demand has redefined the importance of the Philippine root crop karlang as an alternative livelihood among selected aquatic and agricultural systems (AAS) communities in Sogod, Southern Leyte, Philippines. The study aimed to identify effective upgrading strategies for improving the profitability of karlang farming enterprise, using the value chain approach. Detailed value chain mapping showed the karlang market chain network reaching Cebu City Carbon market as the primary demand point. Retailers and consumers’ feedback revealed that karlang from Southern Leyte have varietal and locational quality premium. A closer look at the data showed that there is 46% excess demand for karlang in the market. Chain performance analysis also showed high value-adding potential at the farmers’ node. Participatory Systems Analysis (PSA) identified poor transport infrastructure and inadequacy of production capital as priority constraints to higher farm production across study sites. Recommended upgrading strategies included; improvement of farm transport infrastructure, capacity building/training of producer groups as value chain hub, including the processing of high value-adding karlang products where the poor and marginalized sectors in the selected AAS communities can participate.