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Assessment of the Quality Management Practices of the Mud Crab Industry Players in Gubat, Sorsogon
No full textMud or Mangrove crab is a variety of crab with 4 different sub-species which are Scylla serrata, Scylla olivacea, Scylla transquebarica, and Scylla paramamosain. The most popular type of mud crab is the Scylla serrata or what we know as “Bulik” or “King Crab” in the Philippines (Ladesma, 2023). This variety was the focus of the study. In 2017, the Philippines was the 2nd top producer of mud crabs in the world (RARE, 2019). The mangrove crab industry in Gubat, Sorsogon has a revenue of more than Php. 50 million a year.
The purpose of this study was to analyze the quality management practices in Gubat, Sorsogon. Specifically, the specific objectives of the study were to (1) Describe the socio-demographic profile and characteristics of the mud crab key players. (2) Discuss the production, marketing, and trading practices relevant to the quality management in the mud crab industry in Gubat, Sorsogon. (3) Compare the compliance level of the local mud crab industry in terms of quality standards for mud crabs to that of internationally established standards. (4) Assess the mud crab quality compliance of the mud crab industry players of Gubat, Sorsogon to the Philippines (BAF GAqP), and International (FAO manual), and the quality standards of the customers. (5) Evaluate the factors, challenges, and prospects faced by the mud crab industry players in terms of its quality management practices in the value chain. (6) Formulate recommendations to improve the quality of the mud crabs to maintain the industry’s competitiveness. There were 30 gatherers, 32 operators, and 28 traders that were subjected to the survey. For the Focus group Discussion, the study had 10 respondents for each FGD. The 10 respondents were 3 gathers, 4 fishpond operators, and 3 traders. The study had 3 FGDs, which means that 30 respondents participated in the FGD. Both qualitative and quantitative data were gathered and used in the study.
The age profile of the three key players varied. The age range for the industry was from 11-74. When it comes to the level of education, most of the gatherers were elementary graduates while most of the traders and operators were college graduates. The average number of industry experience for the three groups was 21.6 for the gatherers, 24.87 for the operators, and 23.86 for the traders. The average monthly income for mud crab gatherers was Php. 7,200. For the mud crab operators, it was Php. 34,469 and Php. 34,705 was for the traders. The most prominent type of farm culture practiced in the mud crab industry was polyculture. The size of the farm ranged from 0.05 ha to 170 ha. Most of the fishponds were privately owned but without an FLA. For trading, most traders own their trading business.
When it comes to gathering there were two types of catching gear which were the duyan-duyan and the sudsud. The caught seed stocks ranged from 2,000 to 10,000 pieces for peak season and 500 to 1,000 pieces for lean seasons. The gatherers’ mode of transportation to sell these mud crab seedstocks was by foot and motorcycle. The number of seed stocks dropped in the fishpond ranged from 1,500 to 200,000 pieces for peak season and 0 to 75,000 pieces for lean seasons. The price of one peso per piece in the lean season goes up to 3 or 4 pesos per seed stock during peak seasons. There were two types of feeds used by the mud crab operators which were the commercial feeds and trash fish. For the equipment in harvesting, Bintol was a harvesting device used by mud crab operators. For pest management practices, most small-scale operators use pesticides to kill these species while some use manual removal. For manpower, most of the fishpond farms in the industry have only one employee who is also the owner of the farm. For long-term transportation, bayongs were used. Transporting mud crabs to the local market uses rice sacks and net bags. There were three ways of transporting the mud crabs to the local markets which were by foot or using vehicles like motorcycles and tricycles. There are 4 modes of transportation when it comes to the outside markets. These were the vans, jeepneys, buses, and planes.
The researcher tested the level of compliance with the BAF standards of each of the players. The gatherers had a mean of 3.73 which means that their level of compliance is “often practiced.” When it comes to the traders, the mean level of compliance was at 3.36 which was sometimes practiced. For the operators, their mean level of compliance was at 3.22 which meant often practiced. All in all, the level of compliance with the BAF standards of the industry was often practiced. Some of the key areas that have the lowest level of compliance were packaging and labeling, sampling and analysis, and minimizing stress throughout the chain. Process description and checking for defects were the categories with the highest level of compliance. The level of compliance with the standard practices in the FAO manual that was not included in the BAF standards was also tested. The mean level of compliance with the FAO manual was 3.89 which means that it was often practiced. After cross-correlating the practices with different variables, only the primary income of the traders and operators had a significant correlation with the level of compliance. Thus, the higher the income, the better the level of compliance when it comes to traders and operators. A 65.29% increase in net profit was observed for a 0.05-ha mud crab farm when quality management practices were observed. For a 0.5-ha farm, it had a 78.34% increase. For a 170-ha farm, a 53.50% increase in net profit was observed when the farm used the quality management practices enumerated in the BAF standards. Qualities like fat content, complete and symmetric mud crab body parts, the absence of defectives in their shells, and a preference for juvenile female mud crabs are the quality characteristics that the customers were looking for. During the three Focus Group Discussions five main factors affected compliance which were climate change, lack of government support, the perspective of the key player, lack of awareness and resources, and customer perception. The participants enumerated and described these factors and the problems that they face in the industry. These were the water salinity, feed size, diseases, frauds and scams, and the process of permitting.
