Animo Repository - De La Salle University Research
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Dynamics and structural shifts in Philippine outbound tourism expenditure and employment (2000-2023): Vector autoregression and change-point analyses before and during the pandemic
No full textThe COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the tourism sector, consequently affecting the broader Philippine economy. This study analyzes Philippine tourism expenditure and tourism sector employment trends from 2000 to 2023, focusing on the impact of the pandemic. Using Vector Autoregression, and Change-Point Analysis, this research investigates thedynamics between expenditure and employment, to characterize trends and identify structural shifts, particularly differentiating the periods before andduring the pandemic. The findings aim to inform evidence-based strategies that support the tourism sector\u27s resilience and effective recovery planning.The methods employed in this study have been shown to be useful in other related studies regarding tourism-related trends. Based on the change-point analysis conducted, 2019, 2020, and 2022 are found to be key timings of structural shifts in the data because of the pandemic. In addition, outbound tourism expenditure, employment, and total gross value added are affectedby each other as shown by Vector Autoregression, yet due to Granger-causality, outbound expenditure and employment do not significantly impact total gross value added. Moreover, the results from this study mayprovide input to the tourism sector in promoting service offerings that benefit both the traveling public and the domestic economy
Physicochemical Properties of Squash (Cucurbita maxima L.) Seeds for Biodiesel Production
Get PDFThis study explores the potential of squash (Cucurbita maxima L.) seeds, an underutilized agricultural waste product, as a feedstock for biodiesel production. The resulting biodiesel was compared to a conventional biodiesel from a waste soya bean cooking oil, focusing on the parameters of kinematic viscosity and flashpoint. A 1:10 (w/v) sample-to-solvent ratio was utilized through Soxhlet extraction, followed by rotary evaporation to maximize oil extraction. Subsequently, acid-base titration determines the oil’s Free Fatty Acid (FFA) content to be 2.08%, indicating its suitability for base-catalyzed transesterification. A stoichiometric minimum oil-to-methanol ratio of 1:3 and 1% w/w sodium methoxide as the catalyst were used for biodiesel synthesis. Results indicate an average kinematic viscosity (ASTM D445) of the C. maxima biodiesel of 4.34 mm²/s compared to the 4.7 mm²/s for conventional biodiesel. Flashpoint testing (ASTM D92) for C. maxima resulted in an average of 136.0°C, whereas the conventional biodiesel measures at 138.5°C. Statistical analysis using an independent sample t-test revealed a significant difference in kinematic viscosity, yet no significant difference in flashpoint was found when compared. The favorable kinematic viscosity of C. maxima biodiesel indicates an improved atomization and combustion behavior, which are crucial aspects of engine performance. This study demonstrates that C. maxima biodiesel meets the ASTM D6751 specifications for kinematic viscosity and flashpoint. Further evaluation of key properties—cetane number, cloud point, and pour point—is recommended to assess its full potential as a biodiesel feedstock
A multi-class macroscopic flow model of Philippine road traffic
No full textIn 2024, Manila ranked 14th among 501 cities in 62 countries around the world in terms of traffic index, which shows the severity of traffic congestion in the country. Previous studies on Philippine road traffic used tools from statistics and operations research. In this study, the researchers use partial differential equations to model road traffic flow. A multi-class macroscopic model using Lagrangian coordinates is introduced, and vehicle classes are defined using different speed functions that characterize the major vehicle types on Philippine roads: motorcycles, cars, jeepneys, and buses. The model is solved numerically, and sample simulations are provided
HydroFortera: An Experimental Study on the Development of an Effective and Cost-Effective Eco-Friendly Geopolymer Water-Stop Cement
No full textHydraulic water-stop cement is a commonplace solution to most concrete problems caused by natural disasters in the Philippines, especially flooding in low-lying areas. However, rising expenses and environmental concerns due to surging carbon footprints necessitate the development of a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative. Aligned with SDGs 9, 11, 12, and 13, this study developed HydroFortera: an effective, cost-effective, and eco-friendly geopolymer water-stop cement formulated using waste by-products such as fly ash, rice husk ash, and coconut fiber, along with alkaline activators and additives. Alkaline-to-binder ratios of 0.40, 0.45, and 0.50 were tested for various properties to determine the optimal ratio for each. Tested under ASTM testing methods, HydroFortera exhibited excellent slant shear bond strength (SSBS), relatively fast setting time (ST), and a remarkably low water absorption (WA) after the 7-day sealed curing process, with compressive strength (CS) values assessed as suitable for non-load bearing repair materials by industry professionals. Significant differences between the aforementioned ratios’ properties appeared, while WA values remained similar throughout. The optimal alkaline-to-binder ratio for each property, then, is 0.50 for CS, 0.45 for SSBS, 0.50 for initial ST, 0.45 for final ST, and 0.45 for WA. Comparative analyses further confirmed HydroFortera\u27s cost-effectiveness, with total cost savings reaching 78% of hydraulic water-stop cement costs, and eco-friendliness, presenting much lower environmental impact and positive environmental contributions when tested using the OpenLCA software and Ecoinvent database. Through this study, an innovative concrete repair material was successfully developed, offering disaster-prone communities a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for infrastructure repairs
Multifaceted Skepticism: A Comprehensive Approach in Auditing Practice
No full textThis research uses a modified grounded theory approach to understand the behavior of auditors in Indonesia who have an Eastern cultural background in applying professional skepticism. The research results reveal that auditor behavior in practice applies multifaceted skepticism. Multifaceted skepticism refers to the idea that professional skepticism in auditing is not a one-dimensional approach. That recognizes the complexity of the audit environment and the need for auditors to consider various factors when applying their skepticism. Multifaceted skepticism brings us to a less simplistic view of professional skepticism, which until now has only been seen as an on-or-off switch. Instead, this multifaceted skepticism acknowledges the existence of machinations in the audit environment
Determinants of Bangladeshi Banking Inefficiency: Do Non-Performing Loans and BASEL III Affect Banking Inefficiency?
