FMDS Student Papers

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https://repository.upou.edu.ph/handle/20.500.13073/52
Research outputs by graduate students of the Faculty of Management and Development Studies.

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    Evaluation of the Environmental Users' Fee System Among User Firms Within the Laguna de Bay Region
    ( 2006) Santos, Roda B.
    The study attempted to evaluate the effect(s) of environmental user's fee system (EUFS) not only in the Laguna de Bay Region itself, but also among all stakeholders, particularly user firms. The user firms referred in this study are those establishments which use the environment as the recipient of their wastes in the form of water. The study attempted to establish a pulse monitor for the acceptance of the system by the user firms as a whole, and the individual polluters as well. This research also focused on EUFS' effects on the user firms' capacity to sustain their respective operations. The environmental user's fee system (EUFS) is a pilot program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Phase I of the program was implemented by LLDA in January 1997. During the launching stage of this EUFS, five (5) industrial sub-sectors were classified as critical lake polluters namely: food processing, piggeries and slaughterhouses, beverages, dyes and textile, and pulp paper. Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) was the only parameter that was initially covered. In the succeeding phases of implementation, additional industrial sub-sectors were included such as food chain and restaurants, cluster dwelling and others. Consequently, total suspended solids (TSS) was added as a pollution parameter. The EUF system revealed both positive and negative effects on the user firms. Positive effects included: (I) optimization of water consumption through adoption of waste minimization and recycling activities; (ii) application of best practices to improve the firms' operations; and (iii) promotion of environmental protection awareness among the polluter firms. On the other hand, the policy's negative effects were: (I) construction of wastewater treatment facilities as an added investment; (ii) profits of the small medium scale firms were reduced; and (iii) production output or sales especially among the small-scale firms was also reduced. Furthermore, the study revealed that the positive effects of implementing EUFS far outweighed the negative effects. The study also recommends that the regulatory agencies concerned should consider amending some of their policies so that the negative effects. The study also recommends that the regulatory agencies concerned should consider amending some of their policies so that the negative effects of the program to the user firms, particularly small companies, could be addressed appropriately.
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    Capacitating Research and Development Managers in the Food Manufacturing Industry for Enhanced Management
    ( 2025) Purugganan, Filipina
    This study investigated the gaps that exist in the organizational structure and professional skill sets of research and development teams in the food manufacturing sector in the Philippines. The study focused on R&D managers whose roles and responsibilities have shifted to meet the growing demands of industrialization and globalization. R&D managers not only have to manage a more diverse team of equals but also lead from within a hierarchy that defies both the vertical and horizontal structures of conventional organizations. In this research, three broad foci within which R&D managers operated were identified. Moreover, their needs in professional skills and competencies were examined, namely, 1) core skills for innovation management, such as leadership and knowledge management; 2) obstacles to skill development, including scant resources and faulty organizational culture; and 3) professional development opportunities. Finally, the research analyzed opportunities for enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen R&D managers' innovation leadership competency. These results highlighted the necessity for strategic interventions, such as leadership development and the transformation of organizational culture, to close these gaps and enhance the overall management of innovation in food manufacturing.
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    Assessment of the Mangrove Rehabilitation Project in Sitio Bongkol-Bongkol, Rio Tuba, Bataraza, Palawan
    ( 2025) Belaro, Reya Magdalena A.
    The 409.42-hectare Adopt-A-Mangrove (AMA) Rehabilitation Project of Coral Bay Nickel Corporation (CBNC) and DENR-MIMAROPA is part of the bigger carbon sink initiative of DENR and environmental compliance of CBNC. The study was conducted on the part of AMA adjacent to Sitio Bongkol Bongkol with an area of 15 hectares. The aim of the study was to determine the current state of mangroves in Sitio Bongkol Bongkol and identify threats that could jeopardize the success of the AMA project. The mangrove and plant diversity identification used in the study was taken from the results of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) fieldwork of Gaia South, Inc., with the researcher as part of the fieldwork team, while data on socio-economic factors were gathered through survey questionnaires and interviews. The results of the study showed three (3) mangrove species in Sitio Bongkol-Bongkol namely; Rhizophora mucronata, Ceriops tagal, and Rhizophora apiculata being the dominant species. The data analyzed showed that education, occupation, income, and distance of residents from mangroves influenced the communities’ knowledge on mangroves. In addition, the result of the interviews showed the lack of knowledge of the Indigenous people of Sitio Bongkol-Bongkol in planting and taking care of mangroves; and that the inadequate support of other stakeholders and the absence of community involvement could delay the project implementation. The study concluded that creating awareness and active participation of nearby inhabitants were also critical. Therefore, Information, education, and communication about the benefits of nurturing mangroves must be intensified. Moreover, the support and intervention by appropriate government agencies and entities are equally important. The outcome of the study could help evaluate the state of the mangrove and effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts, the involvement of appropriate agencies for value-added livelihood support with the end view of reducing the extraction of raw mangrove materials, and the participation of capable locals in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the project.
