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Awareness, Knowledge, and Perceptions on Water Conservation and their Relationship to Residential Water Use in Los Baños, Laguna, 2024
No full textThis study analyzed household-level awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of water conservation and their relationship with residential water use in Los Baños, Laguna. Specifically, it described the residential water use of households in Los Baños, Laguna by determining their household profile, water end-uses, and average monthly water consumption and billing. The study assessed the awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of household heads regarding water conservation and examined their relationship with residential water use. Recommendations were based on primary data, descriptive analysis, multiple regression analysis, and correlation analysis. Data were collected from 68 households, analyzing their water consumption patterns, household profiles, water end-uses, and conservation practices. Using descriptive analysis, key findings indicate a typical household size of four, with significant portions of water used for laundry (31%) and personal hygiene (25%). The average water consumption was 29 cubic meters per month, with higher-income households consuming more water. All households employed at least one water-conserving appliance or strategy, primarily using the pail-and-dipper method for showering. The assessment of household awareness on water conservation revealed that 65% are aware of the concept and importance of water conservation and about 26% remain neutral. From the knowledge assessment, it was concluded that household heads with good and fair knowledge on water conservation are both 31% of the respondents, which indicates that the majority of the household heads either have a good grasp of the concept and likely understand its importance or had a basic knowledge of water conservation but had limited knowledge of specific conservation strategies. Although there is generally a positive perception towards water conservation, household heads are neutral with regards to incorporating water conservation practices into their daily routine as well as in the assessment of support or resources available to help them conserve water effectively. Awareness and perception on water conservation showed little to no correlation with residential water use, while knowledge on water conservation had a moderate positive correlation. The study concludes that while there is a general awareness and positive perception of water conservation among households in Los Baños, Laguna, there is a need for increased educational efforts and targeted initiatives to enhance specific knowledge and overcome implementation barriers. Crosstabulation further revealed that households with higher incomes tend to have greater knowledge on water conservation. However, residential water use patterns show that higher-income households tend to consume more water. Despite the high awareness and perception of the importance of water conservation, practical implementation remains inconsistent, highlighting the necessity for further support and resources to facilitate the integration of conservation practices into daily routines. The findings underscore the importance of addressing economic disparities in water consumption and promoting sustainable water management practices to achieve broader conservation goals in the municipality
Digital Marketing of Pork Cuts in Bulacan, 2023
No full textThe general objective of the study was to describe the digital marketing of pork cuts in selected cities of Bulacan. The specific objectives were to (1) describe the marketing practices of online traders of pork cuts, (2) identify the cost structure of the digital marketing of pork cuts, (3) identify the issues and challenges encountered by online vendors of pork cuts, and (4) draw possible recommendations to these problems. A total of 31 respondents were interviewed – 5 backyard hog raisers from two municipalities and 13 hog traders and another 5 consumers. The hog raisers were identified through voluntary response method. The traders were identified through convenience sampling method and voluntary response method. The traders identified were assembler-wholesalers, wholesaler-retailers, and retailers. The marketing services provided by hog raisers identified were pre-selling, loading and unloading, slaughtering, butchering, transporting, and storage. Meanwhile, for traders, marketing services identified were pre-selling, procurement, transporting, butchering, and storage. Compared to traditional marketing pork traders, online traders of pork cuts performed different marketing services. Online traders operated from home, and procured pre-cut pork from various importers and distributors, eliminating the need for slaughtering. Despite these operational differences, the structure of their marketing chain and the functions of market participants aligned with those of traditional traders. The advantages of online trading included a wider reach across municipalities, instant buyer responses, and readily accessible market information. These