University Knowledge Digital Repository UPLB (University of the Philippines Los Baños)
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Illuminating the dark : an analysis of mental health, stressorsm and dark humor as experiences by UPRHS Senior High School students
No full textWhile previous studies have explored dark humor’s adaptive and maladaptive nature as a coping strategy, individual responses to such humor vary widely depending on contexts and personal experiences. Despite its growing prevalence in historical and contemporary discourse, few studies have investigated the psychological mechanisms underlying dark humor and its impact on mental well-being, particularly within a younger, localized demographic. Thus, the study examines how University of the Philippines Rural High School (UPRHS) senior high school students experience dark humor by analyzing the relationships between their usage and enjoyment of dark humor, stressors, and mental health. Using self-made and validated questionnaires, data were gathered on the following variables: Dark Humor Engagement, Dark Humor Enjoyment, Stressors (Self-Regulation, Familial, Peers, Economic/Financial, Academic), and SED-S (measured negative mental health status). In total, 162 valid responses were collected, composited, and then analyzed through correlation matrices and stepwise linear regression. Key findings reveal that Grade 12 students show higher engagement and enjoyment of dark humor, whereas Grade 11 students report poorer mental health status. Dark Humor Engagement exhibited a weak but significant positive correlation with all stressors, while Dark Humor Enjoyment correlated only with Self-Regulation, Familial, and Academic stressors. Moreover, SED-S scores correlated with both dark humor metrics, suggesting a link between dark humor use and poor mental health. Notably, only a few correlated variables revealed themselves to be sufficiently capable predictors: Self-Regulation and Academic with Dark Humor Engagement, Familial with Dark Humor Enjoyment, and Dark Humor Engagement with SED-S. These results may suggest that using dark humor is maladaptive, where frequent interaction reflects underlying patterns of emotional avoidance or internalized stress, rather than resilience. Thus, future research is advised to employ causal designs, refine operational definitions of dark humor, and incorporate cognitive appraisal measures to further elucidate these relationships
Youth’s perception of the role of local governance in flood management of Barangay Malanday, Marikina City
No full textFlood management remains a major concern in Barangay Malanday, Marikina City, a flood-prone urban area. This quantitative study investigates the perceptions of youth aged 15 to 30 regarding the role of local governance in flood management and how these perceptions relate to their civic engagement. Guided by Shier’s Pathways to Participation and Putnam’s Civic Engagement Theory, the research used a structured survey to measure civic knowledge, trust in local officials, social capital, and levels of participation. Results show that youth acknowledge the importance of barangay-led flood efforts, but their engagement is mostly limited to being informed or consulted, with little involvement in actual decision-making. Civic knowledge emerged as the strongest factor shaping positive perceptions of governance, followed by trust and social capital. A notable gender gap was found: males reported higher active participation, while females were more often inactive, pointing to possible socio-cultural barriers. The study highlights the need for more inclusive, youth-centered platforms in disaster risk reduction. Future studies should explore structural and gender-based factors affecting participation, and consider mixed-method or longitudinal designs for deeper insight
A capstone internship at the Agricultural Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AMTEC) UPLB on the comparison of small engine vibration behavior during testing
No full textThe Agricultural Machinery Testing and Evaluation Center (AMTEC), located at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, is responsible for the performance testing and evaluation of agricultural and fisheries machinery. According to AMTEC, engine vibration is hypothesized to be associated with engine degradation, performance loss, and test result alteration. Additionally, most literature related to vibration also suggests a physiological impact on the users of these engines. For these reasons, the researchers conducted an internship with AMTEC to compare the vibration behaviors of gasoline and diesel small engines during a varying load test procedure. During the internship, the researchers were introduced to the operations of each division of the testing center and were oriented on the procedure for the varying load test as prescribed by PAES 117:2000 (Agricultural Machinery – Small Engine – Methods of Test). Vibration data from the X, Y, and Z axes from two gasoline engines and two diesel engines were collected using a Vernier 3D-BTA triaxial accelerometer connected to a LabQuest 2 data logger. Vibration levels (ax , ay , az) were measured starting from the small engine’s rated max speed with readings taken at every decrement of 100 RPM. These were then processed into root mean square (RMS) values, followed by statistical comparisons using ANOVA and Kruskal–Wallis tests between and within each set of diesel and gasoline engines. The results of the tests show that the vibration levels of the gasoline engines differ significantly at the Z axis, while the diesel engines differ significantly at the X and Z axes. Vibration levels between gasoline and diesel engines are also significantly different. Based on these findings, the researchers recommend conducting further research ventures that include a larger sample of small engines, utilizing reliable instrumentation, increasing testing intervals, and ensuring standardized testing conditions for improved data integrity and validity