From the results and discussion, the researcher recommended actions which were the use of approved gears by the gatherers, proper packaging and labeling by the traders, and government-issued permits by the farm operators should be done. The local and national governments should provide support for the industry. This could be in the form of programs, policies, and regulations. Regulation against the biosecurity threat of “pulahan”, and policies for packaging and labeling of transported mud crabs are needed by the industry
A coastal community’s readiness, response, and recovery to volcanic eruptions: the case of Lemery, Batangas during the 2020 Taal eruption
No full textThis research study examines the readiness, response, and recovery efforts of a coastal community, specifically the municipality of Lemery in Batangas, in the face of the 2020 Taal volcanic eruption. Through a comprehensive analysis of primary data obtained from interviews, and surveys, as well as secondary data from government reports and academic literature, the study investigates the preparedness measures implemented by the community, their immediate response actions during the eruption, and the subsequent recovery processes. The research aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of existing disaster preparedness plans and the resilience of coastal communities in addressing volcanic hazards. The study reveals the individualized efforts of communities to volcanic eruptions with respect to their socio-economic status. This analysis also highlights critical factors influencing communities’ readiness, responses, and recovery including barriers to technological knowledge, income levels, weak community involvement, competency of local leaders, and availability of resources. Recommendations for improving the disaster efforts require a multi-sectoral and cross-boundary coordination amongst various stakeholders, underscoring the need for a comprehensive disaster risk reduction and management plan for coastal communities
UP Los Baños Journal, Volume 22 - iCEAT 2024 Special Issue
No full textThe Issue Editor Speaks
The University Publications Office (UPO) is proud to present the 2024 Special Issue of the UP Los Baños Journal: Adaptive Engineering in Industry 5.0. This edition features six compelling articles selected from presentations at the 3rd International Conference on Engineering and Agro Industrial Technology (iCEAT 2024), a highlight of the 112th Founding Anniversary of the College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology (CEAT).
We extend our deepest appreciation to the authors for their dedication and rigorous research contributions. Your work has greatly enriched this publication and contributed to the advancement of knowledge in engineering, technology, and sustainable practices. The articles included in this special issue highlight innovative solutions and thought-provoking insights that push the boundaries of traditional engineering and reflect the dynamic nature of adaptive engineering in the Industry 5.0 era.
To our readers, we invite you to explore these articles and engage with the innovative research and valuable insights they offer. Each paper provides a unique perspective that sparks meaningful dialogue within academia and beyond. We believe these contributions will not only stimulate academic curiosity but also inspire further studies and practical applications in the field.
Our gratitude also goes to CEAT for entrusting UPO with the publication of these significant works. This partnership underscores the shared commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, academic rigor, and excellence within the University. The collaboration between CEAT and UPO exemplifies the strong support system that fuels ground breaking research and facilitates the dissemination of knowledge across disciplines. Special acknowledgment is extended to Dr. Marc Immanuel G. Isip, whose invaluable role as co-Editor of this special issue has ensured that each article meets the highest standards of scholarly integrity and relevance.
As we move forward, let us continue to uphold the principles of academic integrity, curiosity, and collaboration that are the cornerstones of our scholarly community. May we also embrace the ideals of Industry 5.0, where technology serves humanity, and sustainability takes center stage. Together, let us strive to create a future where innovation and human-centric approaches thrive in harmony, fostering growth and resilience in the ever-evolving landscape of engineering and technology.
