Abstract

This explanatory research seeks to investigate what drives pineapple output growth in Northern Mindanao from a socio-economic perspective. The study attempts to analyse the socio-economic determinants at two levels, namely, individual farm owners and MNEs operating in the top pineapple producing region in the country. The research methodology entails a sequential mixed-methods design combining survey, case study, extensive desk reviews, and triangulation of the results to provide a comprehensive study. The underpinnings of resource dependency theory, stakeholder theory, and institutional theory provide a solid theoretical framework for the study. The study aims to investigate what predisposes individual farm owners to engage in pineapple cultivation and how the interorganizational relationship or interplay between MNEs and the individual farm owners, the influence of cooperatives and/or farmers associations, and the government support impact pineapple output growth. By gaining understanding of the challenges and vulnerabilities in pineapple production, the study can provide inputs for potential policy interventions to enhance pineapple output growth and empower farmers and MNEs to ensure generational renewal of pineapple cultivation in the Philippines. This study also contributes to the evidence-based evaluation of how farm owners directly or indirectly pursue economic opportunities, contribute to food security, and help influence sustainable economic growth in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goal.