No full textThe efficiency of commercial banking is a crucial determinant of the longevity of the financial system. High credit risk is a significant feebleness that leads to high non-performing loans (NPLs), which reduce banking efficiency in any economy. In this context, this study aims to identify the determinants of banking inefficiency in Bangladesh. The Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) technique was employed to measure banking efficiency, whereas TOBIT regression was performed to identify the determinants of inefficiency of 38 commercial banks from 2016–2022. Findings demonstrated size, ownership structure and orientation, capital structure regulations (BASEL III), GDP growth, and inflation as significant determinants of Bangladeshi banking inefficiency. However, although the non-performing loan ratio posited a deteriorating factor to banking efficiency, it was statistically insignificant. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic was not a significant determinant of banking inefficiency. The findings suggest that bank managers should strengthen their risk management assessments, particularly to reduce NPLs and adjust Basel III capital requirements to achieve higher efficiency scores. Besides, policymakers are required to improve BASEL III requirements to strike a balance between bank efficiency and financial stability by deregulating capital requirements while encouraging banks to improve their credit risk management
Between cards and conversations: Redefining internal communication in advocacy-driven SMEs through enterprise social media (ESM) prototyping
No full textThis internal communication system prototype, guided by a communications playbook, explores the integration of collaborative digital platforms, specifically Trello and Telegram, as tools to enhance communicative practices within advocacy-driven SMEs. The collaboration with Kalikhasan reflects a deep alignment with the author’s values of environmental advocacy and community empowerment. Despite its meaningful mission, the organization has long struggled with internal communication marked by unclear workflows, limited documentation, and the absence of SOPs which continues to hinder its ability to effectively convey its goals to stakeholders. Grounded in the Social Exchange Theory (Einwiller et al., 2021), the Adaptive Structuration Theory (DeSanctis & Pool, 1994), and inspired by Welch’s (2011) insights into employee engagement, it aims to show the affordances brought about by integrating these concepts in their workflow. The Filipino cultural values of pakikipagkapwa-tao and bayanihan (Martinez, 2023) also influenced the development of the playbook, as they shape not only how messages are crafted but also how relationships are nurtured through communication. By co-developing and testing an Enterprise Social Media (ESM) framework within this context, the study not only contributes to improving Kalikhasan’s operational flow but also offers a scalable model demonstrating how modern ESNs can strengthen reciprocal relationships, improve employee engagement, and support organizational success—all while providing valuable insights from key personnel from local SMEs who have adapted a similar framework
#AdoptDontShop: Exploring the use of framing processes for non-profit animal shelters in advocating for animal welfare
No full textThe study explores the use of strategic framing in advocating for “Adopt, Don’t Shop” through the use of a social media campaign and adoption drive event. STRAY Love PH is a non-profit animal welfare organization in the Philippines that notably experiences low adoption and donation rates. Guided by Benford and Snow’s (2000) Core Framing Tasks, the campaign and event aimed to shift the negative preconceived notions of middle to upper class Filipinos who live in Metro Manila about stray and rescue dogs. After a series of audits, the researchers concluded that the organization does not strategically utilize its social media platforms to promote the \u27Adopt, Don’t Shop\u27 advocacy on which it was founded. Moreover, STRAY Love PH does not organize any adoption drives, donation drives, or promotional events that could further address their organizational communication problem. The proponents chose to hold a social media advocacy campaign and adoption drive event as the organizational communication solution. Through the use of in-depth interviews and surveys, the study assessed shifts in perceptions and adoption willingness among the aforementioned target audience. Results showed that the campaign successfully increased positive perceptions, reduced hesitations tied to dogs’ health and behavioral concerns, and strengthened the audience’s intent to adopt. The adoption drive event further demonstrated the power of in-person interaction through an event in influencing adoption decisions. This production thesis highlights how communication-based advocacy, when framed effectively, can drive meaningful behavioral change and promote long-term solutions to pet homelessness