Nancy E. Añez-Tandang, PhD
Editor-in-Chief, 2024 UP Los Baños Journa
Impact Assessment of Social Amelioration Program (SAP) on the Food Expenditure and Nutrition of Household Beneficiaries in 2020 in Barangay Batong Malake, Los Baños, Laguna
No full textThe COVID-19 pandemic brought a major economic concern to the Philippines because of its unemployment and increase in food prices consequences that had disturbing effects on the purchasing power and food and nutrition security of Filipinos. In response, the Philippine government provided social assistance to mitigate these harmful effects especially among the poor and vulnerable individuals. One of these initiatives was the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. It aimed to offer cash assistance to the Philippines\u27 most vulnerable households. This study was conducted to assess the effect of SAP on the food expenditure and nutrition of the SAP household beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically, in Barangay Batong Malake, Los Baños, Laguna.. In order to attain these objectives, paired t-test and correlation were done. The 2020 data regarding the household monthly income, amount of food purchased, and nutrient consumption were gathered from the respondents from Barangay, Batong Malake, Los Baños, Laguna. There was a significant difference in monthly household income during months with and without SAP cash assistance. But depending solely on SAP cash assistance for additional income appeared insufficient in 2020, as it covered only a small percentage of the beneficiaries\u27 average annual household income. The results also revealed the association between monthly household income and monthly expenditures during the months with SAP cash assistance. However, the association between monthly household income and food purchases during the months with SAP cash assistance was not significant, except for fruits and vegetables which were considered as normal and inferior good, respectively. Concerning monthly household income and nutrient consumption, their correlation was also not evident during the months with SAP cash assistance. Providing alternative employment opportunities for household beneficiaries can help mitigate the effects of natural calamities or national emergencies. Similarly, maintaining stable prices of agricultural commodities during pandemic is crucial to ensure continued affordability of essential food baskets. Given that there was no observed association between monthly household income and nutrient intake during months with SAP cash assistance, providing in-kind food assistance may be more beneficial. It would directly supply food that could help in addressing hunger and nutrient deficiencies among household beneficiaries. Furthermore, incorporating vitamins or supplements tailored to specific malnutrition concerns may prove beneficial
In or Out?: understanding the Japanese immigration policymaking process and the sub-national response to the challenge of global migration
No full textThere is no comprehensive Japanese immigration policy. The central government has refused to formally acknowledge a need for an immigration policy, viewing immigrants as a threat to public order and cultural homogeneity. Despite this, local governments still need to address the needs of their foreign residents and maintain the peace in the local communities. Some of these policies dovetail with each other; others have no counterpart on the other level of governance. What one can then observe with the national government in Tokyo and the local governments instead is a patchwork that involves some tangential, but for the main part, divergent lines. The trend, however, towards overall securitization of immigration in the country is quite noticeable. Furthermore, this fragmented policy situation does not provide maximum protection or safeguards to migrant residents in the country. This paper will address the question of what accounts for this policy environment
Plotting power in the Philippine-China territorial dispute using the peripheral realism lens
No full textThis paper investigates China’s relations with the Philippines, especially focusing on its use of power in enforcing its claim of territories in the West Philippine Sea or the South China Sea. As such, this paper wishes to answer the following questions: How is power manifested in China’s actions vis-à-vis the Philippines regarding the territories of which both states set claim to? Being one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China wields power and influence in the international community. As such, how does it capitalize on that position in dealing with its weaker neighbors like the Philippines? What are the manifestations of such controlling actions? In this connection, this paper endeavors to test the hypothesis that the more power a state possesses, the greater the possibility for that state to use such power to control weaker states. To explain the relationships of the two states, the Peripheral Realism Theory is used by this paper as its framework, as explained by Argentine political scientist Carlos Escude. Using this theory, China is seen as a State that Commands or Controls while the Philippines is a State that Obeys. This paper found out that power in the Weberian sense, is used by states to control and let other states conform to the rules set by the powerful states. China as a powerful state uses such power to control weak states like the Philippines. This is a qualitative study and uses the deductive approach in explaining how power features in the relationship between China and the Philippines
Value co-creation through digital channels influencing purchase intention in confectionery food service businesses
No full textThis study introduces the concept of online co-creation as a probable resource-sharing strategy, which recognizes the evolving role of customers in the value chain. These customers provide valuable information that enhances knowledge and capabilities in the organization’s processes. Despite the growing interest in value co-creation in recent years, much remains to be explored on how it manifests in industry-specific and cultural contexts, specifically in the Philippine confectionery industry, which constitutes a significant sector that drives the foodservice industry in the country. The study tests a developed conceptual model that involves value co-creation and its influence on purchase intention; importantly, this relationship is tested altogether with the direct and indirect effects of brand connection, and experiential value (extrinsic and intrinsic). Through a quantitative methodology, a total of 294 responses were collected and analyzed using the partial least squares – structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique. Results showed that co-creation influences an increased willingness of the customers to purchase, and this influence was partially mediated by 1) extrinsic experiential value, i.e., the pragmatic aspects of the product; and 2) brand connection as formed through relational links and online communities. Overall, the findings can be used by the confectionery foodservice businesses to leverage customer experiences to effectively design their value co-creation strategies
