UNP Sustainability
Development Goals
SDG 11 - SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES
The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) holds a unique position as an institution of higher learning situated in the heart of Vigan, the only UNESCO World Heritage City in the Philippines. This distinction not only brings pride to the University but also presents exceptional opportunities for academic, and cultural enrichment.
Lived experiences and academic aspirations of American citizens living with home-based care Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients
Proponents: Ernesto Tagorda Jr., Glenda Tagorda, Marsha Michelle Cabuena, Kriza Rosette A. Cadorna
Abstract
The study explores the lived experiences and academic aspirations of the participants living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a rare neuromuscular disorder which could result in an early death due to its progression. This study used the descriptive phenomenology with purposeful sampling in the recruitment of the participants. A semi-structured interview guide was used and various platforms were considered such as actual interview in actual setting with the inclusion of videoconferencing and telephone interviews in gathering the data needed. The seven-step method of data analysis of Colizzi was utilized in data analysis in order to derive the themes of this qualitative
research. Four major themes emerged that reflected the lived experiences of the American citizens in this study namely: Theme 1: The State of being physically impaired; Theme 2: Support, Social Dependency and Independency; Theme 3: Academic aspirations, Theme 4: Positive Outlook in life and dependable caregivers. The process involves the experiences of the American citizens in the care of DMD patients aside from the dependable medical ventilators and other devises to extend the life span of the Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patient under their care. Results show positive scenarios of the life experiences of the American citizens with Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients. Despite the enormous demands of their unique task, the participants showed encouraging dispositions (Theme 4: Positive outlook in life- you can do it, dependable caregiver). Further, it is noted that in spite of these challenges, setting aside the academic aspirations of the patients was never an option.
Keywords: physically impaired, federal, life span, educational aspirations, positive outlook in life
FISDA: Smart IoT-Based Fish Far ming Monitoring System
Proponents: Mark Anthony R. Divina, Via Angeline P. Misanes, Jayvee D. Aguinaldo, Noel S. Rafanan
Abstract
FISDA: Smart IoT-Based Fish Farming Monitoring System is a system for the proper monitoring of water quality and feeding factors of fish. The function of the system is to remotely monitor the fish and display the status of water quality, including the water level, total dissolved solids, temperature, humidity, and automatic feed bin level. The overall purpose of the system is to bring comfort to every fish farmer by providing daily insight into fish farm monitoring. In developing the system, researchers used the Rapid Application Development model. As part of the requirements planning stage, information is gathered on what the model should include and how it should function. After gathering design information, the researcher created the model utilizing the hardware and software technologies while considering the user design suggestions. The intended users would then regularly review and apply the model to make sure that the modules were operating as planned. The researchers used a review of related studies, document analysis, and surveys to gather data. The level of usability of FISDA: Smart IoT-Based Fish Farming Monitoring System is determined using an ISO25010 software quality standard tool along with six criteria, namely performance efficiency, scalability, maintainability, security, portability, and usability. According to the findings of the study, the automated system, which earned fish farmers a grand mean of 4.51 is very highly recommended. Automatic fish farming monitoring has been proven to be extremely valuable, efficient, and convenient for fish farmers.
Keywords: IoT device, fish farming, total dissolved solids, load cell weight, temperature, humidity
Enhancing Swine Husbandry: The IoT-Integrated Hog Feeding Assistant
Proponents: Jezzer T. Tibreza, Fernandino S. Perilla
Abstract
IoT-Integrated Hog Feeding Assistant revolutionizes swine husbandry, offering hog raisers crucial insights into feed consumption and operational costs, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and comfort. This paper elucidates the system’s development process, methodology, and usability assessment. Employing the Rapid Application Development model ensured a swift and flexible creation of the Hog Feeding Assistant, guaranteeing the timely deployment of a fully functional system. Essential data for system design and features were acquired through document analysis and surveys. The system’s usability was systematically evaluated using the ISO 25010 software quality standard tool, assessing functional suitability, performance efficiency, compatibility, usability, reliability, security, and maintainability. This comprehensive evaluation provides a profound understanding of the system’s capabilities and user-friendliness. The Hog Feeding Assistant with IoT Integration is strongly recommended for hog raisers due to its remarkable efficiency, convenience, and exceptional usability. Seamlessly integrating into daily operations, the system not only streamlines feeding processes but also furnishes valuable insights, empowering more informed decision-making in swine husbandry.
