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Ex-ante Profitability Analysis of BT Eggplant in Tiaong, Quezon, 2023
No full textThe study was conducted the potential profitability of Bt eggplant in Tiaong, Quezon. Specifically, it aimed to: 1. determine the area and volume of production of eggplants, in the study area; 2. determine the cost and return of eggplant production in the study area; 3. analyze the net incremental benefit of adopting Bt eggplant production in the study area; and 4. identify problems in eggplant production and recommend possible solutions. The study utilized primary and secondary data from via personnel interviews with the farmers. Ex-ante profitability analysis was used to determine the potential of Bt eggplant in terms of profitability, while the breakeven budget analysis was used to determine the breakeven points of adopting Bt eggplant in production. The results of the study found that adopting Bt eggplant could potentially increase revenue by PhP 156,860/ha. The insecticide cost of the production would decrease by PhP 38,444/ha while the labor for chemical application would decrease by PhP 16,502/ha. On the other hand, seed cost is expected to increase by PhP 1,409/ha. The breakeven points of the farmgate price, yield, and seed cost were computed in the study and it was found that adopting Bt eggplant in production would result to a breakeven farmgate price of PhP 24.24/kg, breakeven yield of 17,472.98kg/ha, and breakeven seed cost of PhP 602,660/can/ha. Based on the results, the study concluded that adopting Bt eggplant in production would potentially improve the profitability of the farmers in the study area. As such, the study recommends that more research on Bt eggplant be conducted to that could potentially help with the decision making of the Supreme Court of the Philippines on the case of Bt eggplant. Furthermore, the study recommends that information on Bt eggplant be disseminated to provide knowledge to the stakeholders in the eggplant industry
Determinants of the Extent of E-Wallet Use: Evidence from Molino IV, City of Bacoor, Cavite
No full textThis study investigated the extent of e-wallet use of people from Barangay Molino IV, City of Bacoor Cavite. The concept of using mobile phones as a method of payment started as early as 1997. However, the popularity of using e-wallet is influenced by the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. From this, the technology of mobile payment continued to develop new features to accommodate the needs of its users. From the basic use which includes money transfer and physical purchase, e-wallets now include advanced uses such as online purchase, saving money and investment. The probit regression analysis was used to identify which factors influence the advanced use of e-wallets.
From the findings of this study, it was revealed that incentives has a significant impact on the extent of e-wallet use. This suggests that individuals who do not rely on promotional offers, cashbacks and discounts when using e-wallet are more likely to use an application\u27s advanced features. In addition, the factors age, occupation, monthly income, monthly allowance and monthly e-wallet expenditure were found to be statistically significant with advanced e-wallet use. Monthly income and monthly e-wallet expenditure are positively related to advanced e-wallet use while age, occupation and monthly allowance are negatively related to e-wallet use
The Economics of Secondhand Clothes in Elbids - An Online Market
No full textThis study addresses the developments in secondhand clothing market within the Asian context, with specific focus on consumer behavior in the peer-to-peer e-commerce platform ELBids, Using Google Forms, the researcher collected 78 ELBids members’ responses for the investigation of market demand for secondhand clothes in ELBids, the factors affecting their purchase and non-purchase, and the demand elasticity of secondhand clothes in ELBids. The Negative Binomial Regression was used to estimate the demand curve, elasticity was estimated using the double-logarithmic model, and consumer surplus was computed using the summation formula from Abueg (2005).
Results show that majority of the patrons of secondhand clothes from ELBids are students aged 20 to 24 with motivation primarily rooted in environmental and economic considerations. Respondents expressed concerns about hygiene, information assymetry, size availability, and lack of return policy affecting their purchase decisions. The study also highlights the ease of transactions in ELBids as a key driver for purchase. Demand elasticity suggests that secondhand clothes on ELBids are normal, price-elastic goods, acting as substitutes for brand-new clothing. Consumer surplus analysis demonstrates that consumers benefit more economically by purchasing secondhand clothes from ELBids than brand-new alternatives from online shops.