benefits contributed to higher profits and immediate disposal of pork cuts, enhancing the efficiency of the online pork trading business. However, it is important to note that majority of online traders do not have the necessary permit to run their business. In terms of marketing costs, digital marketing, necessitates costs for internet and higher electricity bills. Digital traders did not have expenses such as slaughter, market fees, and business permits. They spent less on labor, often employing themselves or family members at lower rates. Their expenses were more on transportation, electricity, and maintenance. This was due to their reliance on transportation services, personal vehicles requiring regular maintenance, and the use of cellphones, internet, and freezers, which increased electricity costs. While both marketing types incur non-cash costs, digital traders faced higher depreciation costs, possibly due to more investment in vehicles and equipment with shorter lifespans. The problems encountered by hog raisers were fluctuating price of pork cuts, difficulty in finding buyers, and storage issues. Similarly, pork cut traders stated that they mainly encounter problems such as fluctuating price and difficulty in finding quality customers. With the interaction being only made online, problems with information asymmetry exists. Hence, it was recommended to push efforts in creating or further spreading information campaigns about the dangers of transacting and buying meats online
Scaling from Niche to Mass: Understanding Consumer, Non-consumer, and producer perspectives on Tilapia Ice Cream in the City of Muñoz. Nueva Ecija
No full textThe study investigated the alignment between consumer and non-consumer perceptions on Daerrys Tilapia Ice Cream with the intended marketing mix employed by its producer through the 7Ps marketing framework. Specifically, the research aimed to (1) describe the socio-demographic profile of the consumers and non-consumers of Daerrys Tilapia Ice Cream in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, (2) present the company profile of Daerrys, (3) identify the current marketing mix implemented by Daerrys, (4) determine the current perceptions and purchase intentions on Daerrys Tilapia Ice Cream among consumers and non-consumers, (5) assess whether there is a difference between the intended marketing mix of its producer and the actual perception of consumers and non-consumers, (6) identify which dimensions of the 7Ps framework must be prioritized by Daerrys to maintain or heighten purchase intention of consumers and non-consumers, and (7) develop recommendations for alignment within the marketing mix to improve purchase intention among consumers and non-consumers.
The research employed a mixed method research design. Consumer and non- consumer characteristics were described to identify perception and purchase intention using a cross-sectional survey questionnaire. Meanwhile, the company was profiled to identify their marketing mix through a key informant interview (KII). 232 qualified respondents were selected using a convenience sampling technique where 56% were consumers and 44% consisted of non-consumers. To achieve the objectives of this study, the quantitative data collected were subjected to descriptive statistical methods through cross-tabulation with counts, frequencies, and percentages. The computation of means and standard deviations were also used to check the alignment between company vs. consumer and non-consumer perceptions across the marketing mix. Mann-Whitney U Test Statistic was used to determine differences between consumer and non-consumer perceptions, while Modified Kruskal Drivers Analysis (KDA) was used to identify which among the Ps have the biggest impact on purchase intention.
Both consumer and non-consumer respondents exhibited similar socio- demographic profiles, predominantly comprising single, undergraduate students aged 18-25 with monthly allowances of ₱10,000 or less. While consumer respondents skewed female, non-consumers showed a more balanced gender distribution. Most respondents are located in Bantug and reside alone, suggesting they are likely students with temporary living arrangements. They typically come from small to medium-sized families, averaging a household size of 4. Additionally, the majority exhibit balanced levels of health consciousness, with no notable allergy concerns.
Results show that alignment between company and consumer perceptions was generally strong across the 7Ps, except for Promotion. For non-consumer, discrepancies were observed in Product, Price, and Promotion. Concerns revolved around product quality, high pricing, and ineffective promotions. Gaps between consumer and non- consumer perception were observed across all dimensions of the 7Ps.
Key purchase intention drivers for consumers were Promotion, Physical evidence, People and Price. Meanwhile, loyalty intention among consumers is driven by Product attributes. For non-consumers, Product, Place, Price, and Physical Evidence drive purchase intention. These drivers were used to inform alignment across the 7Ps, along with identified customer behavior and preferences.
