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Rebranding UPLB: Assessing the Effects of the Unified Visual Identity Among UPLB Products
No full textThe study evaluates the effects of the UPLB Technology Transfer and Business Development Office\u27s (TTBDO) rebranding initiative to unify the packaging of existing UPLB products under a unified visual identity. Through a comprehensive evaluation, the researcher sought to understand how this rebranding effort affected the brand equity of UPLB across four dimensions, its brand personality, and respondent’s purchase intent.
To achieve this, the researcher employed a mixed research design integrating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Quantitative data was collected through surveys utilizing Likert scales to gauge respondent agreement with structured statements surrounding the rebranded products. Meanwhile, qualitative insights were captured through open-ended questions, allowing for a deeper understanding of consumer responses and perceptions.
The study primarily focused on individuals who attended the inaugural launch event or visited the UPLB Technology Hub and One-Stop Shop (THOSS), where the rebranded products were showcased. Through purposive random sampling, 171 participants were selected, primarily comprising female young adults, with a monthly income below a P10,957. Only a few had no connections to UP, while the majority resided in Los Baños, close to the study areas.
Overall analysis showed a positive reception towards the rebranding initiative, with consumers perceiving enhanced product quality and brand distinctiveness. The consistent application of branding elements played a vital role in reinforcing brand identity, fostering consumer trust, and encouraging brand loyalty. However, concerns regarding affordability arose due to the paradox brought about by the premium appeal of the packaging, emphasizing the importance of balancing product improvements with pricing strategies to address consumer needs.
Furthermore, in term of brand personality, the unified branding embodied traits of femininity, inspiration, and warmth, aligning well with the Creator and the Caregiver archetypes. Notably, the persona of Maria Makiling emerged as a symbolic representation of the university\u27s identity, resonating with consumers and reinforcing the values and objectives of the institution.
Based on these findings, the study proposes several recommendations for the University of the Philippines to maximize the impact of its rebranding efforts. These include embracing the rebranding initiative holistically, ensuring consistent communication across all channels, providing branding trainings to stakeholders, increasing product visibility within the university premises, and embodying the persona of Maria Makiling to strengthen brand identity.
Going forward, the study suggests avenues for future research, including periodic brand health tracking, exploring perspectives from institutional partners, conducting in- depth case studies for individual products, and quantifying brand value through valuation methods. These initiatives offer opportunities for continuous improvement and optimization of branding strategies to sustain and enhance UPLB\u27s brand equity in the long term
Molecular Detection of African Swine Fever Virus in Raw Meat and Processed Pork Products from Selected Wet Markets in Samar and Leyte, Philippines
No full textBackground: African swine fever (ASF) remains a significant threat to the Philippine swine industry. With the absence of a vaccine and specific treatment, the primary means of control and eradication are early diagnosis, stringent biosecurity measures, and depopulation of the infected population. Currently, the Philippines relies on the detection of viral nucleic acids in blood samples for ASF surveillance. However, due to the virus\u27 persistence, particularly in raw meat and pork products, it is essential to explore alternative surveillance methods. Methods: A total of 35 samples from Samar and 30 samples from Leyte of raw meat and processed pork products were analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to identify the presence of African Swine Fever Virus (ASFv) nucleic acids. Results: PCR revealed that there were no ASFv-positive samples found in Samar. In Leyte, the overall positivity rate was 26.67% for raw meat and 20% for processed pork products. Conclusion: The positivity of samples in Leyte indicates potential contamination of raw and processed pork products, making the production and supply chain susceptible to possible transmission of the virus. A review on critical control points from the farm level to the marketplace should be considered Keywords: African swine fever, control strategies, epidemiology, persistence, pork product
Impacts of Joy of Urban Farming Program on Income Level and Food Consumption among its Beneficiaries in Bagong Silangan, Quezon City
No full textOne of the interventions being implemented to improve human health and nutrition in the urban fringe of Quezon City, Philippines is the “Joy of Urban Farming” program. One of its components is the New Greenland Community Model Farm (NGCMF) which aims to provide livelihood and alleviate hunger in the area.