Despite the study\u27s contributions, limitations such as a small sample size, selection bias, and data constraints pose challenges to the significance of the regression results. Replicability is maintained through methodological consistency with Abueg (2005), but improvements, such as a larger sample size and refined questionnaire design, are recommended for future research
An Empirical Investigation of the Relationship Between Electricity Consumption and Real Gross Domestic Product Per Capita in the Philippines
No full textThe general objective of the study is to examine the relationship between GDP per capita and electricity consumption in the context of the Philippines. The link between the GDP per capita and electricity consumption was investigated using econometric tests. Secondary data on GDP per capita and electricity consumption in the Philippines from 1981 to 2019 were used in the analysis. Results from the Unit Root Test show that the variables are non-stationary at levels but stationary at their first difference. The Johansen Cointegration Test was used to determine whether there is cointegration between the two variables after determining the series of I(1). According to the findings, the variables are cointegrated at rank one. This suggests that there is at most one cointegrating relationship among the variables being tested. The results of the present study show that there is no directional relationship between GDP per capita and electricity consumption. This supports the neutrality hypothesis which indicates that GDP per capita and electricity consumption are independent of one another. Since there is no causality relationship between consumption of electricity and the overall level of economic activity, policies or events that affect electricity consumption will likely have little to no effect on economic growth
Estimating the Willingness to Pay for Environmentally Friendly Food Packaging Alternatives
No full textIn recent years, the Philippines has been identified as a dominant contributor to marine plastic pollution while simultaneously being the top country exposed to natural disaster risks exacerbated by climate change. It is important to explore different solutions to mitigate plastic pollution, especially for food packaging, which is one of the main contributors to single-use waste. A discrete choice experiment was utilized to attain the willingness to pay (WTP) of undergraduate students from UPLB College of Economics and Management towards environmentally friendly food packaging alternatives for takeout and delivery services. Psychological constructs from the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) were assessed through Likert scales and integrated into the choice model. Mixed logit models were used to estimate utility functions as they account for unobserved preference heterogeneity. The model that only added TPB constructs exhibited a potential to enhance the mixed logit model’s explanatory power. The respondents appear to have a high preference for sugarcane bagasse containers and paper bags. The computed WTP values from the mixed logit estimations reflect the preference with sugarcane bagasse containers at PHP 12.73 and PHP 12.55 for paper bags. The results imply that respondents want these environmentally friendly alternatives available to them, even if it comes at a cost. The study also saw that negative perceived behavioral control of availing environmentally friendly alternatives and positive intentions towards pro-environmental behavior influences the likelihood to opt for environmentally friendly food packaging
Analysis of Marketing System of Tilapia in Laurel, Batangas, 2023
No full textThis study analyzed the marketing system of tilapia in Laurel, Batangas. It specifically aimed to (1) determine the production practices and costs of tilapia producers; (2) determine the marketing practices and costs of tilapia traders; (3) analyze the product and geographical flow in the marketing of tilapia; (4) evaluate the marketing efficiency of tilapia in Laurel, Batangas; and (5) identify problems and constraints encountered by tilapia producers and traders.
Convenience sampling and forward and backward tracing were used to select the study’s 34 respondents. The sample was composed of 18 tilapia producers and 16 tilapia traders. Descriptive analysis and product and geographical flow analyses were used to describe and present the source and destination of tilapia per market participant and the product’s spatial movement. Marketing efficiency was evaluated using marketing margin analysis and product losses.
Three channels were identified, two for fresh tilapia marketing and one for live tilapia marketing. The longest channel was composed of three types of tilapia traders. Labor costs shared the highest (52.55% equal to PhP 24.33/kg) in the marketing costs of tilapia, especially in the harvesting stage where many laborers are needed to harvest the fish. Results showed that the harvester-wholesaler/retailers acquired the largest volume. Meanwhile, tilapia was transported to three market centers namely Metro Manila, Quezon, and Cavite.