Looking at specific attributes, discrepancies occur in Product, Price, and Promotion dimensions for both consumer and non-consumer suggesting systemic misalignment across these dimensions. As such, strategic advertising campaigns and influencer marketing are needed to generate positive word-of-mouth. Expanding distribution to high-traffic retail outlets are also crucial to heighten brand visibility and accessibility. Affordability concerns can be addressed through product development efforts to extend their product range to include affordable options. Taste and quality, along with flavor variety, were identified as the primary purchase motivators for consumers, while non-consumers were motivated by curiosity on taste-related attributes. Hence, it is crucial to conduct sensory analysis and continuous product development efforts to capitalize on these opportunities. Overall, positive perceptions are observed across the 7Ps but socio-demographic factors are indispensable in influencing purchase intentions. Hence, market segmentation is crucial to direct marketing efforts. Recommendations centered on targeted marketing strategies tailored to pescatarians, curious young adults, health-conscious families, and ethically-conscious consumers. Hence, marketing mix recommendations were formulated to amplify purchase intent among these identified segments focusing on strategies in terms of Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People, Process, and Physical Evidence
Regional welfare effects of the 2019 rice tariffication law among rice consumers and rice producers in the Philippines, 2023
No full textThe importance of the Philippine rice industry cannot be overemphasized. It is the main staple food of Filipinos and provides employment and livelihood opportunities to the whole country. A landmark legislation in 2019 called the Rice Tariffication Law marked a policy shift in rice trade policy from combined quantitative restriction and tariffs to full tariffication without import limitation. This study aimed to evaluate the welfare effects of the Rice Tariffication Law on the rice industry at the regional island grouping and national level. The three regional island groups, namely, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, were selected for the study. Data on rice production, rice demand, imports, net supply, and self-sufficiency rate were collected and analyzed from 2014 to 2022. The results showed that there was an increasing trend on domestic rice supply, rice demand, rice imports, and deficits on rice net supply, and a decreasing trend on the rice self-sufficiency rate. These findings were consistent across the regional island groupings and on the national level. Using a partial equilibrium analysis, the policy simulations conducted in this study, included both conversion of quantitative restrictions to tariffs and the elimination of tariffs on rice. Results showed that both scenarios are beneficial to rice consumers, while rice producers are worse off. The government benefitted from the policy shift of conversion from quantitative restriction to tariffs, since this entailed that the government could collect revenue from tariffs and invest back to rice farmers in the form of rice-related government programs. An overall net gain or improvement of the Philippine rice industry was recorded on both scenarios, across regional island groups and on a national level. Based on the results of the study, it is therefore recommended to: (1) improve rice production in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, (2) promote programs and policies to slowdown the increasing rice demand, (3) incorporate regional-level impacts of RTL to future impact evaluation activities, (4) target a 70-80 percent rice self-sufficiency rather than a 100 percent self-sufficiency in rice, and (5) lower the tariff rates of non-ASEAN countries to explore other sources of rice imports
Economic Analysis of Adoption of Conservation Agriculture Practices among Maize Farming Households in the Northwest Region, Vietnam
No full textThis study analyzes the economics of adoption of conservation agriculture (CA) practices in the Northwest region. Socioeconomic characteristics of maize farming households and the current situation of adopting CA practices in the Northwest region are described. The results indicated that the adoption rate of CA practices in the Northwest region of Vietnam increased over the period of time. The motivation and constraint of adoption of CA practices were identified. Impacts of psychological factors on the intentions of farmers to adopt CA practices were investigated by using structural equation modelling (SEM). The findings suggested that farmers’ intention to adopt CA practices depends on the five socio-psychological components of extended theory of planned behavior: Attitude, Subjective norm, Perceived behavioral control, Knowledge and Perceived severity. Knowledge was the most significant variable in controlling intention, while attitude and PBC also played a crucial role in intention. Factors influencing the actual adoption and intensity of CA practices were examined using multivariate probit model and ordered probit model. The results revealed that the probability and extent of adoption of CA practices are influenced by several factors: education of household head, farmers’ intention, credit