This study was conducted in Bagong Silangan, Quezon City to know the effects of the model farm on the income level and food consumption of the urban farmer- beneficiaries. Constrained by the unavailability of farmer-respondents during the survey, the sample size was limited to 31 respondents.
Paired sample t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Fisher’s Z transformation were employed to satisfy the objectives of the study. The analyses were aided by the use of the quantifiable variables present in the Food Consumption Score Nutritional Quality Analysis (FCS-NQA). This was done to examine the food consumption levels of the households and assess their implications on nutrition.
Based on the analyses, the study found that the income level of households showed no significant difference before and after joining the program. This is because of the very small contribution of their income from urban farming to total household income, ranging from PhP 300 to PhP 500 per month from June to November and PhP 1,000 to PhP 2,000 per month from December to May. This relatively low income was heavily affected by the crops they cultivated. Meanwhile, an increase in vitamin A intake after joining the program was observed due to the increasing consumption of vegetables that were produced in the farm. The NGCMF provided in-kind giveaways that boosted in some ways the household consumption. However, the overall food consumption score showed no significant improvement after joining the program. Based on the FCS-NQA, the consumption of meat, fish, eggs, and fruits did not improve after joining the program. Furthermore, their real household income showed no significant relationship with their food consumption. Even if income of the beneficiaries from NGCMF did not increase much, the opportunity to bring home giveaways from the farm has reinforced the availability of food for consumption.
To improve the effectiveness of the program particularly with respect to income generation and nutrition improvement, proper identification of crops, calendaring of planting periods and regular record keeping are recommended. It is also recommended to build climate-proof facilities to further mitigate the effects of natural disasters in the flooded areas of the farm. Higher farm productivity would translate not only in terms of more income but at the same time more giveaways that would bridge more consumption of nutritious foods
A Regional Analysis of the Vulnerability to Income Poverty of Households in the Philippines
No full textThis study examined the vulnerability to income poverty of households in highly urbanized cities (HUCs), non-HUC urban areas, and rural areas in the Philippines. Using cross-sectional data, the research estimated the expected per capita income of households in order to quantify their vulnerability to income poverty. It also showed how household characteristics differ in their effects on per capita income across the three regions.
At the national level, slightly over half of the households were found to be vulnerable to poverty. Of this, nearly four in ten households were estimated to highly vulnerable. The poor population had a greater incidence of severe vulnerability compared to non-poor households, underscoring the chronic nature of poverty. High vulnerability to income poverty was also more prevalent in rural households.
The impacts of household variables on vulnerability to poverty also differed across the three regions. This was shown by the differences in the regional effects of variables like number of employed members, proportion of dependents, and price increases on vulnerability
Spatial Market Integration of Red Creole Onion in Regional Wholesale and Retail Markets in the Philippines, 2012-2023
No full textThis study examined the spatial market integration of red creole onion in regional wholesale and retail marketsin the Philippines. It provided an overview of the onion market industry, described regional price behaviors at both wholesale and retail levels, determined cointegration among these markets, identified price leaders, determined the speed of adjustments of the price leaders and examined policy implications for the red creole onion industry. Secondary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) were used for monthly wholesale and retail prices from 2012 to 2023. Prices were adjusted to real terms using the 2012 Wholesale Price Index (WPI) and 2012 Consumer Price Index (CPI). Analytical methods included descriptive statistics, price decomposition using multiplicative model, Augmented-Dickey Fuller Test for stationarity, Engle-Granger Cointegration Test, Granger Causality, and Error Correction Model.