Exploring the lived experiences of Senior High School students with solo parents in Laguna
No full textSolo parenting poses significant challenges for both parents and children, especially those in the adolescence stage, which is a crucial period in heightening the development of social, emotional, and coping skills. This research project aims to understand the nuances and various experiences of senior high school students in Laguna who are part of solo parent families. This includes how it affects their well-being, social relationships, and goals and aspirations in life. The researchers used a purposive type of sampling to gather participants for an in-depth interview that will be then utilized through a thematic analysis after the data gathering process. The findings show that the experiences of these individuals are influenced by a range of emotional and relational factors. Participants reflected on the presence of emotional support and connection, the weight of parental absence and its emotional impact, and how conflicts were managed within their relationships. Communication, whether open or strained, played a role in shaping their social relationships. Family dynamics also took on new forms, when siblings and extended relatives stepped in, as roles shifted within. They also shared how their situation encouraged personal growth, with many finding strength and motivation in the responsibilities they took on. Rather than internalizing shame, participants expressed a sense of purpose and optimism, sharing goals of breaking generational patterns and embracing their realities while aiming to redefine what family and future could look like. Conducting a study that includes participants who have solo parents by choice can uncover various aspects from the previously mentioned factors in this study. A wider scope of participants is also recommended so that more data will be able to present themes that may occur during data analysis procedure
Assessing phytoplankton diversity in Lake Calibato, San Pablo City, Laguna, Philippines
No full textLake Calibato, one of the lesser-studied lakes among the Seven Lakes of San Pablo City, plays a vital ecological role in supporting phytoplankton communities. However, its increasing aquaculture activities have raised concerns about its ecological health. This study aimed to assess the lake’s water quality and phytoplankton diversity during the hot dry season (March to May 2024) based on samples collected from four stations at two depths. Water quality was assessed by analyzing physicochemical parameters, including depth, Secchi disk transparency (SDT), total suspended solids (TSS), turbidity, biological oxygen demand (BOD), phosphate, ammonium, Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), dissolved oxygen (DO), conductivity, pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), and salinity, using both in-situ and ex-situ approaches. Phytoplankton diversity was assessed using Dominance (Di), Shannon (H’), and Evenness (eH’/S). Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) was used to explore relationships between water quality parameters and phytoplankton groups. The findings indicate that most physicochemical parameters fall within desirable limits, with notable exceptions in SDT (1.00 m), low DO (2.11 mg/L), and elevated pH (9.19), suggesting environmental stress. A total of 36 phytoplankton taxa were identified across six phyla, including Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta, Cyanophyta, Dinophyta, Euglenophyta, and eukaryotic protists. Diversity indices showed Cyanophyta dominance, especially in May (H’ = 0.1656), highlighting its role in ecological balance and water quality. CCA revealed that cyanobacteria correlated strongly with temperature, while diatoms were associated with salinity, TDS, ammonium, and nitrate. The results highlight the sensitivity of phytoplankton communities to intra-seasonal and depth-related water quality variations. This underscores the need for integrated lake management strategies to mitigate anthropogenic impacts and preserve Lake Calibato’s ecological integrity and biodiversity
Capstone internship at the Samsung Research Philippines with a mini-study on : optimizing traffic flow : enhancing time allocations of a traffic light systems in an intersection in San Pablo City using gradient descent algorithm
No full textTraffic congestion in San Pablo City, particularly along intersections on Maharlika Highway, has worsened due to the rapid urbanization and population growth. Inefficient traffic signal timings have led to longer travel times, increased accident risks, and reduced economic productivity. While various efforts have been made to improve traffic flow, there is still a limited number of studies which explore the potential of an algorithmic solution that is suitable for local conditions. This research applies Gradient Descent Algorithm to optimize green light time allocations in the selected intersection to improve traffic flow. By using actual traffic data and simulation modeling, signal timings were iteratively adjusted to minimize the average travel time of vehicles passing through the intersection. The results from the simulation revealed a measurable improvement in traffic movement, with optimized configurations significantly reducing average travel time per vehicle. These improvements demonstrate the potential of data-driven traffic control systems in mitigating traffic congestion. The study also contributes to valuable insight into the practical application of mathematical optimization in urban traffic management. Its findings may serve as a reference for the local government units seeking efficiency and sustainable transport strategies
11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities
No full text11 - Sustainable Cities and Communitieshttps://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/un-sdgs_images/1010/thumbnail.jp