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    Knowledge Management System Enhancement for a Private R&D Unit in the Philippines
    ( 2025) Dang-awan, Danzen F.
    This case study aims to enhance the Knowledge Management System (KMS) of a private Research and Development (R&D) unit in the Philippines. The insights of all four R&D staff were gathered using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data yielded five key themes: KMS Effectiveness and Challenges, Knowledge Quality and Documentation Practices, Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration, Knowledge Acquisition and Learning, and Organizational Support and Training. The commonalities, contradictions, and complementarities of the participant responses within each theme were explored to illustrate the KMS landscape. Then, the facilitating and hindering factors of the current KMS were distilled. Participant proposals for improvement were combined with literature recommendations to resolve the observed hindrances. The findings led to the following recommendations to enhance the KMS: Centralize and Standardize Documentation, Leverage AI to Enhance Efficiency, Nurture a Culture of Openness and Inquiry, Align and Increase Training Opportunities, and Formalize and Communicate Incentives.
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    Developing a Proposal on the Establishment of a Research Division in the Municipal Agriculture Office in Zambales
    ( 2025) De leon, John Michael G.
    Agricultural research in the Philippines is primarily conducted by national research agencies and regional field offices. Due to the fragmented structure between national and local government units, research initiatives at the municipal level are virtually nonexistent. Since the devolution of agricultural services under the Local Government Code of 1991, Municipal Agriculture Offices (MAOs) have prioritized extension services over research due to resource constraints. The objectives of this study are to describe municipal agricultural conditions, explain the MAO’s structure, identify benefits and challenges of a research division, analyze stakeholder needs, evaluate existing research models, and develop a comprehensive proposal for the division’s establishment. This study was conducted in a third-class LGU as it represents a middle ground between high-income and low-income municipalities. It is an appropriate study given the potential of its socio-economic growth. The study used a qualitative and descriptive case study design and utilized semi-structured interviews with 31 stakeholders, including farmers, fisherfolk, community leaders, researchers, and local government officials. Data were collected through voice recording and processed through non verbatim transcription. Key informant interviews were processed through thematic analysis, and seven themes emerged: establishing a research ecosystem, defining research agendas, addressing economic and environmental challenges, building capacity, fostering collaboration, managing knowledge dissemination, and engaging stakeholders. Thematic analysis identified key issues. Stakeholders advocate for localized research, partnerships, and accessible dissemination to address these issues. The study determines the necessity of an Agriculture Research Division at the municipal level for productivity and sustainability. This study also serves as a guide for the Sangguniang Bayan to enact an ordinance to formalize its establishment and also as a model for other municipalities to adopt for municipal-led agricultural research.
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    Enhancing Disaster Risk Reduction through Complex Adaptive Systems: an Assessment of Metro Manila DRRMPS and Recommendations for Improved Integration
    ( 2025) Garcia, Mary Lance B.
    This study serves as an exploration into disaster management frameworks that have been imbibed with principles from complex adaptive systems or CAS, herein referred to as CAS-DRR integration. As disasters in the modern age become more complex due to increased interconnectivity, it is essential for DRR practices to be made more flexible, adaptive, and innovative, and there is considerable evidence for CASDRR integration to be capable of addressing this need. This research looked into previous studies regarding CAS-DRR integration in order to extrapolate a content analysis matrix featuring the most commonly occurring themes. In this setup, the disaster management was framed as a complex system composed of three main subsystems: physical, social, and individual—the interactions among which produced a host of emergent properties and feedback loops that are characteristic of complex adaptive systems. This matrix was then used to examine selected DRR plans in Metro Manila to assess the current state of CAS-DRR integration within a local context. Content analysis showed that while Metro Manila LDRRMPs already contain strong policies and CAS integration to a certain degree, there is room for improvement in three main areas as stated in the recommendations: 1) Boost prevention and mitigation measures, 2) Boost the individual system through participatory approaches, and 3) Boost feedback loops and adaptive capacities through levelling.
