Journal for the Advancement of Sustainable Development Goals
The Journal for the Advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (JASDG) is an international, peer-reviewed, multidisciplinary journal dedicated to advancing knowledge, innovation, and evidence-based practices that contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The journal serves as a platform for researchers, scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and development partners to disseminate high-quality research, innovative solutions, and transformative initiatives addressing global and local sustainability challenges. JASDG welcomes original research articles, review papers, case studies, policy analyses, and innovative practices from diverse disciplines, including but not limited to business and management, education, engineering and technology, environmental sciences, agriculture, health sciences, social sciences, public administration, and community development. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange, the journal aims to support sustainable, inclusive, resilient, and equitable development across communities, nations, and regions.
License Statement Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0) All articles published in the Journal for the Advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (JASDG) are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). Under this license, users are free to: Share — copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format; Adapt — remix, transform, and build upon the material for any purpose, including commercial use; provided that appropriate credit is given to the original author(s) and the source, a link to the license is provided, and any changes made are indicated. The licensor cannot revoke these freedoms as long as the license terms are followed. Authors retain copyright of their work while granting JASDG the right of first publication. The published work remains freely available to readers and may be used, distributed, reproduced, and adapted by others in accordance with the terms of the CC BY 4.0 license. For more information about this license, please visit: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Copyright Notice Copyright © 2026 The Author(s). Articles published in the Journal for the Advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (JASDG) are distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, reproduction, and adaptation in any medium, provided the original author(s) and source are properly credited.
TESTING THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF CUSTOMERS’ PERCEIVED VALUE ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MOBILE SERVICE QUALITY AND CUSTOMER LOYALTY IN MOBILE FOOD ORDERING APPS
There was a rise in the consumption of fast and convenience foods, as well as an increase in the use of mobile food-ordering apps. With a simple tap on your mobile phone, ordering food has become a comfortable, effortless habit. Consumers frequently use mobile food-ordering platforms to order the food and drinks they want. However, in their online purchases, they always expected high-quality mobile food-ordering applications. MFOA should provide high-quality service to maintain a competitive advantage and meet customer needs, which has a significant impact on how customers perceive a business's value. Perceived value was significantly influenced by perceived service quality: as service quality improved, customers perceived greater value. However, a single indicator scale cannot fully capture the concept of perceived value, as customers' perceived value is a subjective evaluation composed of several dimensions. While online applications have transformed how people shop, even for food, it was necessary to understand how consumers perceived these services. Customers evaluated the value of affection, relationship, financial accessibility, exploratory, and contextual benefits of mobile food-ordering apps. These are the key drivers of perceived value that influence customer purchasing decisions and loyalty to certain products and services. Despite its popularity, the mobile food-ordering application faces several challenges in delivering excellent service quality. The objective of this study was to examine the mediating effect of the dimensions of customer-perceived value on the relationship between mobile service quality and customer loyalty. WarpPLS version 8 was utilized to determine the initial sample size of this study. The structural model predicted seven latent factors that influenced customer loyalty. Inverse square root and gamma-exponential approaches were both used. The sample size estimates for the inverse-square-root method and the gamma-exponential approach were 100 and 140, respectively. The targeted sample size of this study was 190 to increase its efficiency and reliability. This study used and adapted an online survey questionnaire to collect primary data that would be used to assess the research hypothesis and to validate the conceptual framework. This study utilized WarpPls 8.0 for data analysis, incorporating factor loading, Cronbach's alpha, CR, and AVE. This was evaluated using confirmatory factor analysis to assess the model's validity. Subsequently, structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the structural model and hypotheses. Findings of the study revealed that emotional value, social value, and monetary value had no mediating effect on the relationship between mobile service quality and customer loyalty, while epistemic value, convenience value, and conditional value partially mediate the relationship between mobile service quality and customer loyalty. This study recommended that MFOA developers and owners improve ease of navigation, speed, accuracy, transparency, and service recovery mechanisms to increase customer perceived value and influence loyalty. Meanwhile, the state should require fair compensation schemes for service failures. On the other hand, developers should adopt a transparent billing system and integrate functional, social, and monetary features, as well as a clear review of the food quality, delivery services, and efficacy of the digital application. The objective of this proposed recommendation is to capture the interest of both price-sensitive and busy individuals. Although emotional and monetary values indicate weaker effects, these can be improved through gamification, special offers, and cost-saving initiatives. Furthermore, strategies such as real-time delivery tracking, voice-assisted ordering, seasonal menus, and situational promotions should be implemented to sustain curiosity, continued use of the application, and long-term loyalty.
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DIGITAL STRESS AMONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS IN A PRIVATE SCHOOL IN NORTHERN LUZON: BASIS FOR A GUIDANCE INTERVENTION PROGRAM
This descriptive-comparative study examined the level of digital stress among senior high school students at Saint Ferdinand College, Ilagan Campus, during School Year 2025–2026 and used the findings to inform a proposed guidance intervention program. Using a G*Power-derived, stratified random sample of 159 students from the Academic Track (ABM, HUMSS, and STEM strands, Grades 11 and 12), digital stress was measured with the 24-item Digital Stress Scale for Adolescents across five domains: availability stress, approval anxiety, fear of missing out (FoMO), connection overload, and online vigilance. Descriptive statistics showed that respondents generally experienced an average level of digital stress overall (58.5%) and across all five domains, with connection overload (28.9% “high”) and approval anxiety (10.1% “very high”) showing the largest proportions of students at elevated stress levels. Chi-square tests of independence found no statistically significant association between digital stress and sex, grade level, or average daily screen time in any domain (all p > .05), indicating that digital stress was broadly distributed across these socio-demographic groups rather than concentrated within them. These findings, anchored on Hall et al.'s (2021) digital stress framework and Lazarus and Folkman's (1984) Transactional Model of Stress, informed the development of “Digital Balance,” a five-session, school-based guidance intervention program designed to build students' awareness of digital stress, self-regulation skills, and healthy digital habits. The results support a preventive, universal (rather than targeted) approach to digital well-being programming in senior high school guidance and counseling services.