The analysis revealed that the real wholesale and retail prices of red creole onion generally increased over time, with seasonal fluctuations and spikes due to external shocks. Prices were higher during the off-seasons of November to January, and lower during the peak season from March to July. The Augmented-Dickey Fuller Test confirmed the stationarity of price series, and the Engle-Granger Cointegration Test indicated that all wholesale markets and most retail markets, except for Western Visayas and ARMM, were cointegrated, showing a long-term equilibrium relationship.
Granger Causality tests indicated that most markets had a bi-directional relationship, showing mutual influence and predictive power. Specifically, 76% of paired wholesale markets and 59% of paired retail markets exhibited thisrelationship. Also, Ilocos Region was identified as the primary price leader in wholesale markets, while high consumption regions like Cagayan Valley and SOCCSKSARGEN acted as price leaders in retail markets. Meanwhile, some markets exhibited independent relationships, particularly ARMM in both wholesale and retail markets.
The Error Correction Model assessed the speed of price adjustments to equilibrium for the market price leaders, revealing that wholesale markets adjust within 1.2 to 3.2 months, with NCR and Bicol Region adjusting fastest, while Ilocos Region and ARMM took longer. Retail markets, specifically those paired with Cagayan Valley, showed adjustment periods ranging from 2.4 to 9.2 months. These findings suggested that monitoring and allowing time for the markets to adjust naturally is an effective response while also reviewing where to invest to improve market efficiency (i.e. transparent price information and infrastructure to reduce adjustment periods).
Policy implications highlight the need for real-time price monitoring systems to improve market coordination, infrastructure investments to support efficient goods movement, and targeted agricultural support for price leader regions to stabilize prices. The government should monitor market prices and focus on understanding the causes of longer adjustment periods and pursuing long-term solutions to improve market efficiency
Assessing the happiness of University of the Philippines Los Baños faculty: insights into academic well-being
No full textFaculty happiness is a key factor influencing productivity, engagement, and institutional commitment. This study examined the level of happiness among faculty members at the University of the Philippines Los Baños using an adopted instrument designed to yield a happiness index score. The self-report survey assessed dimensions such as psychological well-being, time balance, workplace environment, and career growth opportunities. Descriptive and correlation analyses were conducted to explore associations between faculty happiness and various personal and work- related factors. Specifically, Spearman\u27s rank-order and point-biserial correlation coefficients were used to correlate happiness score with ordinal and dichotomous factors, respectively. Findings indicate that faculty members exhibited moderate happiness levels, on the average, with psychological well-being and social support scoring highest, while time balance and governance scoring lowest. Happiness is positively associated with age, tenure status, faculty rank, promotions, income, and property ownership. Faculty members with strong social connections, such as being married or living with family, also report higher happiness. Conversely, challenges in workload management and governance negatively impact overall well-being. Workplace factors, including a supportive research environment, career advancement opportunities, and mentoring, are significant contributors to faculty happiness. Faculty members who feel valued in their roles and experience professional growth tend to have higher satisfaction levels. Addressing key concerns such as workload distribution, institutional support, and governance can enhance faculty well-being and performance. These findings emphasize the importance of policies that foster work-life balance, professional development, and an enabling academic environment to sustain a productive and motivated faculty
Case Study Analysis of Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation in Indang, Cavite
No full textOrganic farming, combined with agritourism and educational initiatives, has grown significantly due to the increasing shift of farmers from conventional to organic practices. This movement is driven by the benefits of organic farming, diverse cultivation methods, and the rising demand for fresh, healthy produce. Many people are also drawn to learning about crop and livestock management, the lifecycle of plants, and the appreciation of flora and fauna. These trends have led to the establishment of numerous agritourism sites in the Philippines, increasing from 10 registered farms to hundreds by 2024. Government institutions, such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Tourism, have played a significant role in promoting organic farming and agritourism in the Philippines through various initiatives and programs. Key measures include the enactment of the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 (RA No. 10068), the establishment of the Philippine National Standard for Organic Agriculture (PNS OA), the introduction of the Farm Tourism Development Act of 2016 (RA No. 10816), and the development of credit and financing programs tailored to support these sectors.