access, training on CA practices, distance to cooperative, contact extension agent and member of farmers’ groups. The impacts of CA practices adoption on maize yields and maize income were examined. The multinomial endogenous switching regression model was employed to correct for selection bias and endogeneity that emanates from both observed and unobserved heterogeneity. The results found that CA practices have positive effects on maize yield and maize income. The effects of CA practices on the outcome variables are higher when CA practices are adopted in combinations than in isolation. The study recommended the following to increase the adoption of CA practices: (1) Conduct the training courses on the CA practices for the farmers and communities, (2) Promote peer learning, and (3) Strengthening local institutions
An analysis of the availability and nutritional quality of frozen processed plant-based meat alternatives in the hypermarket and supermarkets of Santa Rosa, Laguna
No full textProcessed meats are associated with an increased risk of developing noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer due to their poor nutritional quality. Plant-based meat alternatives were sold to replace the perceived “unhealthy” meat products despite still being considered processed foods. This research aims to analyze the availability of frozen processed plant-based meat alternatives (FPPBMAs) in the hypermarket and supermarkets of Santa Rosa, Laguna, and their nutritional quality. The study revealed that 40 FPPBMAs were available in Santa Rosa, Laguna with soy and wheat as the most common protein sources, eight (8) of which did not follow the guidelines for nutrition claims. Most FPPBMAs have medium energy, fat, and sodium but low saturated fat and sugars. Among burger patty, nuggets, tapa, and tocino, the FPPBMAs generally had lower cholesterol and higher fiber but similar in energy, fat, saturated fat, carbohydrates, sugars, and sodium compared to their meat alternatives. The average energy, fat, and sugar classifications of the FPPBMAs were the same as their meat counterparts, but their saturated fat and sodium classifications were better. Overall, various FPPBMAs are available across Santa Rosa, Laguna that provide some nutritional advantages over their meat counterparts, but some nutritional qualities are similar
Evaluation of the Adulticiudal Efficacy of Multi-Active Inmsecticide (Cypermethrin + Tetramethrin + PBO) on Housefly (Musca domestica)
No full textEffective chemical control of housefly (Musca domestica) infestations is imperative in light of mounting pest management challenges, e.g., insecticide resistance and residue accumulation, accompanying the growth of the local poultry industry. Thus, bioefficacy testing, particularly for formulations with adjusted concentrations or synergist additions, becomes vital to guarantee safety, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability while providing information into local pest resistance and susceptibility patterns. The present study evaluated the adulticidal efficacy of cypermethin 12% + tetramethin 4% + piperonyl butoxide 16% against M. domestica under field conditions. The assay was conducted by administering the multi-active insecticide on adult housefly populations at dosage rates of 1 mL mixture per 120 mL distilled water (dH≥O) (0.83% v/v) and 1 mL mixture per 70 mL dH≥ (1.41% v/v) and application rates of 50 mL/m2 and 100 mL/m2. Mean and rate of mortality were recorded at specific time marks over the 180-minute duration of the experiment, with each treatment having five replicates. Results showed a dose-dependent relationship between the insecticide and the test organism, showing increased mortality in groups treated with higher insecticide concentration and optimal efficacy at a dosage of 1:70 and application rate of 100 mL/m2. Moreover, half-rate application (50 mL/m2) at the same dosage produced comparable mortality, indicating its potential as an economical alternative to the full-rate application especially in non-production settings. Future research may explore evaluating the knockdown effect of this mixture against houseflies while laboratory assessments could validate the study\u27s findings in a more controlled environment
Acute Dermal Toxicity Test of Plasma Assited Chitosan-Acrylic Acid Hydrogel Dressing in Rabbits
No full textAn acute dermal toxicity test was conducted following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Guideline 404 for the new locally produced plasma-treated chitosan acrylic acid (Cs-AA) hydrogel dressing using New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits. The plasma-treated Cs-AA hydrogel and control dressing was applied on the right and left shaved dorsum of each rabbit, respectively and occluded with sterile gauze and non-irritating medical tape for 24 hours. Cage side observations for skin abnormalities like erythema and edema, and systemic signs of toxicity, morbidity, and mortality were done for 14 days. Then, the rabbits were anesthetized, and an elliptical skin biopsy was performed for histopathologic examination. The results show that application of plasma-treated Cs-AA hydrogel dressing did not elicit skin reactions like erythema, and edema in rabbits. No overt signs of toxicity like salivation, diarrhea, tremors, lethargy cardiopulmonary depression, neurologic abnormalities, or behavioral changes were observed. Feed and water intake, body weight, and body weight gain were not affected. Histopathologic examination revealed comparable normal appearance and histologic features of skin of treated control dressing and plasma-treated Cs-AA hydrogel dressing. There were no signs of epidermal or dermal thickness, erythema, edema, inflammatory cell infiltration, acanthosis, and hyalinization. These findings suggest that the plasma-treated Cs-AA hydrogel dressing is non-toxic and safe as a potential topical biomedical product for wound management in animals and humans
