University Knowledge Digital Repository UPLB (University of the Philippines Los Baños)
University Knowledge Digital Repository UPLB (University of the Philippines Los Baños)Not a member yet
25810 research outputs found
Sort by
Techno-Economic Feasibility of Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) Production from Corn Stover
Get PDFThis research evaluated the techno-economic feasibility of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) production using corn stover as a substrate for the fermentation process. The target PHB plant production was set at 1000 t PHB per yr, with a daily production of about 3 t PHB. The required corn stover biomass was around 12 000 t per yr. The economic analysis of this study suggested that 91.13 M US per yr. Fixing the return of investment (ROI) at 7%, the base selling price of PHB was computed at 11.80 US kg-1, which is comparable to the literature. The average cost of PHB was 7.50 US$ kg-1. To further lower the PHB price, higher sugar yield and productivity, lower enzyme cost, lower pretreatment energy cost, and higher PHB productivity must be established. Furthermore, low-cost sugar or carbon-rich substrate without the need for rigorous upstream processing may also be identified and investigated to produce PHB. Overall, PHB production using agricultural substrates such as corn stover is competitive and feasible
The development of a Filipino posttraumatic growth scale: measuring the positive outcomes of trauma in the Filipino experience
No full textThis study aimed to develop a scale to gauge the extent of the Filipino experience of personal growth following exposure to a crisis. The study involved two phases: item development and reliability analysis. In phase one, the researchers adopted the domains of posttraumatic growth found by Tedeschi and Calhoun (1996) and Taku and colleagues (2008) and generated 10-items for each domain. Item generation was guided by literature review, researchers’ reflections on their past traumatic experiences, experiences of people who suffered from or exposed to highly distressing life circumstances, and consultation with experts. In phase two, it was found that the internal consistency of the domains of the generated 50-item scale was relatively high (Spiritual development Cronbach’s α=0.937, Openness to new experience Cronbach’s α = 0.867, Personal strength Cronbach’s α = 0.716, Positive relationships Cronbach’s α = 0. 821, and Appreciation of life Cronbach’s α = 0.881). Poor items were also removed to improve the internal consistency of some domains of the scale
Blue Growth in the Philippine Blue Economy: the Case of Selected Island Provinces
No full textThe Philippines, as the second-largest archipelago in the world, holds vast potential within its marine territories, offering an estimated one-trillion-peso worth of economic opportunities. Part of the United Nations’ SDG 14: Life Below Water is the concept of the blue economy, which serves as a new engine for economic growth by sustainably utilizing marine resources. However, in the Philippine context, the blue economy remains “unpopular, underutilized, and underappreciated”, highlighting the need for comprehensive studies to assess its economic contributions. This paper focuses on coastal and marine tourism, the largest sector of the Philippine blue economy, in 11 selected provinces, including Batanes, Palawan, Oriental Mindoro, Aklan, Bohol, Cebu, Siquijor, Camiguin, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, and Sulu. The study aims to identify the profile of each island province in terms of coastal and marine tourism; examine the correlation between GDP, poverty incidence, and HDI across and within these provinces; and investigate the relationship between GDP and key variables such as tourism revenue, provincial competitiveness index, tourist arrivals, cargo throughput, passenger traffic, and inflation. The pooled cross-sectional data from 2018 to 2022 of the variables were analyzed using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) Regression. Results revealed that only the tourism revenue, passenger traffic, and cargo throughput were positive and statistically significant to the GDP. In an era marked by increasing environmental awareness and the pursuit of sustainable economic growth, it is imperative to prioritize the key factors related to the ocean-based blue economy to harness the Philippines’ full potential of its marine resources
Prevalence and factors associated with food insecurity among college students from the University of the Philippines Los Baños
No full textFood insecurity is a common concern on college campuses that risks the student\u27s well- being and performance. Despite its importance, there is a lack of studies concerning college students\u27 food security status and associated factors in the Philippines. This study determined the sample prevalence of food insecurity and associated factors among UPLB students. In Midyear 2023, 104 students completed an online survey covering demographic information, food insecurity, food access, barriers, consequences, and coping strategies. The respondents age ranged from 18 to 24 years old, and the majority were female (74%). The study found that 76.92% of the students were food insecure, with monthly allowance (p-value=0.003) and a childhood history of food insecurity (p-value=0.001) identified as risk factors. Food-insecure students were more likely to experience struggles such as not having enough money for food (82.50%), difficulty concentrating (62.50%) and opting for cheaper but less nutritious meals (91.25%). The results of this study provide information on the challenges faced by at-risk college students to get the essential needs including adequate food access, stable housing, and healthcare