A Co-Design Approach to Integrating Gender into the Cacao Value Chain in Davao City, Philippines
No full textThe specific needs and challenges of women and their contributions are often not integrated when developing interventions and policies targeted to improve agricultural value chains. Therefore, this study developed a codesign approach to creating solutions to improve gender relations in agri-food value chains. Specifically, it focused on the cacao value chain in Davao City, which is located in the southern Philippines. Co-design is a highly participatory approach in which solutions are designed with, and not just for, the people who have lived experiences of the problems being addressed. The approach emphasizes understanding gender-related barriers and opportunities to inform government interventions that improve value chain efficiency and ensure equitable distribution of benefits. The co-design framework and protocol were developed and tested with 22 men and 20 women from farmer group associations, local and regional government offices, industry leaders, major cacao processors, and the academe in Davao City, Philippines, in 2022. The pilot testing resulted in recommendations and policy implications for improving gender equality, thereby demonstrating the applicability of the co-design approach in developing gender-sensitive solutions. These include creating a culturally sensitive ecosystem, providing incentives for gender-responsive and inclusive businesses, prioritizing gender-sensitive research and development projects, and promoting social labelling, certification, and products produced by women. While its impact on gender responsiveness is yet to be fully determined, the co-design framework developed from this study is a promising step toward providing a structured approach to integrating gender perspectives into agricultural value chain development, ensuring that future interventions are both inclusive and sustainable
Effects of the Alternative Work Arrangement Under the New Normal on the Performance of DEPED Non-Teaching Personnel
No full textThe imposition of strict quarantine restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in the implementation of alternative work arrangement in the form of a combination of work from home and traditional face-to-face work. The study seeks to address the effect of alternative work arrangement on employees’ work performance and job satisfaction. The study also identifies the moderating effect of sociodemographic factors on the relationship between job satisfaction and work performance. A total of 82 non-teaching personnel of DepEd Calamba, who are having the 3-day onsite work and 2-day work from home weekly work schedule, serve as respondents in the study. Work performance is measured through the individual performance ratings of employees (before and during the pandemic) and the 17-item survey questionnaire on work performance. Job satisfaction is measured through the 48-item survey questionnaire, which consists of the following: policies, supervision, salary, interpersonal relationships, working conditions, work itself, achievement, recognition, responsibility, and advancement. The sociodemographic factors of sex, age, level of education, number of years working, and work position act as moderating variables of the study. Results show that the majority of the respondents have very satisfactory work performance ratings before and during the COVID-19 pandemic as reflected in their individual work performance ratings in 2019 and 2020. With regard to work performance and job satisfaction questionnaires, the majority of the respondents both show high levels of work performance and job satisfaction. Correlation analysis reveals that increased levels of work performance result in heightened levels of job satisfaction pertaining to salary, interpersonal relationships, achievement, and responsibility. In terms of sociodemographic factors, results reveal that employees who have completed post-graduate degrees tend to exert more time and effort in performing their work. However, older employees seem to care less in improving their work performance and show less participation in work meetings. In addition, older employees tend to show less appreciation on job satisfaction concerning Policies, Supervision, Achievement, and Responsibility. Overall, alternative work arrangement implemented by DepEd Calamba does not seem to affect both work performance and job satisfaction of its employees. As a result, the majority of the employees prefer to continue the current alternative work arrangement. Even though most of the employees show high levels of work performance and job satisfaction as a result of alternative work arrangement, it is recommended to periodically assess employees’ work performance and job satisfaction in its second or third year of implementation. In terms of the moderating effect of sociodemographic factors, the positive effect of job satisfaction on work performance are among employees aged 36-41, those who have completed post-graduate education, and those who have been working for 6-10 years. It is recommended that employees should be encouraged to pursue post-graduate degrees as the level of education seems to show a positive effect of job satisfaction on work performance
Analyzing the vegetable supply chain efficiencies and post-harvest losses in Sambat Bagsakan Center of Tanauan City
No full textVegetables, as high-value crops, are vital to food and nutrition security in the Philippines. However, substantial postharvest losses (PHLs) persist, especially in localized and informal markets such as bagsakan centers. This study focused on the vegetable trading activities at the Bagsakan Center in Barangay Sambat, Tanauan City, Batangas. It aimed to map the supply chains of bitter gourd (ampalaya), eggplant (talong), and string beans (sitaw), and identify inefficiencies—particularly the critical points where losses most frequently occur.