Keywords: Swine husbandry, IoT integration, rapid application development, usability assessment, feed consumption optimization
Development of Non-Load Bearing Three-Core Stretcher Concrete Masonry Unit with Polyethylene Terephthalate Wastes
Proponents: Chavit G. Abalos, Krisha Mae Jemaima B. Cabe, Ej Alfred R. Manglal-lan, Gaylord A. Frando
Abstract
Persistent problems stem from factors such as the difficulty of waste recycling wherein plastics are substantial contributors having strong environmental impact. To mitigate this dilemma, reengineered plastics are emerging as reforms in solving solid waste management issues. This study aimed to investigate the effects of utilizing Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as an admixture in a non-load-bearing concrete masonry unit. Moreover, it sought to limit the amount of environmental degradation and prevent ecological and environmental strains caused by plastic. This study used the experimental method which involved compressive strength testing, unit weight, and unit cost analysis. In addition to this, the properties of the materials were studied to arrive at the optimum percent composition to generate the highest efficiency. Five treatments were utilized including the control (0%), 1.5%, 2.0%, 2.5%, and 3.0% PET waste admixture. In the findings, both the control CMU and the 1.5% PET waste admixture have qualified on the standard specification, ASTM C129, for CMU compressive strength. The unit weight decreases as the amount of admixture increases. In terms of unit cost, the sample with the highest percentage of PET waste has the lowest unit cost but with the lowest compressive strength. However, between the control CMU and the 1.5% PET waste admixture, the latter has a lower unit cost. Therefore, it can be inferred that adapting the use of PET wastes as admixture at 1.5% showed the most competence proving to reduce plastic waste environmental issues while gaining higher possible profit when introduced into the commercial industry of construction supplies. For future studies, a Comparative Analysis of walls made with plain and PET waste concrete masonry units may be conducted to improve the application of the material.
Keywords: Polyethylene Terephthalate, Concrete Masonry Unit, Admixture
Mainstreaming Ambisyon Natin 2040 and Sustainable Development Goals in the University of Northern Philippines
Proponents: Erwin F. Cadorna, Joselito D. Dela Rosa, Archie Martinez
Abstract
The United Nations, including the Philippines, adopted the 2015 Sustainable Development Agenda, which includes seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 targets to be achieved by 2030. The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) takes pride in its image as an institution of global quality. As a higher education institution, it is committed to contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations and the Philippines AmBisyon Nation 2040 goals in improving a lot of humanity and the world. This study aimed to analyze the mainstreaming of AmBisyon Natin 2040 and SDGs in UNP. It described activities under the 12 University’s development goals aligned to the AmBisyon Natin 2040 and SDGs and proposed a plan to sustain and strengthen them. Documentary analysis revealed that the University development goals, with feasible, practical, and doable activities, are allegiance to all the goals of the Philippines’ AmBisyon Natin 2040 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Other state universities and colleges may replicate this research undertaking to have a written account and inventory of their endeavors as a testament of compliance and commitment to achieving the goals of AmBisyon Natin 2040 and SDGs.
Keywords: mainstreaming, sustainable development goals, AmBisyon Natin 2040, higher education.