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    Small Modular Reactor Technology Assessment in the Philippines Towards Decarbonization
    ( 2025) Alfonso, Pauline Bianca
    This study evaluates the integration of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technologies into the Philippines' energy framework to address rising energy demand, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and achieve a sustainable low-carbon future. Utilizing the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Reactor Technology Assessment (IAEA’s RTA) methodology, five SMR technologies—BWRX-300, HTR-PM, NuScale, RITM-200N, and SMART—were assessed against ten key elements (KEs). The evaluation employed the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique (SMART) to assign weights and scores to each KE based on national policy priorities. High-priority national objectives include ensuring nuclear safety, transitioning to low-carbon energy systems, promoting stable and affordable power, and establishing robust legal and regulatory frameworks. The BWRX-300 emerges as the most suitable option, scoring highest in site adaptability, safety, seismic resilience, and compatibility with the Philippines’ diverse geographic and grid conditions. Its modular design and passive safety systems make it particularly well-suited for deployment in the country’s seismically active and archipelagic environment. Monte Carlo simulations highlighted the sensitivity of the RTA scoring process to variations in environmental parameters, underscoring the importance of accurate assessments. These findings offer a robust framework for informed decision-making, positioning nuclear energy as a key component in the Philippines' sustainable energy strategy.
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    Technology Assessment of Cloud-based E-wallet as a Technological Innovation in the Philippines
    ( 2025) Cantal, Rowell
    This study assesses the technical innovation of cloud-based e-wallets in the Philippines, with an emphasis on performance improvements, operational advantages, challenges, and total added value. A qualitative case study methodology was used to collect data through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with selected members, managers, and unit heads of the Technology, Planning, and Innovation department of the currently widely used e-wallet provider in the Philippines. The findings show that cloud infrastructure significantly enhances e-wallet performance by increasing agility, scalability, and resilience, which allows quicker deployment and ongoing development. The significant advantages include exceptional operational efficiency, cost savings, and the potential for the company to shift its attention away from infrastructure maintenance and onto core service and product innovation. While challenges such as vendor lock-in and ambiguities in the shared responsibility model were discovered, the report recommends mitigating techniques such as a cloud-agnostic strategy and clearer operational frameworks. Cloud-based technology provides significant economic value and a competitive advantage by providing 24/7 availability and driving growth in the digital financial services ecosystem. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the cloud's function as a catalyst for future breakthroughs, such as the integration of AI, Machine Learning, Web3, and cryptocurrencies. The growing concern about environmental and economic sustainability in cloud operations is also discussed, emphasizing the importance of green efforts and transparent carbon footprint reporting. This research offers vital information for e-wallet providers, policymakers, and stakeholders, underlining cloud technology's revolutionary potential in promoting digital financial inclusion and sustainable operations in the Philippines.
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    Enhancing New Product Development in R&D Units in a Food Ingredient Company
    ( 2025) Pedro, Juan Paulo V.
    The global food ingredient industry is under increasing pressure to respond rapidly to changing consumer preferences, regulatory demands, and sustainability goals. Traditional new product development (NPD) models—such as stage-gate systems—have proven too rigid to meet these evolving demands, particularly in multinational companies managing geographically dispersed innovation teams. This study aims to develop a practical framework to enhance NPD responsiveness, coordination, and consumer alignment in R&D units of a global food ingredient company. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research draws on structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and internal documentation to identify key barriers and enablers of innovation performance. Data analysis was guided by five thematic enablers: global coordination, consumer insight integration, cross-functional collaboration, lean and agile practices, and digital tools. The findings highlight systemic challenges in fragmented innovation governance, underutilized market insights, rigid processes, and limited digital integration. The study proposes a framework designed to address these gaps and strengthen innovation effectiveness. While focused on a single case, the results offer practical relevance for other food ingredient companies seeking to accelerate NPD cycles and deliver more market-aligned, scalable innovation in complex global environments.
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    Impact Assessment of a Marikina Bioreactor Composting Technology Developed by the Department of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology Development Institute
    ( 2025) Alvaro, Stephanie A.
    This study assesses the impact of a bioreactor composting technology developed by the Department of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) and used in Marikina City, Philippines. Using the Multi-dimensional Sustainability Framework (MSF) and the Context, Input, Process, Product (CIPP) Model, it evaluated the environmental, economic, social, technological, and institutional effects of the bioreactor in managing organic waste in compliance with Republic Act No. 9003. Data were gathered through interviews and focus group discussion with Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) staff and secondary sources within the project area. Findings indicate that the bioreactor helps reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions, produces nutrient-rich compost that improves soil, and creates community jobs and involvement. While the technology expedites composting and reduces manual work, it faces challenges like machine wear and need for better support. The study suggests improving design, training, and monitoring. Overall, the bioreactor is a sustainable and effective solution for organic waste that benefits the environment, society, and economy while supporting national and global sustainability goals.
