Gender-Sensitive Innovation, Household Empowerment, and Resilient Livelihoods for Free-Range Chicken Enterprises in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Abstract

Background: The integration of gender perspectives in agricultural innovations is important for balanced rural development. In this research, the effect of gender-aware interventions (housing modification, breeding participation, gender parity in market links) in free-range chicken farming was investigated in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Methodology: A quasi-experimental method was adopted using two sets of 75 intervention and control households. Quantitative measures used in this experiment include questionnaires, performance evaluations, and geographic information system (GIS). Qualitative instruments involved deep interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and observations. All methods employed in this study were pilot-tested, and baseline equivalence among household size, farming expertise, and business description (all p > 0.05) was determined. Results: The intervention groups showed an average production level that was 32.2% higher, mortality rate that was 47.8% lower, and resilience score that was 50.1% higher compared to the control groups. Female respondents had 68% greater authority over decisions, while 72% of male members said that there was improvement in the family decision-making process. Gender-parity in market connections allowed direct sales transactions to buyers at 90.7%. Conclusion: Gender-aware innovation is one of the key drivers of productivity, equity, and resilience. Policy recommendations include model replication to other barangays, credit facilities, and gender stereotypes mitigation training.