Narratives of Buri Weavers in San Juan: A Phenomenology
Proponents: Ma. Jesusa R. Unciano, Honorato R. Patubo, Charito R. Alconis, Marites I. Duquinal, Imelda Q. Nesperos
Abstract
Assuming a phenomenological stance that adopted an inductive approach (Creswell, 1998) and descriptive phenomenology (Christensen et al. (2017), this study explored and described the lived experiences of the resident-buri weavers of San Juan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, determined the participants’ view of buri weaving, the Ilocano identity mirrored by the industry, and lexical items associated with the cultural practice. The analysis of their lived experiences revealed that the weavers have both positive and negative views of the panaglaga ti silag, representing their view of the industry and reflecting the defining Ilokano traits. Also, the narratives of the Buri weavers reflect the dynamics of their engagement in this treasured cultural practice and mirror the Ilokano traits. Government agencies and educational institutions should provide financial and technical assistance for the buri industry to continue thriving and for the weavers to keep improving their artistry and weaving skills. Through it, the silag weaving industry will continue to serve as a bridge that provides the missing link between the past, present, and future of the people in this part of the Province of Ilocos Sur. Also, 50 Ilokano buri weaving-related terminologies surfaced and were compiled in a supplementary material called Buri: Preserved Language.
Keywords: narratives, culture, buri industry, experiences, Philippines/Asia
Predicting Countries with Low and High Robbery Rates Using Discriminant Analysis
Proponents: Joseph G. Taban, Dolores R. Bersamina, Randolf M. Agup
Abstract
Crime such as robbery has been identified as one of the socioeconomic problems across the world, which adverse social, economic, and family conditions have caused. Using discriminant analysis, this study proposed a model for classifying and predicting countries with low and high robbery rates. Robbery rates in 2018 of 42 countries across the world have been extracted from United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime as the dependent variable. Meanwhile, the independent variables included the unemployment rate, average household size, and poverty index. The study originally classified 32 countries with low and 10 with high robbery rates. Pretesting was employed, and the results showed that all the assumptions for discriminant analysis were fulfilled. Using standardized beta and Wilk’s Lambda, the average household size is the best predictor variable, while the unemployment rate is the least predictor variable. The overall prediction function model is significant. The classification results by discriminant analysis algorithm for groups with low and high robbery rates show that the proposed model correctly predicts 78.6% of the robbery rates of countries based on the three characteristics, such as their unemployment rate, average household size, and poverty index.
Keywords: Robbery rates, discriminant analysis, unemployment rate, average household size, poverty index
Heritage on the Ground: A Thirdspace Reading of Calle Crisologo, Vigan City, Philippines
Proponent: Mark Louie Tabunan
Abstract
Christoph Brumann and David Berliner, in their book World Heritage on the Ground: Ethnographic Perspectives (2016), ask what World Heritage (WH) does on the ground far away from the meeting halls of the WH Committee. This article explores the ways in which WH moves and breathes on the ground of Calle Crisologo, Vigan City in northern Philippines. Utilizing participant observation and
key informant interviews and building on Edward Soja’s notion of Thirdspace, it aims to unpack differences of meanings with regard to the ways WH gets negotiated by locals. The themes of remembrances, counter-memory, impacts and meanings of WH, rootedness and counter practices, and postcoloniality problematize and enrich WH’s relationship with local histories, memories, societies, identities, and economies. Shown through the variegated accounts are the ways in which people’s engagement with the street turns it into a fecund and volatile, real and imagined lifeworld of experiences. Findings and lessons relate well to heritage’s meaning, value, and significance – such as, for instance, the ways that local people’s voices can be better valued for more sustainable and inclusive heritage, culture, and memory of Vigan City and elsewhere.
