The initial cost of implementation is PhP 97,600/hectare with a 3-year return on investment. Rice-onion crop rotation in Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro secures an estimated annual profit of PhP 38,750/hectare and internal rate of return of 47%. Even if the rice and onion yield is lower, this practice is still much more profitable than monocropping [1].

Rice-onion crop rotation is an indigenous cropping scheme that is practiced to use the remaining nutrients from the rice field for onion production while disrupting the cycle of pests and diseases. The soil type in Bulalacao allows for the cultivation of onion during the dry seasons of October to June. Onions thrive in low moisture conditions and have a similar maturity period with rice which makes it ideal for rotation [1].

Only 3% of the rice farmers in Oriental Mindoro currently adopt this practice but it is projected to increase to 53% in the upcoming years [1].

Planting rice during dry seasons is difficult due to additional efforts on soil management and irrigation. This method entails the use of more external input to maintain the crops. However, planting crops that can naturally thrive in dry conditions enhance soil productivity by taking advantage of existing soil moisture and allowing balanced fertilization [1].