The Association between Domestic Remittances and Financial Inclusion form Selected Upper Middle-Income and Lower Midlle-Income Countries in Asia
No full textUsing the World Bank Global Findex database, this study investigates the association of domestic remittances and financial inclusion in Asian countries particularly belonging to the upper-middle income (UMICs) and lower middle-income (LMICs). The results reveal that UMICs enjoy higher levels of financial inclusion than LMICs particularly in formal credit. The use of bank or mobile accounts is found common in UMICs while money transfer services in LMICs. Individuals report that high cost of bank account is the main reason for not having formal account. The findings show that domestic remittances have a significant association with formal account ownership, and formal credit in UMICs and LMICs. Additionally, domestic remittances are not associated with formal saving in LMICs while positively associated with UMICs. The study also finds that communication technology such as having mobile phone and access to internet is positively associated with formal account ownership and formal saving but not in formal credit. Among the socio- demographic characteristics age has a consistent nonlinear association with financial inclusion while sex and education vary across financial inclusion indicators between UMICs and LMICs. Policies targeted to reduce bank costs, enhance internet access, and promote more secure financial services would stimulate a more inclusive financial system
Analyzing the Influence of Human Capital Investment on Unemployment in the Philippines
No full textUnemployment in the Philippines continues to be a challenging economic issue. This study aimed to determine the relationship between unemployment and human capital investment indicators – government education expenditure and government health expenditure. Additional explanatory variables namely inflation, population growth and foreign direct investment were also included to examine their effects of other factors in the unemployment rate. Unit root test was used to check for stationarity of each variable. Autoregressive Distributed Lag Approach was used to identify the long-run and short-run relationship of each independent variable to the dependent variable. Tests for autocorrelation, heteroscedasticity, correct specification and normality were applied to ensure the reliability of the model. In the long-run, government health expenditure negatively affects the unemployment because healthier workers tend to look for work or are already employed. Government education expenditure has a positive effect on unemployment due to few employment opportunities and skill mismatch. Inflation positively affects unemployment because of uncertainty that leads to lower investment and lower economic growth while population growth and Foreign Direct Investment were not significant in the long-run. In the short-run, government expenditure on education and inflation negatively affects the unemployment rate, population growth positively affects unemployment while foreign direct investment was not significant
Determinants of Nonconventional Financial Inclusion: Evidence from Southeast Asia before and during the Covid-19 Pandemic
No full textThis study examines the determinants of nonconventional financial inclusion in terms of access (ownership of debit cards, credit cards, and mobile money accounts) and usage (through debit cards and mobile phones or the internet to access accounts and pay bills) in select lower middle-income countries in Southeast Asia that includes Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, and the Philippines before and during the COVID-19 pandemic using the World Bank Global Findex database for 2017 and 2021. The results reveal that a higher level of nonconventional financial inclusion in 2021 has been observed as compared to 2017.Yet, access to and usage of nonconventional financial services remain relatively low. Results show that males, individuals with higher educational attainment, and having higher income are more likely to have access and use digital financial services. Additionally, those employed particularly the younger individuals who are in the early working age group tend to use digital financial services more than the other age groups. Enhancing internet infrastructure, promoting fintech development, and fostering multistakeholder collaborations targeting the underserved populations are essential steps toward more achieving inclusive digital payment environment in Southeast Asia
Gender Differences in Self-employment Across Sectors in the Philippines Before and During the Pandemic
No full textThis study analyzed the gender differences in self-employment across sectors before and during the pandemic. Using the Philippine Labor Force Survey microdata in April 2019 and April 2020, the likelihood of self-employment was analyzed based on demographic, socio-economic, and geographical factors through binary logistic regression.