Keywords: World Heritage; thirdspace; Calle Crisologo; Vigan City; urban space
Arem wennu Raem (admiration or respect): A phenomenological understanding of Ilocano courtship
Proponent: Chase Mark S. Suyat, Mae Angelie V. Salvador-Garcia, Julie May N. Molina
Abstract
The study was conducted to determine the real meaning of “panagarem” in the concept of Ilocano and its evolution, ways, and practices through the years. This study employed phenomenology using individual interviews. There were 4 participants from each generation. The study revealed that panagarem” plays an essential role in understanding the deeper meaning of Ilocano courtship with new strategies in the courting of the Ilocanos, whether traditional or modern style. The custom of Ilocano panagarem requiring a certain man to work for the woman’s family was a “long, arduous, and expensive process of courting. A series of friendly dates is the normal starting point in the Ilocano way of courting, and it is usually beginning with “sinuron” or the process of teasing, a process of pairing off a potential couple. Moreover, material things are the basis of settling down, because they are focused on the idea of stability. However, some of the previous practices are not going away; they use them until now. However, some practices have been added because of technology and social media platforms. However, the bottom line here is that the respect and honor of the parents of the “Maarar-arem” are still practiced in different generations. That concludes that “Panagarem” is also “Panag- Raem.
Keywords: courtship, “Panagarem” evolution, modern courtship, traditional courtship
Cultural Tangible Properties: The Development of the Candon Heritage Resources conservation Plan
Proponents: Ludivina Abaya Lozano
Abstract
The City of Candon in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, is rich in culturally built heritage, particularly houses of ancestry. The City identifies ancestral houses, while other buildings and structures are not included in the list but can already be considered part of the culturally built heritage. Collectively, these cultural resources are within a proposed heritage district of the City, including a heritage growth corridor–where the high concentration of such resources is located — that may serve as a visual representation and act as a living museum of the area. This study formulated a proposed Heritage Resources Conservation Plan to preserve and protect the identified built heritage resources in Candon City. A field survey was conducted to identify and map the local heritage resources and their cultural significance. Upon identification of the City’s heritage district, several guidelines regarding further development in the area, especially along the heritage corridor, were recommended to preserve and protect these cultural resources from possible deterioration and destruction.
Keywords: Cultural Tourism, Heritage Zone, Built Heritage, Local heritage Resources
Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSP) in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management of Secondary Schools in Indigenous Cultural Communities in Abra, Philippines
Proponents: Rhoda P. Asencio, Edelyn A. Cadorna
Abstract
Indigenous knowledge systems and practices (IKSP) are utilized by the Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICC) to mitigate the impact of disasters. This study determined the IKSPs in disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) of the secondary schools in the selected indigenous communities in Abra, Philippines. It employed a mixed-method explanatory sequential research design. Data were gathered using surveys and interviews. Findings showed that the schools in the ICCs utilized their IKSPs to manage disasters along the four thematic areas of DRRM: prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, and rehabilitation. IKSPs, as part of disaster management, include utilizing local plants, observing the behaviors of some animals and insects, observing the colors of the clouds, and performing rituals by the elders in the community. Furthermore, the result of the study revealed these IKSPs emerged to be essential in the prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, and rehabilitation during disasters such as; “Alluyon,” “Ganap,” “Komon,” “Sagubay,” Ubaya,” ” Senga,” “Lapat System,” “Agamang,” “Bodong” and “Dap- Ay.”
Keywords: Indigenous Knowledge, Maeng, Lapat, Explanatory design, Abra.
Development of Gaynek Ta Cabiga-O: A Way to Strengthen the Panaglaga Culture
Proponents: Adrian Keith M. Serna, James Carlo Asuncion, Revenson S. Saniatan, Erwin H. Sumagit Charlie V. Tapuro, Matilde T. Concordia
Abstract
“Gaynek ta Cabiga-o” emerges as a creative dance form inspired by the traditional artistry of crafting winnowing baskets, known as “panaglaga ti bigao,” deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the Itneg tribe in Nagsincaoan, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur. This exploratory-sequential approach research blends qualitative insights from interviews and participatory observations with quantitative analysis through validated questionnaires from five participants. Guided by the Communities of Practice (CoP), the study’s focal point is to enhance and preserve the Panaglaga Culture by delving into the intricate stages of crafting bigao. This endeavor culminates in the creation of a dance, intricately weaving together traditional movements, such as bamboo cutting (panagpukan) and weaving (panaglaga), into a cultural expression. Key materials integral to panaglaga ti bigao include bamboo, customized knives, lebleb, uway, labtang, kulokol, bamboo strips, and residue. The resulting dance undergoes expert evaluation, receiving a “Very Much Acceptable” rating for dance steps and music. In essence, “Gaynek ta Cabiga-o” not only breathes new life into cultural practices but also serves as a testament to the community’s commitment to cultural preservation and creative innovation. Recommendations based on these findings pave the way for further cultural enrichment and community engagement.