Analgesic potential of the Mimosa pudica L. leaf decoction using the primary dysmenorrhea mouse model
No full textPrimary dysmenorrhea, a common menstrual pain, is often treated with nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which may cause side effects. In contrast, herbal medicine, such as Mimosa pudica L., has been used in the Philippines due to its accessibility and reportedly fewer side effects. This study investigated the analgesic potential of an aqueous M. pudica leaf decoction in a primary dysmenorrhea mouse model. Phytochemical analysis of the extract was also conducted and results revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, sterols, triterpenoids, and glycosides. Twenty sexually mature female ICR mice (Mus musculus) were orally pretreated with estradiol valerate for four days, then treated on the fifth day with one of the following through gavage method: 10 mLK-1 distilled water (negative control), aqueous M. pudica leaf decoction (100, 200, and 400 mgK-1), and 90 mgK-1 mefenamic acid (positive control). Thirty minutes later, each mouse received intraperitoneally 0.4 IU oxytocin to induce abdominal writhing. Writhing frequency was highest and lowest in the negative and positive control groups, respectively, and intermediate in animals treated with 100 and 200 mgK-1 extract. No significant difference, however, was found among groups in terms of writhing responses, as well as uterine morphometry. Uterine histological analysis among treatment groups showed normal tissue organization. Given the presence of compounds with known analgesic properties in the extract, a higher concentration may produce a strong analgesic activity. Further studies may support the use of M. pudica as an alternative treatment against primary dysmenorrhea
Assessment of the Adoption of the Digital Platform DigiCOOP by the Farmer-Members of Libacao Development Cooperative and Valderama Multipurpose Cooperative in Aklan and Antique, Philippines, 2023
No full textThis study aimed to identify the factors associated with the adoption of DigiCOOP services among farmer-members of the Libacao Development Cooperative (LDC) and Valderrama Multipurpose Cooperative (VMPC) in Aklan and Antique in 2023. The analysis considered variables such as age, sex, education level, number of technologically literate children in the household, internet access, amount spent on the internet, and perception score. Additionally, adopters provided feedback on their satisfaction and experience with DigiCOOP services. The Chi-square test of independence and Cramer’s V were utilized to determine the factors associated with adoption and the strength of these associations.
The results revealed that age, sex, number of technologically literate children in the household, and perception score were significantly associated with the adoption. Specifically, sex and the number of technologically literate children exhibited moderate associations with adoption, while age and perception score demonstrated strong associations.
These findings underscored the significant role of sex in adoption decisions, with a higher presence of females among both adopters and non-adopters, indicating gender dynamics in technology adoption. Moreover, the higher average number of technologically literate children among adopters emphasized the influence of familial technological literacy. Older farmer-members were more inclined to adopt DigiCOOP, possibly due to their familiarity with cooperative services or a greater perceived need for digital solutions. Positive perceptions also suggested continued usage among adopters and potential adoption among non-adopters.
However, challenges were identified, including a discrepancy between non- adopters\u27 positive perceptions and their reasons for non-adoption, potentially attributed to bias in the context of data collection. It is recommended to implement tailored strategies such as targeted workshops, leveraging community influence, and addressing technical challenges, particularly in rural areas, to facilitate broader adoption of digital platforms like DigiCOOP, ensuring equitable access and maximizing benefits for all cooperative members. Future research should delve deeper into non-adopters\u27 perceptions, as well as recognize geographical disparities and the impact of off-farm responsibilities on adoption rates and access to training opportunities
Design, Fabrication, and Determination of the Optimum Working Conditions of a Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Pneumatic Bagging System
No full textThe peanut bagging process is not mechanized, it requires a large amount of human labor. In addition, the shovel or canister used in bagging breaks the peanut shell that causes losses. The purpose of this study is to reduce the required workforce by mechanizing the peanut bagging process, and to determine the optimum working criteria (hose diameter and air velocity) of the prototype machine. A peanut pneumatic bagging machine powered by a tractor power takeoff (PTO) was designed and fabricated to convey peanut pods from the ground and fill the product into the bags. To determine the optimum working conditions of the machine, tests are conducted using three hose diameters (100, 120, and 160 mm) and three air speeds (23, 25, and 27 m s-1 ). Machine work capacity, fuel consumption, and physical product damage were identified. The terminal velocity value of the peanut pods was calculated as 14.48 ± 2.08 m s-1 . Air speed twice the terminal velocity was applied to prevent pressure drop in the transport pipe and ensure flow continuity. The hose with a diameter of 160 mm give the highest work capacity and the lowest fuel consumption. The air velocity of 27 m s-1 in the hose was the most successful in terms of both work capacity and fuel consumption. No product damage was verified during the trials, and the prototype machine was found to be effective for the peanut bagging process