The continuous efforts related to organic farming and agritourism have effectively encouraged and inspired many farms, including Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation in Indang, Cavite, which integrates organic production, farm tourism, and training services. It serves health-conscious individuals, students, and farm enthusiasts in Cavite and nearby areas through partnerships, workshops, tours, and organic products. Led by Ms. Cristina Elequin, the farm emphasizes safety, regulatory compliance, and staff development, recruiting primarily through internships. Future plans include boosting marketing, expanding production, improving infrastructure, and securing Department of Tourism accreditation to strengthen its position in agritourism and organic farming advocacy. This study aimed to help the farm to identify its challenges and recommend solutions for sustainability and growth by evaluating its current business profile, business environment, and management functions. Specifically, the research aimed to (1) present the profile of the farm, (2) determine the present business environment for Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation, (3) describe the status of the four business management functions (marketing, production/operations, finance, and human resources) of the farm, (4) analyze the issues of Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation in terms of the external and internal environments, (5) evaluate the alternative solutions to the identified issues and challenges, and (6) formulate an implementation plan for the recommended solution to optimize the farm\u27s business performance.
The study used descriptive analysis to assess the status and performance of Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation. It analyzed primary and secondary data through environmental scanning, internal analysis, and integrated assessments. Environmental scanning evaluated the macroenvironment with PESTLE Analysis and the microenvironment using Porter’s Five Forces. Internal analysis examined the farm\u27s profile, vision and mission, and its four key functions: marketing, finance, operations, and human resources. The integrated assessment applied tools like the Zmijewski Score Model, Problem Analysis, IFE Matrix, and EFE Matrix to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the farm\u27s performance. Alternative solutions were developed and assessed using the SWOT Matrix, Internal-External Matrix, and Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM) to create an implementation plan. The Zmijewski Score Model, based on inputs from the bookkeeper and farm manager, identified the farm\u27s sustainability or potential risk of bankruptcy.
Key findings from the case study analysis revealed several challenges and opportunities for Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation. The farm’s vision and mission provide direction but lack strong motivational and aspirational elements to fully inspire its customers. Marketing strategies faced gaps, including a limited promotional effort, undefined target markets, and reliance on word-of-mouth referrals, which hinder broader reach and customer engagement. Financially, the farm depended heavily on donations, struggles with liquidity and profitability, and faces risks from limited revenue streams. Operationally, its small-scale production, technology limitations, and labor-intensive processes restricted scalability and efficiency. Human resource challenges, including over-reliance on a few individuals, low wages, and limited career growth, affected employee retention and performance.
To address these challenges, three strategic alternatives were proposed: (1) partnering with wellness and eco-lifestyle organizations, (2) reinstating organic poultry prodution, and (3) launch a farm membership program with exclusive benefits. Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation, located in Indang, Cavite, embodies the principles of sustainable organic farming, education, and agritourism. While the farm capitalizes on trends such as rising health awareness and advancements in agriculture, it faces significant internal and external challenges. These include financial dependency on donations, limited marketing reach, scalability issues, and a reliance on a small core of personnel. Inflation, competition, and substitute threats further amplify these challenges, underscoring the need for a more resilient and strategic approach.
To address these challenges, three strategic alternatives were proposed: (1) partnering with wellness and eco-lifestyle organizations, (2) reinstating organic poultry production, and (3) launching a farm membership program with exclusive benefits. Each alternative offers potential benefits. Reinstating organic poultry production could diversify revenue streams and appeal to health-conscious consumers. A membership program could foster a loyal customer base and generate a steady income. However, among these options, the most attractive and immediately applicable strategy for Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation is partnering with wellness and eco-lifestyle organizations. This partnership strategy addresses the farm’s core challenge of achieving sustainable income while leveraging its strengths, such as its organic produce and unique offerings like roselle hibiscus calyx tea. Collaborations with like-minded organizations would expand market reach and attract targeted audiences. By pursuing this strategy, the farm can develop diversified and sustainable income streams, reducing its reliance on donations and increasing financial stability.