The study found out that the nature of price spread of tilapia is highly influenced by the structure of the marketing channel and the amount of marketing margin. The price spread widens when traders have high marketing costs, as well as when traders charge high profits. In addition, as the channel of tilapia gets longer, added costs were considered in the price, making the price of tilapia higher, and thus, making the price spread widen. The marketing margin analysis showed that most of the output-input ratios of traders, specifically traders of fresh tilapia, were relatively higher than the opportunity cost of capital (1.25%). Therefore, most of the traders earn more under normal circumstances. This could be attributed to the high profits charged to the price paid in tilapia, making consumers pay for a high retail price. Duplication of service was also seen in the marketing of tilapia, resulting in additional marketing costs. There were no product losses in the marketing of tilapia. In general, the marketing system of tilapia in Laurel, Batangas was considered inefficient due to the huge and unreasonable profit taken by most of the traders, especially in fresh tilapia marketing.
Common problems encountered by tilapia producers in producing the commodity were fish kills, natural disasters, fish cage plates, and low farmgate prices. Meanwhile, traffic, poor road conditions, and slow sales were the usual problems in tilapia marketing.
The study recommends that harvesting of tilapia be mechanized since this marketing practice accounts for the largest share in the labor costs of the marketing chain
Effects of Mobile Palengke in Selected Barangays in Pasig City during the Covid-19 Pandemic
No full textMobile Palengkes emerged as a response to the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on food access in Pasig City. It aimed to provide essential goods directly to residents while minimizing exposure to crowded traditional markets. This study examined the effects of Mobile Palengkes on the residents of Pasig City, focusing on Barangays Bambang and San Joaquin. This research study evaluated the economic, social, and environmental effects of Mobile Palengkes in the aforementioned barangays in Pasig City.
The general objective of this study was to analyze the effects of Mobile Palengkes in selected barangays in Pasig City on residents’ access to fresh produce and essential goods. Specifically, it aimed to: (1) describe the operations of Mobile Palengke, detailing its structure, goods provided, and logistical aspects within the selected barangays in Pasig City; (2) evaluate the benefits experienced by consumers from the Mobile Palengke in terms of economic, social, and environmental effects compared to those who did not engage in this initiative; and (3) draw policy implications based on the results of the study.
The research methodology involved a counterfactual analysis between Barangay San Joaquin with access to Mobile Palengkes, and Barangay Bambang without access. Statistical tests including t-tests, chi-square tests, and Cramer\u27s V coefficient were employed to assess the association between access to Mobile Palengkes and various economic, social, and environmental factors. Qualitative data from key informant interviews and focus group discussions provided additional insights into the operational aspects and community perceptions of Mobile Palengkes.
Findings revealed significant economic benefits for residents with access to Mobile Palengkes, including reduced transportation costs and lower grocery expenses. Socially, communities with Mobile Palengke access reported enhanced social support and larger social networks. Environmentally, Mobile Palengkes contributed to household waste reduction practices.
Given the significant benefits observed from the Mobile Palengke initiative, specifically in Barangay San Joaquin, it is imperative to enhance and adopt this program to address potential challenges and ensure its resilience during future crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Recommendations include investing in digital technologies to streamline operations and improve logistical efficiency, working closely with local producers to diversify product offerings, developing comprehensive emergency preparedness protocols, and fostering collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure efficient logistics and reliable service delivery
Factors Influencing the Purchasing Intention of Working Millennial Women from Selected Areas in Taguig Towards Green Cosmetics
No full textInitial impressions hold great importance. Enhancing one\u27s appearance can foster a positive self-image, boosting confidence and self-esteem. However, the use of makeup may have adverse effects, potentially damaging the skin over time. Furthermore, the cosmetics industry contributes to environmental issues due to its reliance on natural resources, intensifying problems like pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In response, there\u27s a growing movement towards environmentally friendly practices, with increased interest in green products. Green cosmetics offer an alternative, using biodegradable formulations sourced from renewable plants and bacteria, aiming to reduce toxicity and employ transparent manufacturing. They seek to mitigate the health risks associated with certain ingredients found in conventional cosmetics and avoid animal testing, while supporting fair trade and ethical sourcing.