Keywords: Culture, indigenous people, panaglaga, creative dance
Cubyertos de Kawayan
Proponents: Shean M. Condino, Fraulein Claire G. Ronquillo, Michelle M. Pacpaco
Abstract
The study aimed to determine the acceptability of bamboo cutlery products, primarily tableware, to lessen the use of plastic cutleries and to be the most sought–after store offering eco-friendly and sustainable products by assisting in the elimination of single–use plastic waste while making a meaningful impact on the lives of the people in the Province of Ilocos Sur. The objective of the study is to promote the usage of eco-friendly products as a replacement for plastic cutleries; it serves as a contributor to the action needed by the government to combat environmental destruction and for environmental protection, and to preserve the culture of Ilokanos in using wooden or bamboo cutleries. Alongside the personal factors of the respondents, the extent of knowledge of the residents of Ilocos Sur about bamboo products was also identified about how feasible the bamboo cutlery once established. The study utilized the simple random sampling technique to determine the sample size of the respondents, which utilized frequency and percentage to determine the profile, familiarity, and marketability of bamboo products. The result showed a great familiarity with bamboo products, wherein the respondents stated their keen interest in such products. There is a “High” possibility that the feasibility of the Cubyertos de Kawayan will be established.
Keywords: Bamboo Cutlery, Environmental Protection, Sustainability, Pollution, Feasibility
Beyond Tangible: Vigan City's Binatbatan Festival: Basis for a Policy Brief
Proponent: Henryson A. Fetalvero
Abstract
Festival conveys encouraging influence in drawing tourists, improving image of destination and supporting local communities. This study scanned “Binatbatan” festival of Vigan City from the point of view of organizers and visitors. Through a case study, the qualitative method was employed to understand the Festival underscoring, its origin, celebration schemes and the challenges on the people and the place, magnifying management strategies for ordinance implementation on various activity related to the culture and tradition of the locality. A Focus Group Discussions and interviews of respondents and visitors conducted were interpreted. The study realized that Festivals evolve through informal sociability; planning and coordination, as well as control, were vital, creating avenues for cultural and artistic appreciation and the formation of social capital, that the festivals shares four common success factors of ambiance, socialization, emotion and reflection; and that planning, budgeting, coordination, promotion as well as control were vital to the celebrations and that festivals created avenues for job generation, cultural and artistic appreciation and formation of social capital. Based on the findings, policy brief that act on the challenges met by the organizers in managing the festivals, were proposed.
Keywords: Festival, Case Study, Event’s Challenges Sustainability, Policy Brief
Votive Offerings for Miracles: Ex-Votos for Apo Lakay at the Simbaan a Bassit in Vigan City
Proponent: Ashley Paulino S. Martinez
Abstract
The study is about the practice of offering silver votive offering also known as ex-voto of the Ilocanos at the Simbaan a Bassit in response to a divine intervention to a health concern in return for a hoped miracle, or a thanksgiving for graces received in answer to a prayer. These religious folk charms that are traditionally used for healing purposes both by individuals and by the community. The research design is a descriptive qualitative method of research using the semiotics and hermeneutics tools in analyzing data. Results show that those who practice religious activities tend to have a greater healing capability. It also showsthat individuals who regularly participate in spiritual worship services or related activities firmly believe that spirituality or the presence of a higher being in power are sources of strength and comfort to them are healthier and possess greater healing capabilities. The premise that the ex-voto is the solemn promise of the supplicant to Apo Lakay in time of difficulty, illness, or to give thanks for granted petition is a concrete testimonial of the fulfillment of the vow. Ex-voto as a memorial practice can relate to both the past and the present, as current public demonstrations of health-gratitude or health-awareness extend beyond the divine, the shrine, and their community. The votive offerings are the material embodiment of the miracle itself.