Based on its current resources, Sanctuario Nature Farms Corporation has demonstrated the potential to succeed and flourish in the expanding organic farming and agritourism sector. By improving its vision and mission, strengthening its marketing strategies, optimizing financial management, and addressing operations and human resource concerns, the farm can achieve sustainable income
Determination of Factors Affecting Millennials\u27 Decision to Switch Jobs
No full textThe study aims to contribute to the literature on job switching, specifically towards the Millennial generation. Existing literature on voluntary turnover is very extensive, but literature on job-hopping remains rather underexplored. The paper starts with emphasizing the importance of understanding the employment dynamics of younger workers as older workers prepare to retire as these younger workers will eventually assume the vital leadership roles that make up the backbone of an organization. It wants to recommend ways on how to reduce direct and indirect costs caused by lowering employee retention. It will also help Millennials assess the career paths they are taking and will take in the future. This study identifies the factors affecting job switching of millennials and to describe the sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents.
The researcher employed a mixed method to achieve the study\u27s main objectives. Responses were obtained through a structured online survey and binary logistic regression was run with the probability of a millennial switching jobs or not as the dependent variable. Marginal effects of resulting significant variables were also analyzed and interpreted. Qualitative findings were also obtained through one-on-one interviews and categories of themes were analyzed.
The study concludes with household size, educational attainment, pay and benefits given by the organization, career and personal growth, and interpersonal relationships within the organization as the factors significant to millennials\u27 decision to switch jobs
DND - Denim N\u27 Denim : An Enterprise Study
No full textDND Denim N\u27 Denim, established on November 8, 2023, and registered on January 8, 2024, is a pioneering startup dedicated to transforming the fashion industry through sustainability. The venture focuses on upcycling denim to create unique, high- quality bags, addressing critical environmental issues while tapping into the growing market for slow fashion products. By positioning itself within the sustainable fashion industry, DND aims to demonstrate the profitability and appeal of eco-friendly fashion.
The fashion industry, particularly fast fashion, is notorious for generating substantial textile waste and causing significant environmental harm, especially through the production and disposal of denim. DND Denim N\u27 Denim was founded to combat these issues by rescuing textile waste and reducing the consumption of fast fashion. The venture sees a significant opportunity in promoting slow fashion, which emphasizes quality, sustainability, and reduced environmental impact. By leveraging the potential of slow fashion products, DND aims to attract a market segment that values sustainability and is willing to invest in high-quality, environmentally friendly products.
Operating as a sole proprietorship, DND is led by Ashera Faith Bautista, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer. As the sole proprietor, Ashera is responsible for all aspects of the business, including strategic planning, operations, and financial management. The business is supported by two skilled tailors who play a crucial role in producing DND\u27s upcycled denim bags. Each tailor specializes in different aspects of the production process, ensuring that every product meets the highest quality standards.
Ashera Faith Bautista, the founder and CEO of DND, oversees all strategic and operational aspects of the business. Her vision and leadership drive the company\u27s mission to revolutionize the fashion industry through sustainable practices. The two tailors employed by DND bring specialized skills to the table, ensuring that each bag is crafted to perfection. Their expertise in different areas of bag production allows DND to maintain a high standard of quality while efficiently managing production processes.
DND offers a diverse range of upcycled denim bags, categorized into mid-range and high-end collections. Each product is meticulously designed to appeal to fashion-forward consumers who value sustainability and unique designs. The mid-range collection offers affordable options without compromising on quality, while the high-end collection features premium designs that showcase the brand\u27s craftmanship and creativity.
