Evaluating the influence of supply chain factors on farmers’ supply-related decisions to minimize oversupply and promote agricultural sustainability: an analysis in La Trinidad, Benguet

Oversupply remains as one of the persistent issues faced in the Philippine agriculture sector. This problem usually occurs during the peak harvest season, when farmers cultivate the same crops simultaneously. Farmers, as the primary decision makers in farming operations, have a significant influence on supply outcomes. This study utilized the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to determine the influence of supply chain factors logistics, market access, postharvest handling practices and infrastructure, and forecasting on farmers’ supply-related decisions in La Trinidad, Benguet. The data were gathered from 157 farmers using a structured questionnaire administered during the municipality’s 4th Farmers and Fisherfolk Month Celebration. The results revealed that market access, logistics, and post-harvest handling practices and infrastructure significantly shape farmers’ supply-related decisions. Logistics is found to be the most important predictor of market access, while geographical location strongly influences logistics, which in turn impacts postharvest quality and market access. Moreover, the support and initiatives from the government and private sector significantly strengthen logistics, post-harvest handling practices and infrastructure, and forecasting while fostering the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. By identifying the interplay of these factors on farmers’ supply-related decisions, this study provides a noble framework for policymakers and agricultural leaders to design interventions that minimize oversupply, reduce waste, and enhance supply chain efficiency thereby promoting agricultural sustainability and supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.