THE TRANSFORMATION OF ACADEMIC LIBRARIES IN BACOLOD CITY DURING COVID-19
Academic libraries functioned as dynamic centers for research, learning, and community involvement before the COVID-19 pandemic. Once perceived solely as repositories of print resources, libraries are now grappling with challenges posed by the digital revolution, shifting user behavior, and the imperative to redefine their role in the contemporary educational landscape. Through the lens of the Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA) Framework, the study described how libraries addressed their challenges characterized by various strategies for innovation. The pandemic has transformed academic libraries in Bacolod City, leading to hybrid models that integrate physical and digital services. This qualitative study examined the transformation of academic libraries in Bacolod City amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically to investigate the impact of this transformation on information delivery service, library resources, library management, librarians’ competence, and the effect of the transformation in academic libraries. The study revealed a significant transformation marked by technological integration, innovative management strategies, and the redefinition of library spaces and services. Despite enrollment challenges and institutional shifts, libraries showcased resilience by adopting digital platforms to sustain educational support. It involved updating online collections, using social media to drive engagement, and extensively incorporating e-books and online databases. Librarians are skilled in navigating these changes, becoming digital curators and facilitators in virtual learning environments.
EXPLICIT INSTRUCTION IN TEACHING MAPEH – BASIC VOLLEYBALL SERVES
Explicit Instruction is a systematic teaching strategy that emphasizes modeling, step-by-step instruction, and guided practice. This study investigated the effectiveness of Explicit Instruction in teaching basic volleyball serves in MAPEH among Grade 8 students of Naga National High School, City of Naga, Cebu, Philippines. The research employed a mixed-methods design and sampled 70 students selected through purposive sampling. A validated performance rubric was used to assess students' pre-test and post-test performance in five skills: underhand, overhand, float, topspin, and jump serves. A semi-structured questionnaire was also administered to gather students' learning experiences after the intervention. Pre-test results showed students' initial performance ranging from below-average to average levels across all serving skills, while post-test results improved significantly, with most students attaining above-average to exemplary levels. Paired-sample t-test results for all five skills revealed a significant difference between pre-test and post-test performance (p < .001), confirming the effectiveness of Explicit Instruction in developing serving skills. Thematic analysis of students' responses yielded six major themes: skill development and performance improvement, guided and step-by-step learning process, increased engagement and active participation, enhanced motivation and confidence, a supportive learning environment, and a positive perception of Explicit Instruction relative to other methods. Students consistently associated clear demonstration, guided practice, and consistent feedback with improved confidence and skill mastery. The study concludes that Explicit Instruction is a high-impact teaching strategy that significantly improves students' performance in the five basic volleyball serves, and its findings were used to design a structured lesson guide for MAPEH teachers. Further research is recommended to explore its application to other MAPEH skills and across grade levels.
SCHOOL HEADS STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AND SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANNING IN PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, DISTRICT OF TRECE MARTIRES, CAVITE: BASIS FOR SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE
This study evaluated the relationship between school heads' strategic leadership practices and the implementation of School Improvement Planning (SIP) in public elementary schools in the District of Trece Martires City, Cavite, Philippines, and served as the empirical foundation for a proposed Sustainability Initiative Program. Utilizing a quantitative descriptive-comparative-correlational research design, data were gathered from 521 respondents, comprising 16 school heads (100% enumeration), 16 SIP coordinators (100% enumeration), and 489 teachers (55.4% stratified random sample) using an expert-validated, highly reliable instrument (\alpha = 0.930). Descriptive findings revealed that school heads demonstrated a "Highly Evident" level of strategic leadership overall (WM = 4.62), with Visionary Leadership scoring highest (WM = 4.62) and Resource Management receiving the lowest evaluation (WM = 4.53). One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) indicated no statistically significant differences in leadership assessments across the three respondent groups (p > 0.05), demonstrating a shared institutional perception. SIP implementation was evaluated as "Highly Evident" overall (WM = 4.29), led by the Implementation of Improvement Strategies (WM = 4.35), though SIP Coordinators evaluated overall implementation lower (WM = 4.16) than principals (WM = 4.37) and teachers (WM = 4.34). Pearson product-moment correlation analysis revealed statistically significant, very high to high positive correlations between all strategic leadership dimensions and SIP implementation domains (r = 0.741 to 0.918, p = 0.001), leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. Resource inadequacy for technology integration (WM = 3.57) and program sustainability (WM = 3.42) emerged as the primary operational challenges. To address these structural bottlenecks, an 18-program Sustainability Initiative for Fiscal Year 2027 was formulated and evaluated as "Highly Acceptable" (WM = 4.44).
DEVELOPING LEARNERS' READING HABITS: THE JOURNEY OF PARENTS AS READING FACILITATORS
The major concern of the parents in this study centered on the challenges their children faced following the sudden closure of schools, along with the associated loss of learning and its impact on reading habits. Using a qualitative study with a phenomenological approach, data were collected from ten parents through in-depth interviews. Findings for the first research question — the experiences of parents in facilitating their children's reading habit — revealed four major themes: striving to balance parental employment demands and learner needs, the strain of assisting more than one child with learning at home, a lack of personal balance, and parent capability. Findings for the second research question — how parents cope with the issues they encounter in facilitating reading — revealed four themes describing their coping strategies: maintaining a strict schedule, engaging in creative reading, keeping in reading, and organizing a daily reading routine. Findings for the third research question — the educational management insight drawn from the study — revealed four themes: tracking academic progress, valuing reading habits, motivation strategy, and parent–teacher collaboration. The results raise awareness of how parents navigate these challenges and provide a basis for school administrators to evaluate the effectiveness of different educational approaches, strengthen parent–teacher connectivity, and design programs and learning methods responsive to the needs identified.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN LAND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN ALVIERA, PORAC, PAMPANGA: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY
This phenomenological study examined project management practices in land development projects in Alviera, Porac, Pampanga—a mixed-use estate integrating residential, commercial, institutional, and recreational developments that demand a high level of coordination, planning, and execution. Using a qualitative research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen (15) purposively selected respondents comprising proponents/clients, project and construction managers, engineers, site supervisors, and contractors/subcontractors. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis focused on strategic planning and scheduling, cost management and budget control, quality assurance and control, and risk and stakeholder management. Findings show that a dedicated Project Management Team (PMT) significantly enhances project performance through structured coordination, clear role allocation, and centralized decision-making. Technical due diligence during planning contributes to more realistic scheduling and fewer project conflicts, while digital cost-monitoring and tracking tools improve financial oversight. A quality-first approach sustains compliance with construction standards despite schedule and budget pressures, and risks associated with soil conditions and weather are managed primarily through proactive flood-mitigation measures. The study concludes that structured, team-based project management practices meaningfully improve project efficiency, coordination, and overall project success in large-scale, mixed-use land development.
SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES FOR TRADITIONAL VERSUS ONLINE MARITIME TRAVEL SERVICES PLATFORMS: A PROPOSED FRAMEWORK FOR THE PHILIPPINE TRAVEL INDUSTRY BASED ON THE OT SHIPPING COMPANY–EGT TRAVEL AGENCY SERVICE PARTNERSHIP
This study examines the sustainability and competitiveness of traditional maritime travel agencies in the Philippines amid the rapid emergence of online travel platforms. Focusing on the partnership between EGT Travel Agency and OT Shipping Company, the research investigates how traditional, human-centered service models can be strategically integrated with digital technologies to enhance operational efficiency, service quality, and long-term viability. Maritime travel agencies play a critical role in facilitating seafarer mobility through complex, time-sensitive, and compliance-driven travel arrangements, yet they face increasing pressure from automated and platform-based systems that emphasize speed, cost transparency, and scalability. Using a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, the study collected quantitative data from 300 OT Shipping Company personnel through structured surveys and qualitative insights from 15 respondents via semi-structured interviews. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression, were employed alongside thematic analysis to evaluate operational performance, digital readiness, and service effectiveness. Findings reveal that traditional maritime travel agencies maintain strong competitive advantages in reliability, crisis management, and trust-based relationships, while digital tools significantly enhance coordination efficiency and transparency when properly integrated. The results support the effectiveness of hybrid operating models that combine digital systems with human expertise. These models improve service performance, sustainability, and competitiveness without compromising the critical elements of compliance, accountability, and seafarer welfare. Based on the findings, the study proposes a comprehensive five-pillar integration framework — Cultural Foundation, Technical Infrastructure, Service Reliability, Strategic Sustainability, and Performance Excellence — that outlines best practices for balancing traditional service strengths with technological innovation. This research contributes to the limited academic literature on maritime travel services in the Philippine context and provides practical insights for travel agencies, ship management companies, and policymakers. Ultimately, it highlights that sustainable transformation in maritime travel lies not in full automation but in the strategic alignment of digital capabilities with human-centered service delivery.
COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF PERCEIVED FLOOD RESILIENCE DIMENSIONS IN A PUBLIC SCHOOL IN RIZAL PROVINCE
Flooding remains one of the most frequent natural hazards affecting educational institutions in the Philippines, disrupting school operations, damaging infrastructure, and compromising the safety of students and school personnel. This study comparatively assessed the perceived dimensions of flood resilience of a selected public school in Rizal Province, focusing on Structural Resilience, Functional Continuity, and Preparedness and Management. A descriptive-comparative research design was employed involving 107 high school students selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a validated survey questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including the mean, median, standard deviation, and interquartile range. The Friedman Test and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test were used to determine significant differences among the three flood resilience dimensions. The findings revealed a generally satisfactory level of perceived flood resilience. Preparedness and Management received the highest median rating, indicating well-established disaster preparedness and management practices, while Functional Continuity received the lowest, highlighting the need to strengthen the school’s capacity to sustain educational operations during and after flood events. Significant differences were found among the three resilience dimensions, with Preparedness and Management differing significantly from both Structural Resilience and Functional Continuity. Based on the findings, a Recommendation Matrix and a Proposed Flood Resilience Action Plan were developed to support evidence-based decision-making and strengthen flood resilience in public schools. The study provides practical insights for the Department of Education, local government units, and school administrators in promoting resilient and sustainable learning environments.
THE IMPACT OF CLOUD COMPUTING AND INTERNET OF THINGS (IOT) INTEGRATION ON SMART CITY DEVELOPMENT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION
Smart city development increasingly relies on convergent digital architectures that bridge cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) to process real-time urban data, streamline public administration, and foster environmental sustainability. Despite accelerating policy interest in the Global South, empirical research examining the structural drivers and operational outcomes of Cloud-IoT integration in emerging economies remains sparse. This study presents a systematic review and empirical investigation into the impact of Cloud-IoT integration on smart city development within the Philippines. Grounded in an integrated theoretical framework combining the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2), and the Resource-Based View (RBV), a structural equation model was formulated and tested. Primary data were collected from 312 urban planners, local government unit (LGU) IT directors, municipal engineers, and smart city administrators across 35 Philippine cities. Structural equation modeling via Partial Least Squares (PLS-SEM) reveals that technological readiness (β = 0.342, p < 0.001), organizational capability (β = 0.285, p < 0.001), and environmental pressure (β = 0.194, p < 0.005) exert statistically significant positive effects on Cloud-IoT integration maturity. In turn, Cloud-IoT integration directly enhances smart city development outcomes (β = 0.418, p < 0.001), while data infrastructure capability serves as a significant mediating mechanism (β = 0.226, p < 0.001; indirect effect β = 0.402, p < 0.001). The structural model explains 72.9% of the variance in smart city performance (R-squared = 0.729). The findings demonstrate that digital infrastructure investments yield optimal urban performance only when paired with adaptive municipal governance, standardized data interoperability, and local institutional capacity. Practical and policy frameworks are outlined to guide LGUs in operationalizing smart and sustainable community paradigms.
TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS ACROSS DIVERSE PHILIPPINE INDUSTRIES
The accelerating volatility of post-pandemic macroeconomic environments requires organizational leadership capable of mobilizing human capital, driving digital adaptation, and sustaining operational productivity. This study investigates the direct and indirect relationships between transformational leadership dimensions—idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individualized consideration—and multi-dimensional organizational performance across key employment sectors in the Philippines. Utilizing an explanatory cross-sectional quantitative design integrated with structural equation modeling, empirical data were gathered from a stratified sample of 768 mid-level managers and operational personnel across five major Philippine industries: Business Process Outsourcing, Healthcare, Higher Education, Banking and Finance, and Telecommunications. The findings indicate that transformational leadership exerts a robust positive direct effect on overall organizational performance (β = 0.218, p < 0.001). Furthermore, dynamic structural path modeling demonstrates that employee engagement (β = 0.294, p < 0.001) and digital self-efficacy (β = 0.158, p < 0.001) significantly mediate this relationship, yielding a cumulative indirect effect of β = 0.452. Inspirational motivation emerged as the strongest single dimension driving operational efficacy, whereas intellectual stimulation significantly enhanced non-financial performance metrics, particularly innovation and adaptive capability. Comparative sector analysis revealed significant cross-industry variations, with knowledge-intensive sectors exhibiting higher sensitivity to intellectual stimulation and human-centric service sectors showing stronger alignment with individualized consideration. The study concludes that transformational leadership functions as a structural catalyst that enhances psychological resources and technological readiness. Practical implications recommend that organizational developers embed transformational behaviors into executive leadership frameworks, prioritize digital empowerment, and tailor leadership development interventions to industry-specific operational realities.
PREPAREDNESS, CHALLENGES, AND RESILIENCE IN FLOOD-PRONE AREAS OF CUARTERO
This survey-correlational study examined the preparedness, challenges, and resiliency of 80 household respondents affected by recurrent flooding in the Municipality of Cuartero, Capiz, Philippines. Researcher-made, Likert-scaled questionnaires measured the three constructs, and data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, means, standard deviations, one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Pearson r, with alpha set at 0.05. Results showed a very high level of preparedness (M = 4.89, SD = 0.26), a moderate-to-average level of challenges (M = 2.14, SD = 1.10), and a very high level of resiliency (M = 4.81, SD = 0.54) among households. No significant differences were found across groups in preparedness, challenges, or resiliency. A significant positive relationship was found between preparedness and resiliency, while challenges were not significantly related to either preparedness or resiliency. The findings suggest that sustained information campaigns by disaster-risk-reduction agencies and lived experience with evacuation strengthen household preparedness, and that this preparedness — rather than the presence or absence of challenges — is the stronger driver of resiliency in flood-prone Cuartero.
ASSESSMENT OF BURNOUT, RESILIENCE, AND JOB SATISFACTION AMONG NURSES IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN THE PHILIPPINES
The Philippine public healthcare system is facing a severe nursing workforce crisis characterized by extreme understaffing, low compensation, and high rates of outward migration. Bedside nurses in public hospitals operate under demanding conditions, putting them at high risk of occupational burnout. This study evaluated the levels of job burnout, psychological resilience, and job satisfaction among registered nurses in public tertiary hospitals in Metro Manila, Philippines, and examined the mediating role of resilience in the relationship between emotional exhaustion and job satisfaction. A cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational research design was conducted among registered nurses (N = 384) working in government tertiary hospitals. Data were gathered using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey, the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and a modified Job Satisfaction Survey. The results revealed high levels of emotional exhaustion (Mean = 27.49, SD = 11.31) and depersonalization (Mean = 15.54, SD = 5.97), alongside a reduced sense of personal accomplishment (Mean = 23.72, SD = 9.51). Moderate psychological resilience (Mean = 20.37, SD = 8.45) and low job satisfaction (Mean = 30.32, SD = 8.45) were observed. Multiple regression analysis indicated that the burnout dimensions and resilience explained 92.7% of the variance in job satisfaction (R2 = 0.927, F(4, 379) = 1203, p < 0.001). Path mediation analysis confirmed that psychological resilience partially mediated the negative impact of emotional exhaustion on job satisfaction (indirect effect = -0.2877, 95% CI [-0.3214, -0.2541]), accounting for 40.6% of the total effect. While psychological resilience is a valuable cognitive resource, it is insufficient to overcome the severe impact of chronic emotional exhaustion driven by understaffing and low wages. Hospital administrators and policymakers must implement systemic reforms, such as increasing salaries and enforcing safe nurse-to-patient ratios, to preserve the nursing workforce and improve healthcare delivery.
INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISORY COMPETENCE OF PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HEADS: A DESCRIPTIVE-CORRELATIONAL STUDY
This descriptive-correlational study assessed the instructional leadership and supervisory competence of public elementary school heads in the Districts of Daram I, Daram II, Talalora, and Zumarraga, Schools Division of Samar, Philippines, during School Year 2023–2024, as perceived by the school heads themselves and by their teachers. Respondents comprised the complete population of 103 school heads and 187 teachers across the four districts, surveyed using a standard three-part questionnaire adapted from established instructional-leadership and supervisory-competence scales. School heads rated their own instructional leadership as “often” practiced across all four skill areas — resource provider, instructional resource provider, communicator, and visible presence in school — while teachers rated school heads even more favorably, including “always” for visible presence. Both groups rated supervisory competence (decision-making, planning and organizing, promoting optimal performance, and professional knowledge and expertise) as at least “highly competent,” with teachers again rating school heads higher than school heads rated themselves. Independent-samples t-tests showed statistically significant differences between school head and teacher perceptions for resource provider and visible presence (instructional leadership) and for all four supervisory-competence indicators, but not for instructional resource provider or communicator. No school head- or teacher-related profile variate (age, sex, civil status, income, education, tenure, training, or performance rating) was significantly associated with perceived instructional leadership or supervisory competence, and no significant relationship was found between school heads’ self-perceived supervisory competence and their instructional leadership. The findings point to a consistent perception gap: teachers view their school heads more favorably than the school heads view themselves, and suggest that leadership-development efforts should broaden beyond self-assessment to include structured teacher feedback and cross-skill (instructional and supervisory) capacity building.