The logistic analysis of self-employment reveled that workers in the Agriculture and Service sectors have higher odds of being self-employed than those in the Industry sector. The agriculture sector has twice the odds of the Service sector, with the former having higher odds while the latter has lower odds of the Service sector, with the former having higher odds of being self-employed than males, which has slightly increased during the pandemic. Despite the non-significance of the vocational training and underemployment indicators before the pandemic, these factors become significant during the pandemic.
The logistic regression analyses of male and female self-employment in each sector revealed that the likelihood of self-employment increases for older individuals. Members of larger households in the Agriculture and Service sectors have a lower likelihood of being self-employed. Educational attainment is more significant in the Service sector than in the Agriculture and Industry sectors and lowers the likelihood of being self-employed across the sectors. In agriculture, underemployed males are less likely to be self-employed. In the industry sector, females with vocational training are more likely to be self-employed. In the Service sector, males who are first-time workers are less likely to be self-employed before and during the pandemic, while females are less likely only before the pandemic. The likelihood of self-employment is lower for males and females residing in urban areas and lockdown regions. Future studies could examine the gender differences in self-employment after the pandemic and explore other factors influencing self-employment across sectors
Analysis of the Purchasing Intention of Puto Biñan Consumers in Laguna
No full textRice cakes, a traditional Filipino delicacy known as kakainin , hold significant social and economic importance, particularly in the province of Laguna where diverse varieties flourish. This study focuses on Puto Biñan, a rice cake named after the city of Biñan. While Puto Biñan contributes to the local economy by generating employment and attracting tourists through festivals, concerning trends have emerged. Over the years, studies show a decline in kakanin consumption, with these delicacies no longer being actively sought after and primarily associated only with special occasions. Furthermore, sellers heavily rely on tourism, as evidenced by the closure of pasalubong shops (shops selling souvenirs and local delicacies) during the pandemic due to reduced demand and logistical difficulties. Given the challenges faced by Puto Biñan processors and sellers, particularly the unstable market tied to tourist fluctuations and declining consumer interest, a critical need exists for a deeper understanding of Filipino consumer purchase intentions towards kakanin. This study aimed to address this gap by analyzing consumer purchasing intentions, specifically for Puto Biñan. By focusing on this topic, the study aimed to provide valuable insights for processors and sellers to understand the current market landscape and adapt their offerings accordingly. The findings can further contribute to the general understanding of consumer preferences and decision-making processes related to local food products, particularly on rice cakes. Ultimately, this research aspires to serve as a tool for developing successful marketing strategies for Puto Biñan stakeholders within Laguna.
The general objective of this study is to analyze to purchasing intention of Puto Biñan consumers in Laguna. This study used quantitative-correlational approach. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model was extended in this study, and a theoretical framework was created that connects the three probable antecedents which are the perceived food quality, perceived food value, and convenience, to the three behavioral domains, which then affects purchase intention. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data collected.
An analysis of survey responses revealed key characteristics of Puto Biñan consumers. The majority of respondents were female and belonged to the younger age group (18-24 years old). A significant portion of respondents came from nearby cities like Biñan, Calamba, Cabuyao, and San Pedro. In terms of their buying behavior, the study found that consumers primarily bought Puto Biñan for two purposes: as pasalubong (gifts for friends and family) and for personal consumption, particularly as breakfast or snacks. Notably, Nila\u27s Puto emerged as the most preferred store, likely due to its widespread presence compared to other sellers. Lastly, the survey indicated that respondents usually buy Puto Biñan once every few months only.