It involved 46 stakeholders, including nineteen (19) farmers, five (5) assembler- wholesalers/transporters, thirteen (13) wholesalers, four (4) wholesaler-retailers, and five (5) retailers, operating in four barangays—Bilog-bilog, Cale, Santol, and Malaking Pulo— and the bagsakan center. Eight (8) distinct sub-chains were identified, varying in composition, origin, and efficiency. All used cash-based transactions, with pricing influenced by locality and player behavior. Though operational practices were generally uniform within each actor group, the sub-chains showed considerable differences in number of players involved, volume handled, PHLs, and transport costs.
Among the eight (8) sub-chains identified, sub-chain 6 garnered a low loss rate (1.00%) and cheapest transport cost (₱1.02/kg), owing to its short, streamlined flow. In contrast, sub-chain 1 accumulated the highest losses (26.75%) and longer player involvement. Sub-chain 2 also showed notable losses (3.62%) and the most expensive transport cost (₱6.67/kg). Locally, sub-chain 7 recorded the lowest losses (0.62%), while sub-chain 8 had the highest (9.79%). However, focusing solely on chain length or volume proved insufficient: the most efficient sub-chains were not necessarily the shortest or smallest, but rather those that exhibited tight coordination, timely movement, and minimal handling throughout the process, leading to a considerable low percentage of loss, despite handling larger volumes and involving many players.
Losses were most prevalent during transport and retail stages, particularly in sub- chains 1 and 8, both exceeding the FAO’s 2% benchmark for critical loss thresholds. Economic losses did not always match physical loss rates, as factors like price depending on the stage the loss was incurred and volume influenced outcomes. Sub-chain 2 had the highest economic loss (₱3,617), followed by sub-chains 1 (₱2,990) and 4 (₱2,670).
These sub-chains, affected by inefficiencies, directly impacted business performance. Key issues included poor transportation infrastructure, overloading, excessive stacking, lack of proper containers, and minimal postharvest management. Uncovered stalls and the congested layout of the bagsakan further contributed to losses, especially under adverse weather conditions. Although coordination among same-level players was observed, major gaps in technology adoption and loss prevention strategies remained.
With these findings, several recommendations were proposed. For farmers, adopting better harvesting, sorting, and grading practices and using low-cost tools like plastic crates and grading tables is essential. Trainings from the City Agriculturist Office and digital tools like the FAO Food Loss App (FLAPP) are also encouraged. Transporters should shift to enclosed, ventilated vehicles and follow standard handling procedures. Traders should invest in sanitary sorting areas, basic mechanized tools, and training in quality control and packaging. Local government units (LGUs) are urged to improve infrastructure and collaborate with national agencies for support. To make value chain players more conscious of the consequences of postharvest inefficiencies, the opportunity costs—or the income they would have otherwise earned if losses had been avoided—were presented alongside the recommendations. Lastly, future studies may explore cost-benefit analyses of postharvest technologies, consumer demand dynamics, and digital tools for coordination and pricing, and replicate the study in other areas or crops.
Overall, the findings emphasize the need for integrated interventions—spanning infrastructure, technology, policy, and coordination—to build a more efficient, resilient, and loss-minimized vegetable supply chain in Tanauan City and similar localities