THE INFLUENCE OF SPORTS PARTICIPATION ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, DISCIPLINE, AND LEADERSHIP SKILLS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
This study examined the influence of sports participation on academic performance, discipline, and leadership skills among university students using a quantitative explanatory research design based on secondary data analysis. A harmonized dataset comprising 54,230 undergraduate students from multiple institutional and international sources, including the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the Multi-Institutional Study of Leadership (MSL), UNESCO, OECD, and peer-reviewed studies, was analyzed. Sports participation was operationalized through participation frequency, duration of participation, sport type, and competitive level, while academic performance, discipline, and leadership skills served as the outcome variables. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple linear regression were employed to examine the relationships among the variables. The findings revealed that long-term participation in sports positively predicted academic performance, whereas excessive participation frequency, varsity status, and team sport involvement negatively affected academic achievement, indicating a crowding-out effect. Sports participation demonstrated a strong positive influence on student discipline, with varsity participation, team sports, and higher training frequency significantly enhancing behavioral compliance and self-regulation. In contrast, sports participation showed minimal influence on leadership development, explaining only a negligible proportion of the variance in leadership skills and revealing no significant differences between athletes and non-athletes. The study concludes that sports participation contributes differently across developmental domains, strongly promoting discipline while producing conditional academic benefits and limited leadership outcomes. These findings underscore the need for higher education institutions to balance athletic commitments with academic support and to intentionally integrate structured leadership development programs into university sports.
ECO-SMART BIN: AN IoT-ENABLED GARBAGE SORTING SYSTEM WITH AUTOMATIC WASTE SEGREGATION FOR A PHILIPPINE HIGHER EDUCATION CAMPUS
This study developed and evaluated the Eco-Smart Bin, an Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled garbage sorting system designed to automate waste segregation at REH Montessori College, Philippines. Using a developmental research design guided by the Agile Model (Conception, Inception, Iteration, Release, and Maintenance), the researcher built a Raspberry Pi-based prototype that used camera-based waste detection, machine learning classification, and an automated conveyor-and-sorting mechanism to direct waste into biodegradable, recyclable, and non-recyclable bins. The system was evaluated by ten (10) IT experts using the ISO/IEC 25010 Software Product Quality Standards across eight quality characteristics, and by end-users (students, teachers, and staff) using selected ISO/IEC 25010 criteria and a researcher-made acceptability rubric, employing a four-point Likert scale. IT experts rated the system Highly Compatible (M = 4.00) to Highly Secured (M = 3.73) across all eight quality characteristics, with an overall mean in the Highly Functional-to-Highly Portable range. End-users rated the system Highly Usable (M = 4.00) and Highly Acceptable (M = 4.00) overall. The total hardware and software cost of the prototype was ₱20,755. These findings suggest that a low-cost, Raspberry Pi-based IoT waste segregation system is technically sound and well accepted by both technical evaluators and everyday users in a Philippine higher-education campus setting, and may serve as a scalable, low-cost model for other institutions.
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM PRACTICES AND THEIR IMPACT ON TOURIST SATISFACTION AND LOCAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN SELECTED PHILIPPINE TOURIST DESTINATIONS
This study examines the impact of sustainable tourism practices—categorized into environmental, social, and economic dimensions—on tourist satisfaction and local community development in selected key destinations in the Philippines. Using a dual-stakeholder research design, empirical data were collected from a sample of tourists (N = 400) and local residents (N = 400) across Boracay, El Nido, Bohol, and Baler. Multiple linear regression analysis was applied to examine the structural pathways. For the tourist model, environmental sustainability practices emerged as the strongest predictor of tourist satisfaction (β = 0.370, p < 0.001), followed by social sustainability practices (β = 0.305, p < 0.001) and economic sustainability practices (β = 0.213, p < 0.001), with the model explaining 32.6% of the variance in satisfaction (R2 = 0.326, F = 63.72, p < 0.001). Conversely, for the resident model, economic sustainability practices exerted the most substantial influence on local community development (β = 0.363, p < 0.001), followed by social sustainability (β = 0.281, p < 0.001) and environmental sustainability (β = 0.259, p < 0.001), with the model accounting for 43.9% of the variance in local community development (R2 = 0.439, F = 103.4, p < 0.001). These findings indicate a critical structural divergence: while tourists' experiences are primarily driven by environmental integrity and socio-cultural authenticity, residents evaluate tourism success through the prism of economic self-reliance and community empowerment. The study demonstrates that long-term destination sustainability requires a highly coordinated, dual-centric planning mechanism that translates consumer-driven environmental expectations into localized economic benefits. This study provides policymakers with a quantitative framework to support the implementation of the National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028 and Republic Act No. 9593.
Self-Efficacy, Study Habits, and Academic Performance of Grade 1 Students: An Empirical Analysis
Early childhood educational experiences establish the foundation for lifelong cognitive self-concept, behavioral patterns, and academic trajectory. This study examines the relationships among general self-efficacy, study habits, and the academic performance of Grade 1 students in public elementary schools in the District of Catbalogan II, Schools Division of Catbalogan City, during the School Year 2022-2023. A descriptive-correlational research design was implemented with a sample of 164 Grade 1 students selected via stratified random sampling from a total population of 277. Data collection utilized three structured, validated questionnaires to evaluate student profile variables, teacher-rated student self-efficacy, and parent-observed student study habits. Academic performance was evaluated using quarterly report cards, with the first and second quarters averaged. Statistical treatment utilized percentage, median, Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD), weighted mean, Shapiro-Wilk testing, Chi-Square (χ2), Spearman’s Rank Correlation (ρ), and Fisher’s <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>t</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:4.2pt; height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> -test. The students demonstrated a highly favorable attitude toward schooling (grand weighted mean = 4.25) and high general self-efficacy (grand weighted mean = 3.97) as evaluated by teachers. However, study habits were rarely practiced (grand weighted mean = 2.47) as evaluated by parents. The median academic grade of the cohort was 82 (MAD = 2), indicating satisfactory performance. Inferential analysis revealed no significant relationship between self-efficacy and study habits (ρ = -0.113, p = 0.150). Academic performance was significantly correlated with nutritional status (ρ = 0.250, p = 0.010), gross monthly family income (ρ = 0.254, p = 0.011), attitude toward schooling (ρ = 0.381, p = 0.000), self-efficacy (ρ = 0.213, p = 0.050), and study habits (ρ = 0.255, p = 0.042). General self-efficacy and study habits operate as independent, non-overlapping pathways that uniquely predict academic achievement. Based on these outcomes, a dual-component intervention program—the Self-Efficacy Enhancement Program (SEEP) and Study Habits Undivided Training (SHUT)—was designed to optimize student performance.