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    Government - Industry Linkage Supporting R&D Based Product Development and Technology Commercialization of a Start - Up Food Manufacturing Company in Metro Manila, Philippines
    ( 2025) Dela Cruz, Laira Mae L.
    Food manufacturing companies hold a crucial role in addressing the food insecurity problems in the country, addressing the SDG 2: zero hunger. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as start-up companies engaged in Research and Development, can help a lot with the support of the government. With government support for MSMEs in product development and technology commercialization, these businesses can contribute to the economy and help tackle food insecurity in the country; both the economy and MSMEs will benefit from this collaboration. This study explores how MSMEs can maximize the help of the government in their food manufacturing business, which government agencies have the program to help the food industry and the implementation of their programs. The study shows that government linkage is essential and played a vital role with their support in product development, access to technology, training and regulatory guidance resulting in improved quality of products and wider market access.
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    Biological Pump Potential: A Plankton Spatio-Temporal Modeling in the Philippine Sea with Emphasis on the Effects of Typhoons
    ( 2025) Saddi, Khim Cathleen M.
    Current carbon sequestration technologies are not meeting targets to deliver the 2050 global net zero goal. Hence, there is an increase in campaigns for nature-based solutions (NBS) rather than depending on engineered sequestration technologies, which is by far harder to scale up. Though amplifying the NBS that are already inherent in the environment is a matter of increased activities, the current changing climatic conditions complicates this, such as site-targeted mangrove rehabilitation, regenerative forestry, and restorative agriculture. These land-based solutions comprise approximately half of the global total carbon sequestered, while the other 50% are the materials that naturally sink in the depths of the ocean. Harnessing the potential of ocean productivity is a huge leap in the world’s carbon sequestration thrust. Not only does this process happen in the natural world, but quantification, monitoring, and forecasting activities can aid future policymaking to amplify productivity in our ocean–which is also expected to serve as a driver to the placement of programs geared toward water quality preservation, conservation, and treatment in inland waters. This study focuses on the quantification and forecasting of the Biological Pump potential in the Philippine Sea, specifically inside the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Variabilities and disturbances such as increased sea surface temperature, and considering the geographic location of the Philippines, receiving high frequency of annual typhoons, were investigated to affect ocean productivity. Spatio-temporal maps were generated to provide visualization for the trends and phenomena before, during, and after typhoon occurrence for the years 2019 until 2021. The normal scenario for typhoons was reflected in 2019 while both 2020 and 2021 recorded rare high-intensity super typhoons Rolly (Goni) and Odette (Rai), respectively. NASA Ocean Biology Processing Group (OBPG) Ocean Color data were used to produce spatiotemporal maps for both chlorophyll (CHL) and Sea surface temperature (SST). Correlating these maps with typhoon occurrence, and SST, the Biological Pump potential annual estimate was generated.
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    Conservation of Pinulot-Caulaman River Watershed using GIS and RUSLE-based Soil Erosion Risk Assessment in Central Luzon, Philippines
    ( 2025-03-07) Salac, Carlo P.
    Soil erosion is a serious environmental issue which can drastically impact watersheds like the case of Pinulot-Caulaman River Watershed (PCRW) in Central Luzon, Philippines. PCRW is a critical watershed for agricultural and domestic purposes covering Zambales Range and Mt. Natib to the west and lowland areas to the east. This study investigated the biophysical and socioeconomic conditions of PCRW to estimate the overall soil erosion risk and recommend conservation strategies appropriate for the watershed. The methodology involved data mining online and processing of secondary information through Geographic Information System (GIS). This was followed by applying Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model to compute soil erosion and delineate risk zonation by analyzing the temporal and spatial changes in the watershed on three selected periods, i.e., 2014, 2017, and 2024. The PCRW is characteristically fragmented showing declining forest cover across complex topography with young and clay-rich soil types that received abundant rainfall, however, there were minimal conservation practices employed. Based on RUSLE, soil erosion with more than 300 tons ha-1 annually was considered very severe, particularly in steep and sparsely vegetated western areas of the watershed. In 2014, these severely eroded areas covered 20% of PCRW which increased to 28% with 11,696 hectares erosion coverage a decade after. Considering the status of the watershed, these critically erodible areas should be prioritized for restoration through the enhanced National Greening Program (NGP). Furthermore, moderate to very high erosion risk categories require conservation measures while intact forested slopes should be delineated as protected zones that will altogether form part of the watershed management plan. This study highlighted the applicability of GIS techniques and RUSLE model in providing data-driven and evidence-based decision-making tools for soil conservation. Furthermore, erosion results can be verified through ground validation to enhance the accuracy of the model in assessing the PCRW, together with future watershed assessment of erosion in other parts of the country.