Based on the analysis of PLS-SEM, the result showed that six out of twelve hypotheses of this study were supported. Perceived food quality and perceived food value, both acted as preceding factors to attitude, which then affect consumers’ purchase intention towards Puto Biñan. On the other hand, even though there were significant preceding factors identified for both subjective norms and perceived behavioral control, findings showed that these two cannot directly predict intention to purchase.
On the basis of the study\u27s findings, recommendations for Puto Biñan processors and sellers were proposed. It is recommended for them to design strategies targeting consumer attitude, while considering the identified significant antecedents for attitude, which are perceived food quality and perceived food value. To create a positive perceived quality towards the delicacy, sellers may focus on targeting the freshness of the food. They can promote that the delicacies are made fresh by considering visible signs in-store or on packaging that indicate freshness of Puto Biñan. To create a positive perceived food value towards Puto Biñan, they can consider catering to different preferences by considering the availability of variations of the delicacy. Considering that Puto Biñan consumers in Laguna are likely young to middle-aged, they can also appeal to younger consumers by creating trendy flavors and aesthetic packaging. For the local government unit of Biñan, integrating Puto Biñan into tourism marketing efforts is recommended, such as organizing cooking demonstrations and cook fests. Highlighting the quality and value of Puto Biñan through engaging video content on websites and social media platforms can also attract new markets. Looking towards future research, the researcher recommends changing some factors in the framework, by integrating other variables such as health consciousness and food safety to extend the TPB model. Furthermore, future studies can also check the exclusivity of the variables used in this study, such as perceived food quality and perceived food value
Adoption of Agricultural Mechanization Through Cooperatives in Smallholding Farms in the Philippines: The Case of Cabuyao Agriculture and Fisheries Multi Purpose Cooperative (CAFMPC)
No full textThe Philippines is classified as low-level mechanization country at a 1.23 hp/ha mechanization level compared to the 4hp/ha average mechanization level for a country. Several studies have pointed out that development of a country\u27s agriculture sector also depends on its capacity to mechanize the agricultural operations. To promote agricultural mechanization, effective information dissemination, education, training is necessary. Studies have pointed out that social enterprises like cooperatives have been proven useful in terms of wide information dissemination, education, and training. Therefore, cooperatives might be able to affect how farmers adopt agricultural mechanization in their operations.
The Cabuyao Agriculture and Fisheries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CAFMPC) is a cooperative based in Cabuyao, Laguna and is offering a rental service a agricultural machinery to farmers in the locality. This study focuses on the external and internal analysis of CAFMPC and how its service model can affect the mechanization efforts of its members and customers. The study used PESTLE and SWOT Analysis to identify the challenges, factors, and effects of mechanizing agricultural operations. The study identified that the main challenges and factors affecting access to agricultural mechanization are financial barriers, preference to manual labor, and lack of appropriate technology that they need. Mechanizing agricultural operations improved the income, yield, and quality of life of the farmers, but increased their expenses. The Business Model Canvas and Service Blueprint were used to present the overall operations of the cooperative and how they deliver their service to their members and customers. The study revealed that CAFMPC has a lot to improve in their Operations, Human Resources, and Marketing, while their Financials are in good status. The study showed that CAFMPC has the influence to affect the shift of the farmers to mechanization, however, they lack the right approach to effectively do this.
The study used the Case Study Method and Fishbone Analysis Model to identify how CAFMPC might improve their operations to improve the adoption of agricultural mechanization among smallholder farms. The conclusion reached by the study is that CAFMPC should invest in having small-scale equipment for rent to ease the transition form manual labor to mechanized operations. The cooperative should also improve the training and education of their members, marketing strategies, and specific aspects of their operations such as providing a clear service menu and process for their services