METACOGNITION AND INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING AS INFLUENCES OF SCIENCE PROCESS SKILLS IN STEM EDUCATION
The low science process skills among Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics students has become an urgent concern in education worldwide This study assessed the impact of metacognition and inquiry-based learning on the science process skills of 114 STEM students, revealing that despite high levels of metacognitive awareness and inquiry-based learning, students exhibit only satisfactory science process skills with notable deficits in hypothesizing and experimenting. Regression analysis confirmed that these factors account for only 10.2% of science process skills variance, highlighting a significant disconnect between students' cognitive awareness and their practical application of science competencies. This disparity suggests that current inquiry-based practices likely lack the structured, explicit scaffolding required to translate theoretical knowledge into operational skill. To bridge this gap, educators should prioritize the integration of explicit, process-focused instruction and guided scaffolding within inquiry tasks to directly enhance students' proficiency in experimental design and hypothesis formulation.
Global Research Trends in Cybersecurity for Government and Public Sector System
This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of cybersecurity research in government and public sector systems to examine its intellectual structure, research trends, and thematic evolution. A dataset of 460 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2017 and 2025 was retrieved from the Scopus database and analyzed using citation, co-citation, and co-word techniques. The results indicate substantial growth in scholarly output, reflecting increasing prioritization of cybersecurity in digital government initiatives. Citation analysis identifies key contributors and influential publications across developed and emerging economies. Co-citation analysis reveals knowledge clusters centered on human behavior, information systems governance, and security policy compliance. Co-word analysis highlights themes including artificial intelligence, blockchain, digital transformation, privacy, and risk management. Findings underscore the interdisciplinary nature of cybersecurity research, integrating technological, organizational, and governance dimensions. This study maps the knowledge base and identifies emerging research directions, providing insights for future research and development of resilient and secure public sector systems.
A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF SCHOOL-BASED OFFICIAL CORRESPONDENCE: UNDERSTANDING EDUCATIONAL POLICIES FOR BETTER SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
This study examines the underlying linguistic structures and power dynamics in official school-based correspondence on educational policies within the Schools Division of Catbalogan City, Philippines. Grounded in Norman Fairclough’s Three-Dimensional Model, the research utilizes a hybrid Corpus-Assisted Critical Discourse Analytical approach to evaluate policy communications transferred from the division office to four selected secondary schools: Samar National School, Guinsorongan National High School, Catbalogan National Comprehensive High School, and Silanga National High School. The analyzed corpus comprises key documents from the last quarter of the 2024–2025 School Year, focusing on school-community partnerships, learner performance indicators, teacher professional development, and instructional leadership. The corpus linguistic analysis reveals four primary discursive strategies: administrative, teachers', disciplinary, and interventional content. Grammatical examination of transitivity and lexical selection reveals an authoritative and highly prescriptive linguistic register. This linguistic framing positions local school leaders and teachers within a deficit model, prioritizing rigid bureaucratic compliance over local agency. The analysis highlights a systemic misalignment between the collaborative, decentralized goals of School-Based Management under Republic Act No. 9155 and the centralized, surveillance-oriented language of official correspondences. Based on these findings, this study demonstrates the need to reformulate educational policies using non-authoritative, collaborative, and culturally responsive linguistic patterns to foster genuine shared governance.
Unfolding the Issues Behind the "No Child Left Behind Policy": Inputs to School Management
This study investigates the systemic implications of the "No Child Left Behind" (NCLB) policy for student literacy and numeracy in public elementary schools within the Schools Division of Bislig City, Caraga Region, Philippines. Driven by the critical performance deficits of Filipino learners on international standard assessments, the research explores the lived experiences of educators as they navigate the administrative tension between educational equity and pedagogical accountability. Using a qualitative, phenomenological research design grounded in the six-phase thematic analysis framework of Braun and Clarke, primary data were collected through focus group discussions and key informant interviews with a sample of twenty public school teachers and twenty school heads. Thematic analysis reveals that a systemic misinterpretation of the NCLB mandate has normalized mass promotion and established a "barely passing culture". This structural shift has contributed to a decline in student literacy and numeracy, created profound ethical and professional dilemmas for classroom teachers, and widened learning inequalities. Although schools have designed localized remedial programs, their execution remains inconsistent due to severe funding and resource constraints. The findings highlight the need for systemic educational reforms, including the adoption of competency-based promotion, the integration of alternative and formative assessments, increased institutional support for teachers, and collaborative policy governance.
Utilization of Contextualized Story Word Problems in Mathematics 3
This action research aims to enhance comprehension of mathematical tasks through the use of Contextualized Story Word Problems. It is used as an intervention material to enhance reading comprehension and develop critical and analytical problem-solving abilities of the Grade 3 pupils. This also addresses the competencies outlined in the curriculum guide, while at the same time, provides an instructional material which the pupils can work on and practice solving word problems. The fifteen selected grade three pupils of Mabog Elementary School have been chosen as respondents for this action research in consideration to their consent and approval from their parents. A Pre-Test and a Post-test have been given to them to determine their baseline proficiency level in the four fundamental operations. The data has been statistically treated using T-test to determine their difference. At a mean score of 5.13 and 8.73 for pre and Post-tests, respectively, the p-value of 0.000105159 reflects a highly significant difference for the pre-test and Post-test. This is lesser than the 0.05 level of significance (p≤0.05). Therefore, it is found out that the contextualized story word problems were efficient instructional materials for Mathematics 3 Yet; it is recommended that learning materials could be used as supplementary materials and worksheets on other subjects like MTB, ESP and Aral-pan. Moreover, it could be used as springboard in the presentation of lessons and can be reproduced to be utilized as mathematics enrichment activities for those pupils in the Grade 3 who needs Remediation, Reinforcement and Enhancement. Aside from that, with the help of the Public Schools District Supervisor this will be introduced to the other schools in the district during DisLAC (District Learning Action Cell) session.