As a one person management team, Ashera Faith Bautista efficiently oversees the general management of DND. She ensures smooth operations and strategic growth, supported by the two tailors whole specialized skills are critical to the production process. This operational model allows DND to remain flexible and responsive to market demands while maintaining high standards in product quality. The close collaboration between the owner and the tailors ensures that every bag produced meets the brands rigorous quality criteria.
DND targets Class A and B consumers, aged 18-40, who are fashion-forward and enthusiastic about bags. These consumers appreciate unique high-quality products and are conscious of their environmental impact. They align with DND\u27s sustainable ethos seeking products that not only reflect their personal style but also contribute to a more sustainable world. This demographic is willing to invest in products that offer both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility.
DND experiences fluctuating monthly sales, a common scenario for startups navigating market entry and growth phases. Despite occasional negative net sales due to reinvestment in assets and inventory, the company remains capable of covering its short-term obligation. DND\u27s financial strategy focuses on gradual recovery and sustainable growth, prioritizing long-term stability over short-term profits. By carefully managing expenses and strategically reinvesting profits, DND aims to build a solid financial foundation for future expansion.
DND employs a range of strategies to enhance its market presence and operational efficiency. Marketing campaigns leverage social media and other digital platforms to increase brand visibility and engagement. By staying attuned to the latest fashion trends, DND ensures its products remain relevant and appealing to its target market. The company offers a diverse range of mid-priced and high-priced products to cater to different consumer segments, enhancing its traction and market reach.
Partnerships with creatives and artists within the industry enrich DND\u27s product offerings and enhance brand credibility. Additionally, DND actively participates in startup and government assistance programs, gaining valuable exposure, feedback, and potential funding opportunities. These strategic initiatives not only bolster DND\u27s market position but also facilitate continuous improvement and innovation.
By addressing the environment challenges posed by fast fashion and denim waste, DND Denim N\u27 Denim contributes to a more sustainable fashion industry. Through strategic management, quality craftmanship, and targeted marketing, DND aims to establish itself as leading brand in the upcycled fashion market. The venture\u27s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and high-quality products positions it for success in the burgeoning slow fashion industry
Business Continuity and Resilience Among Selected Organic Farms in Laguna: Coping and Adaptation from Covid-19
No full textThe agribusiness sector faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as supply chain disruptions, labor shortages that led to business closures, and altered consumer behaviors, which emerged as critical concerns for organic farms. Moreover, the ongoing global changes, including the COVID-19 pandemic and El Niño, have brought to light the need for adaptability and resilience in agriculture, given that organic farming is a volatile industry and is too risky to continue without any assurance of what the next steps are. Laguna has been an important hub for organic agriculture given how universities and government organizations in the area are key players in the adaptation of organic agriculture, leading to the creation of Samahan ng Organikong Industriya ng Laguna (SOIL), which was given an accreditation certificate for being the first organic-certifying body in Laguna and fourth in the country under the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS).
The study aimed to determine the factors that affected the business continuity and resilience of selected organic farms in Laguna during the COVID-19 pandemic. It specifically aimed to: (1) present the socio-demographic profile of the selected Organic Farms and Organic Farmer Practitioners in Laguna; (2) classify the coping and adaptation strategies along with issues and problems among the Organic Farms during the COVID-19 Pandemic; (3) assess the existing Business Continuity and Resilience levels of the Organic Farms; and (4) formulate recommendations to address issues and challenges in developing a Business Continuity Plan for Organic Farm Businesses.
A descriptive qualitative research design was used for the study to classify the coping and adaptation strategies and to what extent they have been implemented or affected the farms. The research utilized a purposive sampling method due to the limited number of organic farms present in Laguna. The Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) was also used in identifying the resilience levels of the organic farm practitioners.