Keywords: Votive / Ex-voto, Apo Lakay, Coping mechanism, Divine intervention
Ilokano-Ness Of Bain Ken Basol: A Phenomenological Inquiry
Proponents: Aldrin S. Jaramilla, Lloyd A. Mata, Simeon Abarquez IV
Abstract
This study aims to metaphysically explore, interpret, and establish how the Ilocanos in the northern part of the Philippine islands experience bain ken basol, understood as shame and sin or guilt, during moral failure and how they resolve it. The research method used is a qualitative research design employing the philosophic phenomenological method that comprises the four intertwining steps of 1) epoche, 2) phenomenological reduction, 3) imaginative variation, and 4) synthesis. Vital information had been explored from thirty informants represented by the young, middle-aged, and old generations through in-depth, semi-structured interviews or open-ended questioning. The findings of the study revealed that thecultural complexities and the perspectival and contextual concepts of the Ilocano society have established a progressively multifaceted psychoanalytic intersubjective ground. The discussions of the experiences and concepts built up on bain ken basol further boiled down to four theories, namely: theory of distinctiveness, theory of oneness, theory of accommodation, theory of interconnectedness, theory of relational responsibility.
Keywords: shame, sin-guilt, intersubjective, grounded theories
Initial Inventory and Documentation of Stone/Brick-and-Lime Vats (Baldi) in Some Northern Towns of the Province of Ilocos Sur, Philippines
Proponent: Fatima Nicetas Alonzo
Abstract
This is an initial inventory and documentation of remaining, abandoned and non-functioning vats, locally referred to as baldi, in some northern towns of Ilocos Sur, many of which are in various states of human-mediated damage and natural deterioration. It was undertaken by faculty proponents and students of the College of Architecture of the University of Northern Philippines, Vigan City with a local anthropologist for the period 2017 to 2018. The research sought to establish the significance of the vats in the cultural life of the province. As a descriptive method of research of the qualitative type, the project basically aimed to identify the location of the vats, determine their construction methodology and materials of construction, inscribe their architectural character and features, evaluate their current physical condition and contexts, and ascertain their ownership. The information gathered is structured and presented in a summary of 1) Inventory, in tables, 2) Graphical presentation, 3) Photographs and 4) Description of vat attributes. There are 63 (7 of which could not be measured and could only be photographed) inventoried vats, excluding wells and other features in a few vat assemblages in 17 vat sites (12 of which with visible vat assemblages [sites that include two or more vats]), in 10 barangays of 8 towns (Sinait, Cabugao, San Juan, Magsingal, Santo Domingo, San Ildefonso, San Vicente, and Bantay).
Preliminary Notes from Oral History and Literature on the Baldi of Ilocos Sur, Philippines
Proponents: M.L. I. Ingel, Fatima Nicetas A. Rabang-Alonzo, Uldarico A. Pacada, G.A. Retuta and Renato B.Navarro
Abstract
Stone or brick-and-lime vats locally referred to as baldi occur across the province of Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Many of the baldi must have been constructed for the purpose of natural indigo dye production from the locally-grown indigo plant. This was important to the Ilocos economy and contributed to the wealth of the historic town of Vigan listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, some vats had been used for different production activities, including those that apparently changed function at certain points in time, attributable to the shifts in the economy of the region. Most or all of the vats had ceased being utilized for livelihood-related production since around the 1960s or even earlier. Overall, the vats should be viewed not as generic cultural features with a single function, but as tangible cultural heritage that must have had a variety of functions across space and time given site-specific and dynamic environmental, economic, and cultural contexts. They merit further historical-archaeological research, particularly in relation to the history of Vigan.
Keywords: baldi, indigo vats, indigo dye, built heritage, heritage protection