TEACHERS' DIGITAL COMPETENCE AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TECHNOLOGY-ENHANCED LEARNING
The transition toward digital-first educational landscapes has altered pedagogical mandates, requiring public school teachers to integrate complex technology into everyday learning. In the Philippines, this transition is mediated by the progressive rollout of the MATATAG Curriculum, which explicitly identifies digital literacy as a key 21st-century skill. However, public schools struggle with infrastructure disparities and training gaps, necessitating a rigorous assessment of how specific dimensions of educators' digital competence influence classroom outcomes. This study evaluated the level of digital competence among public school teachers in San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija, and examined its direct influence on the perceived effectiveness of technology-enhanced learning (TEL). Using descriptive-correlational and causal-comparative research designs, the investigation collected data from 180 public elementary and secondary school teachers selected using the Taro Yamane sampling formula. The research instrument was adapted from the European Framework for the Digital Competence of Educators (DigCompEdu) and standardized technology-enabled active learning inventories. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation, multiple linear regression, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings revealed high levels of digital competence (Mean = 3.746, SD = 0.404) and TEL effectiveness (Mean = 3.808, SD = 0.362). A strong, statistically significant positive correlation was established between overall digital competence and TEL effectiveness (r = 0.785, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis (R2 = 0.623, F(6, 173) = 47.598, p < 0.001) indicated that facilitating learners' digital competence (β = 0.174, p < 0.001), empowering learners (β = 0.156, p = 0.009), and professional engagement (β = 0.146, p = 0.035) were the primary predictors of instructional effectiveness. Bivariate analyses demonstrated that while age, gender, and tenure did not yield significant differences, structural variables such as professional position (p < 0.001) and cumulative ICT training attended (p < 0.001) significantly influenced competence and instructional outcomes. The investigation finds that teachers' digital competence is a strong predictor of the effectiveness of technology-enhanced learning, with student-centered dimensions exerting the greatest predictive power. Professional development plans must transition from generic device-centric workshops toward advanced pedagogical applications, student-led digital content creation, and equitable digital facilitation models to support the MATATAG Curriculum's educational objectives.
THE IMPACT OF BLENDED LEARNING ON STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
This study investigates the structural relationships among blended learning design components, student engagement, and academic achievement in Philippine higher education institutions. Grounded in the Community of Inquiry framework and Self-Determination Theory, this inquiry models how online and face-to-face environmental quality predict academic performance through the mediating pathway of behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagement. Utilizing a predictive-correlational research design, empirical data were gathered from 400 university students across public state universities and private higher education institutions in Metro Manila. Structural regression analyses reveal that blended learning design, comprising online environment quality (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>M</m:r><m:r> = 3.85, </m:r><m:r>SD</m:r><m:r> = 0.60</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:97.2pt; height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ) and face-to-face environment quality (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>M</m:r><m:r> = 4.08, </m:r><m:r>SD</m:r><m:r> = 0.55</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:97.2pt;height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ), explains 55.5% of the variance in multidimensional student engagement. In turn, engagement exerts a strong, direct effect on academic achievement (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>β</m:r><m:r> = 5.72, </m:r><m:r>p</m:r><m:r> < .001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:88.2pt;height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image005.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ), partially mediating the effects of the physical and digital learning environments. Comparative analyses indicate significant disparities in student engagement and academic achievement across institutional types and internet reliability, highlighting a persistent digital divide. Specifically, students in private universities and those with high-reliability internet connections demonstrate significantly higher engagement and academic outcomes. Conversely, gender does not yield statistically significant variations. These findings underscore the need to enhance techno-pedagogical infrastructure and institutional support mechanisms to optimize student-centered hybrid environments. Ultimately, the study contributes to the conceptual expansion of instructional design models in resource-constrained contexts, offering actionable pathways for policymakers and university administrators to implement sustainable, equitable, and high-impact flexible learning systems.
THE ROLE OF SERVICE QUALITY AND EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IN ENHANCING CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AMONG HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM ENTERPRISES
The hospitality and tourism sector in the Philippines is undergoing a critical transition from post-pandemic recovery to sustainable structural reinvention, with direct gross value added in tourism reaching PHP 2.27 trillion in 2025. To sustain this economic momentum and meet the national hotel room demand projected to exceed 456,000 keys by 2028, enterprises must address persistent issues of inconsistent service standards and high employee turnover. Grounded in Job Demands-Resources theory, Social Exchange Theory, and Expectancy Disconfirmation Theory, this study investigated the mediating role of service quality in the relationship between frontline employee engagement and customer satisfaction among Department of Tourism-accredited hotels in Central Luzon (Region III), Philippines. Utilizing a quantitative, descriptive-correlational, and mediational research design, empirical data were gathered from a matched, dyadic sample of 180 frontline employee-guest pairs (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>N</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> = 180</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:41.4pt; height:26.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> dyads; 360 respondents) across selected three-star and four-star hotels in Region III. Frontline employee engagement was assessed using the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9), while guests evaluated service quality via an adapted 15-item SERVQUAL instrument and customer satisfaction using an adapted performance scale. Structural path and multiple linear regression analyses revealed that employee engagement significantly predicts perceived service quality (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>β</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> = 0.4436, </m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>p</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> < .001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:99pt;height:26.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ), which in turn exerts a powerful direct impact on customer satisfaction (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>β</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> = 0.6028, </m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>p</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> < .001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:99pt;height:26.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image005.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ). Employee engagement also demonstrates a significant direct effect on customer satisfaction (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>β</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> = 0.2971, </m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>p</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> < .001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:99pt;height:26.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image007.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ). Mediation testing via the Sobel <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>Z</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:6pt;height:26.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image009.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> -test (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>Z</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> = 4.871, </m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>p</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> < .001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:93.6pt;height:26.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image011.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ) and bootstrapping with 5,000 resamples confirmed that perceived service quality partially mediates the engagement-satisfaction link, carrying 47.4% of the total effect (indirect effect = 0.2674, total effect = 0.5646, <!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr>p</m:r><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="bi"/></m:rPr> < .001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:42pt;height:26.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image013.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ). These findings indicate that while highly engaged employees inherently project positive service behaviors, the translation of their psychological motivation into overall customer satisfaction is highly maximized when channeled through structured service quality dimensions, particularly assurance and responsiveness. The practical implications of this research highlight the strategic value of institutionalizing standardized capacity-building initiatives, such as the national Filipino Brand of Service Excellence training, to bridge internal psychological work states with external guest satisfaction and long-term brand equity.
CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT AND ITS INFLUENCE ON GUEST LOYALTY IN HOTELS AND TOURISM ESTABLISHMENTS IN THE PHILIPPINES
This study examines the structural relationships between Customer Experience Management (CEM) dimensions—physical servicescape, staff responsiveness and competence, digital touchpoints and convenience, and personalization and customization—and guest loyalty in the Philippine hospitality industry, specifically analyzing the mediating role of customer satisfaction. Using a descriptive-correlational and explanatory design, empirical data were gathered from 384 guests across diverse accommodation categories in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Palawan. Path analysis and multiple linear regression models reveal that the four CEM dimensions significantly predict customer satisfaction (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>R</m:r><m:r>2</m:r><m:r> = 0.684, </m:r><m:r>p</m:r><m:r> <0.001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:102.6pt; height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ), with staff responsiveness and competence emerging as the strongest determinant. However, when evaluating direct influences on guest loyalty (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>R</m:r><m:r>2</m:r><m:r> = 0.577, </m:r><m:r>p</m:r><m:r> <0.001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:102.6pt;height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ), only the physical servicescape and staff responsiveness remain statistically significant. Crucially, the influence of digital touchpoints and personalization on guest loyalty is fully mediated by customer satisfaction, revealing a technology paradox in which digital convenience serves as a necessary hygiene factor rather than a direct driver of emotional brand attachment. Additionally, variance analysis demonstrates significant differences in guest loyalty across hotel star classifications, with 5-star establishments showing the highest loyalty outcomes (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>Mean</m:r><m:r> = 3.182</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:66.6pt;height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image005.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ), followed by 4-star (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>Mean</m:r><m:r> = 3.001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:66.6pt;height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image007.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ) and 3-star (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>Mean</m:r><m:r> = 2.827</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:66.6pt;height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image009.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ) properties (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:r>F</m:r><m:r> = 14.574, </m:r><m:r>p</m:r><m:r> < 0.001</m:r></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:105pt;height:17.4pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/ACER/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image011.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> ). These findings emphasize that while technological convenience and customization are critical for transaction-specific satisfaction, sustainable guest loyalty requires a balanced synthesis of sensory servicescapes and authentic interpersonal engagement. The study offers a robust, culturally anchored framework for hoteliers to strategically allocate resources, optimize digital and physical touchpoints, and operationalize the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence to secure a long-term competitive advantage in the global tourism market.
BetTer Me (Bet To End Regrets via Motivation and Engagement) Project for SARDO (Student-At-Risk of Dropping Out) through Transformational Strategies of Homeroom Advisers
Students at Risk of Dropping Out (SARDO) in this study refers to Grade 12 learners who exhibit characteristics and behaviors that indicate a high likelihood of leaving school prematurely. Early identification of warning signs is essential in implementing timely and appropriate interventions that address learners’ specific needs and promote positive academic outcomes. These warning signs include poor academic performance, frequent absenteeism, behavioral issues, socioeconomic challenges, family-related concerns, individual factors, and school-related influences. This study employed a qualitative research design to explore transformational strategies for addressing SARDO warning signs through the BetTer ME (Better to End Regrets through Motivation and Engagement) Project, anchored in homeroom adviser transformation strategies, with data saturation as the guiding principle for data collection and analysis. Findings revealed the significant role of class advisers in identifying at-risk learners and implementing proactive interventions. The results emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring of attendance, academic performance, behavior, and classroom participation as bases for early intervention. Immediate support mechanisms such as counseling, mentoring, home visitation, and regular communication with parents or guardians are essential for learners exhibiting risk indicators. In addition, school administrators are encouraged to provide continuous professional development for class advisers, while guidance offices should strengthen collaboration through structured monitoring and intervention programs. Parents and guardians are likewise urged to actively monitor their children’s academic progress, and peers should provide supportive and inclusive learning environments. Finally, Department of Education policymakers are encouraged to develop and enhance programs that strengthen class advisers' transformative role in promoting learner engagement, retention, and holistic development.
LEVEL OF CONFIDENCE AND ENGLISH SPEAKING SKILL AMONG JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS
Speaking is widely regarded as one of the most challenging language skills to acquire, and learners' self-confidence is considered one of the most influential factors shaping how well they speak a foreign language. This study examined the relationship between Junior High School learners' confidence levels and their English-speaking skills. Participants were 187 Grade 7 learners at the Malolos Marine Fishery School and Laboratory in the City of Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines. Confidence was measured using Griffee's (1997) Confidence in Speaking Questionnaire, which assesses three components — ability, assurance, and willingness to engage — and English-speaking skills were measured using learners' teacher-recorded recitation grades. Using Pearson's correlation, the study found that learners reported an overall Fairly Confident level of speaking confidence (grand M = 3.68), with willingness to engage rated highest (M = 3.78) and assurance rated lowest (M = 3.60) among the three components. Recitation performance was predominantly in the Satisfactory-to-Outstanding range. Level of confidence was significantly, positively, and strongly correlated with English speaking skills overall (r = .750, p < .001), as were each of its three components individually: ability (r = .645, p < .001), assurance (r = .732, p < .001), and willing engagement (r = .661, p < .001). These findings indicate that confidence-building strategies, particularly those that strengthen learners' sense of assurance, may meaningfully support the development of English-speaking skills among Junior High School learners.
TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP AND DECISION-MAKING PRACTICES ON SCHOOL PERFORMANCE
In recent years, there has been a lot of interest in the literature regarding how school principals' leadership styles affect student achievement. This study established the connection between teachers' adaptive performance in offering organizational support to teachers and the transformational management of school administrators (JAR, 2023). The descriptive-correlational research design was employed in this study. Because it aims to identify relationships between variables and enable the prediction of future events based on current knowledge, it is both descriptive and correlational. Its purpose is to paint a picture of the current situation. In order to protect users' fundamental right to privacy while fostering the "free flow of information to promote innovation and growth" (Chapter 1, Section 2), the researcher complied with all applicable provisions of Republic Act 10173, also referred to as the Data Privacy Act of 2012. According to this study, the students' performance was not significantly impacted by Idealized Influence, Intellectual Stimulation, Inspirational Motivation, or Individualized Consideration. As a result, school administrators must work hard to encourage and motivate teachers to help their students perform better on the Department of Education's standardized test. As a result, those who follow must be given a chance to experiment with and comprehend the various choices or activities that a leader may suggest. Using revolutionary management and the school head's decision-making, the teachers and school heads ought to closely assess the success of the school.