Modelling the dynamics of agroforestry adoption in the uplands of Southern Philippines using companion modelling approach

A model was developed following an iterative process based on repetitive back-and-forth steps between the model and field activities. A Multi Agent System (MAS) was integrated with a Role-Playing Game (RPG) to understand the dynamics of agroforestry adoption in Claveria, Misamis Oriental. The model simulated and observed different scenarios: cumulative income of agroforestry adopters and non-adopters, impact of market information on farm income, and neighbour effects on the spread of agroforestry adoption. Results of the computer simulations were verified using farmer games and focus group discussions. Agroforestry and non-agroforestry farmers were invited to participate in the role-playing game in order to understand more precisely and validate the model. During the conduct of the role-playing game, the individual behaviour of agents under a number of scenarios and the properties of the system emerging from their interactions were examined and discussed among the players. The model scenarios and role-playing game can serve as a decision support for policymakers, farmers and other stakeholders towards sustainable management of resources. It is envisioned to produce information useful for understanding the decision-making strategies of farmers with regard to agroforestry adoption that can be essential to the success of efforts to address the sustainability of upland areas in the Philippines and elsewhere in south-east Asia.