As consumers increasingly prioritize health, wellness, and environmental sustainability, concerns regarding natural resource depletion and environmental damage have gained importance. This awareness has driven a demand for eco-friendly options, especially in beauty and personal care products, that promote skin health while minimizing harm to the environment and society. This study aims to explore the influence of perceived quality, consciousness, and peers towards attitudes, peer influence towards subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control to further understand how these constructs influence the purchasing intentions of working millennial women in Taguig towards green cosmetics. As the largest demographic in the workforce, they wield significant purchasing power and are inclined towards brands aligning with their values and social ideals. Hence, grasping their preferences and attitudes is pivotal for businesses aiming to engage effectively with this cohort. This study holds significance as there is limited research on green cosmetics in the Philippine context. Despite growing environmental awareness in the Philippines, green product acceptance remains relatively unexplored.
This study adopts a descriptive research design, a method employed in scientific inquiry to objectively depict and observe phenomena in their natural state. Utilizing a structured questionnaire compiled from various previously published studies, a quantitative research approach was employed. Descriptive data analysis techniques were then utilized to identify trends and relationships within the data. Modified Kruskal Drivers Analysis was employed to identify the key driver influencing purchasing intentions, while the significance of relationships between variables was assessed using Spearman\u27s Rank Correlation, a non-parametric measure of correlation. These tests were conducted using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), a software tool commonly utilized for statistical analysis.
The study surveyed 104 respondents, with 74.04% falling into the late millennial subgroup (ages 28-36) and 25.96% in the early millennials (ages 37-42). Descriptive analysis revealed that millennial women predominantly use green cosmetics to enhance their self-image, emphasizing the significance they place on self-perception. Environmental considerations highlighted a common dilemma regarding beauty product packaging recycling, necessitating increased awareness due to varied recycling practices among respondents. Recycling is crucial for environmental preservation, offering benefits such as waste reduction, resource conservation, and pollution mitigation. Health consciousness, appearance consciousness, and perceived quality shows insignificant relationship with millennial women’s attitude towards green cosmetics. There is a considerable room for improvement in effectively marketing green cosmetics. While some respondents found marketing efforts effective, others urged clearer communication of sustainability goals and product benefits. Generally, environmental consciousness significantly influences millennial women\u27s attitude towards green cosmetics, aligning with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Ingredient transparency and brand values are prioritized over packaging design, reflecting their commitment to sustainability in the cosmetics industry.
Regarding external influences, there is a noteworthy correlation between the subjective norms of working millennial women and peer influence, indicating that peer influence can shape their subjective norms. This corresponds with the significance of belongingness among millennials and its impact on their norms and interpersonal connections. Recognizing this correlation illuminates the role of environmental consciousness in shaping social norms and peer relationships among millennials, underscoring the necessity of considering these factors in understanding consumer behavior towards green cosmetics.
