The Dynamics of Agricultural Land Use Cover Change Using Agricultural Carrying Capacity: The Case of Magsingal, Ilocos Sur

Abstract

Amid intensifying development pressures and shifting socio-economic landscapes, this study provides a critical assessment of how changing land-use patterns are reshaping the agricultural sustainability and long-term food and crop security in Magsingal, Ilocos Sur. This study explores the evolving dynamics of agricultural land use in Magsingal, Ilocos Sur, focusing on its Agricultural Carrying Capacity (ACC). Employing a mixed-methods approach with expert interviews and survey data, it investigates pressures on farmlands, including urbanization, economic factors, and demographic shifts. Findings indicate a decline in Magsingal's ACC from 0.56 hectares per farmer in 2021 to 0.52 hectares in 2023, reflecting increasing land fragmentation and challenges to farming sustainability. This trend mirrors national land fragmentation patterns observed in the 2012 Census of Agriculture. Key drivers of land-use change include urban sprawl, infrastructure development, and conversions to residential and commercial uses. Recommendations include integrating ACC assessments into local land use planning, promoting regular land evaluations, and fostering community engagement in decision-making. The study advocates for policies that secure land tenure, enhance farming practices, and balance urban expansion with agricultural preservation, ultimately promoting long-term agricultural sustainability and food security in Magsingal.