Analysis of Fresh Meat Demand in the Philippines Using Quadratic Almost Ideal Demand System, 2018-2021
No full textFilipinos are known for their high meat consumption, with meat being a crucial source of protein and essential nutrients. Building on the analysis of Malabayabas (2008), which provided foundational insights into meat demand patterns, this research aimed to revisit and update the understanding of Filipino meat consumption, particularly noting the recent shift from pork to chicken. Using the Family and Income Expenditure Survey (FIES) datasets, the study described historical trends, identified socio-economic and demographic influences, estimated the partial effects of various factors on meat demand, and forecasted future consumption for 2025-2029 using the Quadratic Almost Ideal Demand System (QUAIDS) model. QUAIDS, an extension of the Almost Ideal Demand System (AIDS), allows for a more flexible representation of consumer preferences, addressing the limitations of linear models. This model is essential for effectively analyzing the interdependence and substitution effects among pork, chicken, and beef, capturing dynamic price movements and consumption patterns, and providing critical insights for economists, meat producers, sellers, and government agencies. Key findings indicated that while pork has historically been the most consumed meat, chicken consumption has risen significantly due to its affordability, with beef remaining the least consumed. Consumption patterns vary by region, influenced by income levels, family size, urban-rural classification, and meat prices. Notable regional variations exist, with chicken surpassing pork in Luzon, pork remaining dominant in the Visayas, and chicken being more popular than pork in Mindanao due to cultural preferences. The study highlights the significant impact of price increases, particularly the spike in pork prices due to ASF outbreaks, on consumption behaviors. Using secondary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) through FIES and OpenSTAT for 2018 and 2021, the study confirms that fresh meat demand is generally elastic, with variations between major islands. Moreover, Luzon considers chicken and beef as substitute to pork, meanwhile, Visayas and Mindanao consider it as complements. With expenditure elasticities, it shows that pork, chicken, and beef are all normal goods, however, its determination if a luxury or necessity shows that it is overall close to being a luxury as values are either greater than one or closer to one such as 0.8 or 0.9, which signifies high prices of meat. The QUAIDS model effectively captures the substitution effects between pork, chicken, and beef, providing a detailed understanding of consumer behavior over the years. Projected demand suggests that chicken will experience the highest growth, particularly in Luzon, while pork will continue to lead in the Visayas and Mindanao. Recommendations include targeted regional pricing strategies for meat producers, government interventions to reduce production and marketing costs, and further research into regional meat consumption patterns to inform policy and industry strategies. These actions aim to enhance market efficiency, stabilize prices, and ensure a steady supply of affordable meat, supporting both economic growth and consumer well-being
Systematic review and meta-analysis on the prevalence of campylobacter in poultry in Asia
No full textBackground: This meta-analysis study summarized the available information on the prevalence of thermotolerant Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli among poultry products in Asia; Methods: Exhaustive literature search was conducted and 30 studies were included. A number of multilevel random-effect meta-analysis models were used to calculate their pooled prevalence and compare each Asian regions; Results: The pooled prevalence for C.jejuni was 34%. On a separate meta-analysis for East Asia (EA), Middle East (ME) and South Asia (SA) and Southeast Asia (SEA), the pooled prevalences for C. jejuni were 33%, 37% and 33%, respectively. Moreover, results showed that there was significant heterogeneity and no significant publication bias. Conversely, the pooled prevalence for C. coli was 13%. On separate analysis by region, the pooled prevalences for EA, ME, and SEA were 10%, 18% and 12.08%, respectively. Significant heterogeneity was observed and there was no publication bias detected in the EA and the SEA; Conclusions: Overall, the high incidence of both C. jejuni and C. coli infections across Asia highlight the public health importance of these pathogens. Moreover, the meta-analysis of C. jejuni and C. coli prevalence across Asia gives crucial insights into the public health concerns connected with these pathogens