The study reveals the awareness of millennials, specifically from the late millennial sub-group, on their individual decision-making capacity concerning green cosmetics and consumer choices in general. While both environmental consciousness and peer influence impact intention, the primary driver of a millennial\u27s purchasing intention is perceived behavioral control—their independence and capability in decision-making. Overall findings shows that the late millennial sub-group are mainly affected by these significant factors. Determinants for attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control shows that late millennial women intention is highly influenced considering the indicators of intention. In a general sense, environmental consciousness is an important determinant of attitude to purchase green cosmetics but is only applicable to the late millennial sub-group. Early millennials shows decreased consciousness as they grow older, probably because of the shift of priorities from personal gains to family prioritization. Late millennials, as the group mostly concerned about attitude, shows that there is high consciousness on their purchasing decisions since they’re most likely prioritizes oneself only. Late millennial women expressed willingness to pay a premium for brands known for quality natural ingredients, often making repeat purchases independently. However, product quality remains the ultimate purchasing factor, based on brand knowledge and past experiences. Animal welfare increasingly influences millennial consumers\u27 choices among green cosmetics, highlighting companies\u27 responsibility to clarify and be transparent in their messaging, particularly regarding claims related to animal testing. Additionally, findings shows that the late millennials are mostly concerned with the perceptions of the people within their environment which indicates that they are easily influenced by what their family, friends, and other external forces relay to them. This is explained by the idea that late millennials are basically the new additions to the working force, starting their own socialization circles, and is still highly dependent on their parents. However, late millennials also shows control on their decisions which is proven by perceived behavioral control construct being the main driver of purchasing intention. This means that although late millennials typically value the comments of others, they still decide for themselves at the end of the day. All of these factors changes as millennials age because, as mentioned, there is a shift of prioritization.
Findings highlights that consumers\u27 purchase intentions are greatly influenced by their environmental attitudes, peer influence, and perceived control over their decisions. Furthermore, consumers\u27 understanding of the product and their perception of its quality are crucial factors in shaping their choices. These insights provide valuable guidance for brands operating in the green cosmetic industry, indicating the importance of developing a strong product positioning strategy and effective marketing campaigns. Businesses can capitalize on these insights by tailoring their marketing strategies to enhance consumer perceived value, thus generating interest and fostering a positive attitude towards green cosmetic products. Policymakers in regions with unclear regulations should address misleading communication regarding animal testing in cosmetics and personal care products. Having concrete marketing strategies anchored towards relaying the full potential of green cosmetics in improving an individual’s personal integrity while promoting green movement is a strong combination on how the green cosmetics industry in the Philippines can further elevate their positioning in the market
Valuation of sea turtle conservation: the case of domestic tourists in Brgy. Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union
No full textThe Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions (CURMA) is a public and private partnership project that protects keystone species that is at risk from predators and poachers. In order to maintain and expand Project CURMA\u27s operations, this study would like to examine the possibility of establishing a funding mechanism that would originate from tourists in La Union. Further, the study aimed to assess the level of awareness of domestic tourists with regards, Brgy. Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union being a sea turtle nesting site, and impacts of anthropogenic activities in the barangay to the sea turtle; estimate the willingness-to-pay (WTP). The study used the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), specifically the Single Bounded Dichotomous Choice (SBDC) Method, to estimate the WTP of the domestic tourists. The study analyzed the factors affecting the willingness of tourists to pay and estimated the WTP across four datasets adjusted for different corrections. The logistic regression run results showed that bid amount is negative and significant, while income is positive and significant across all datasets — both complying with the economic theory. This study demonstrates that domestic tourists are willing to pay for sea turtle conservation eliciting a mean WTP range of Php 271.88 to Php 307.29 (using Hanneman’s approach), and a mean WTP range of Php 163.92 to Php 189.58 (using Turnbull Estimator). Further, estimated revenue were also computed using Hanneman’s Approach and Turnbull Estimator, ranging from Php 24,615,684.74 to Php 29,178,166.37, and Php 14,680,211.9 to Php 19,127,294.03, respectively
Principal component analysis: programming and application
No full textStatistical principles behind principal component analysis as a multivariate procedure and its application to nine socio-economic variables were illustrated. Educational attainments et both the head and children in a household had the highest weights or loadings on the first component, tenure status on the second component, size of the family and food consumption on the third component, thus indicating the magnitude of effects of these variables on the total variability of each component or factor. However, the analysis done on both covariance and correlation matrices did not, in general, distinctly pool the variables most associated with one another. This was attributed to the low intercorrelations and observed relative similarity in variances among the variables which represented some of the characteristics of a rural population. The extraction of components and their variances was facilitated by a computer program suited for the IBM 1620