The majority of the respondents belonged to the Millennial generation. 49% of the respondents were able to finish college. Their main source of income came from their own farms (77%), and 43% of the respondents have been in the field of being an organic farming practitioner for 6 to 10 years. A large percentage of the farms are found to be large (3.00+ ha) (41%) in size, and the majority of the farms have been operating for 8 to 9 years (35%). 82% of the farms both utilize crops and livestock, wherein, vegetables (91%), along with swine (63%), and poultry (63%), are the most produced crops and livestock. The majority of the farms have never been certified (71%); only 4 out of the 17 farms will be certified organic in 2024.
It was determined that respondents did have problems with lockdown restrictions similar to what Chaudhry & Khalid (2023) claimed: restrictions and checkpoints limit farm labor accessibility. Negative impacts, such as the spoilage of vegetables due to prolonged delivery time from stopping at different checkpoints. Farms that offer agri-tourism were also heavily impacted by the loss of customers, mainly due to the very limiting protocols. Business closures, especially in restaurants, have affected the supply chain. Some of the surviving restaurants removed top-of-the-line products or dishes from the menu because no one would buy them due to the prioritization of staple foods in terms of primary needs. Support from the government, specifically the DA and MAO, was still a struggle despite being given aid and assistance. Money problems are also a major problem resulting from some of the respondents using their own money rather than money from the farm’s income.
Actions taken by the respondents during the pandemic were categorized as their coping strategies. Respondents utilized Facebook and FB Marketplace in promoting and advertising their products due to limited options for selling products. It could be concluded that Facebook is the top platform used by the respondents, which helped them during the pandemic. This became relevant due to the increasing usage of online platforms due to the restrictions of the pandemic. Using Shopee and Lazada was also revealed to help sell products such as Vermicast that were in demand during the “Plantito & Plantita” era. The shift in demand for healthier and organic products helped the businesses somewhat cope as they found the demand for the crops and livestock they produce.
Improvement of actions through learning and reflection was classified as the adaptation strategy of the respondents. According to 91% of the respondents, there were significant changes in the farms’ business function, which was to shift production from high-value crops to lowland vegetables; this is considered to be an action to adapt to the changing market demands. It could be implied that the respondents have eventually learned how to respond and mitigate the effects, which could be an indicator of how resilient these farm owners and managers are in terms of mitigation even without being prepared for these unforeseen events.
Respondents have found out how they could recover from the pandemic through four main strategies: government assistance programs, insurance coverage, collaborative efforts with other farmers, and having an emergency fund. In implementing a business continuity measure (BCM), challenges similar to what the respondents have experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, involving insufficient funds, a lack of government assistance, and a lack of planning, were found to be the major concerns that restricted them from practicing BCM. Certification is the main goal of these respondents for their farm, which could increase marketing credibility and increase their pricing as they could market it as certified organic products. Some of them also envision their farms as an agri-tourism spot and have a restaurant for integration as they promote a seed-to-table supply chain.
It could be implied that the respondents are committed to continuous improvement that would help them navigate the farm for sustainability by participating in training programs to enhance their knowledge of sustainability. Additionally, 89% of the respondents said they were training people for the continuity of their businesses. The overall impact of the pandemic severely affected (40%) the business continuity and resilience of their farms, indicating how MSMEs like these farms have indeed been affected by the pandemic and are still recovering from the event.
Using the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) (Smith et al., 2008), it was determined that the majority of the respondents showcased a normal resilience level when dealing with unforeseen events. The percentage of respondents with high resilience levels is also higher than those with low resilience levels, proving that most of the respondents could still have the ability to cope with a crisis and recover despite the negative effects.
The Business Continuity Plan (BCP) outlined four key Phases: Planning, Implementation, Monitoring, and Maintenance & Improvement. By systematically following these phases, organizations can enhance their ability to mitigate risks, minimize the impact of disruptions, and ensure the continuity of critical business operations. The farms were categorized into different groups based on various factors which would give a deeper insight into the unique challenges, opportunities, and needs specific to each group. Overall, the categorization approach facilitated a more nuanced understanding of the organic farming sector and enabled the formulation of more effective and targeted strategies to support the growth and development of organic farming enterprises