The Vector: International Journal of Emerging Science, Technology and Management (IJESTM)

The Dynamics of Agricultural Land Use Cover Change Using Agricultural Carrying Capacity: The Case of Magsingal, Ilocos Sur

Irene Fides Mendoza-Pantaleon — 2025-12-31

Amid intensifying development pressures and shifting socio-economic landscapes, this study provides a critical assessment of how changing land-use patterns are reshaping the agricultural sustainability and long-term food and crop security in Magsingal, Ilocos Sur. This study explores the evolving dynamics of agricultural land use in Magsingal, Ilocos Sur, focusing on its Agricultural Carrying Capacity (ACC). Employing a mixed-methods approach with expert interviews and survey data, it investigates pressures on farmlands, including urbanization, economic factors, and demographic shifts. Findings indicate a decline in Magsingal's ACC from 0.56 hectares per farmer in 2021 to 0.52 hectares in 2023, reflecting increasing land fragmentation and challenges to farming sustainability. This trend mirrors national land fragmentation patterns observed in the 2012 Census of Agriculture. Key drivers of land-use change include urban sprawl, infrastructure development, and conversions to residential and commercial uses. Recommendations include integrating ACC assessments into local land use planning, promoting regular land evaluations, and fostering community engagement in decision-making. The study advocates for policies that secure land tenure, enhance farming practices, and balance urban expansion with agricultural preservation, ultimately promoting long-term agricultural sustainability and food security in Magsingal.

Diversity and Catch per Unit Effort of Marine Fishes Caught by Various Fishing Gears in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur

Dianna C. Lalin — 2025-12-31

Fishery resources play a vital role in ensuring food security and nutrition while contributing to economic growth through fish production and trade. This study aimed to determine the diversity of marine fishes caught by various fishing gears in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur. A quantitative research design was utilized, providing numerical data on the diversity, abundance, and catch per unit effort of marine fishes. Data gathering was conducted in the five coastal barangays of Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, from January to March 2025. Mean, ANOVA, and Games-Howell tests were employed to determine the average abundance, test for significant differences in CPUE, and compare fishing gears, respectively. Simple handlines, bottom-set longlines, gillnets, and pamo gillnets are commonly used fishing gears. The various fishing gears caught a total of 60 species. Pamo gill net yielded the highest abundance (279,497), while the bottom-set longline was the lowest (541). Species diversity was low in bottom-set longlines (2.24) and gillnets (2.33), while very low in simple handlines (1.04) and pamo gillnets (.58). The low species diversity across gears suggests potential ecological pressure influenced by seasonality, fishing intensity, and gear selectivity. The Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) of the various fishing gears significantly differed. These findings provide baseline, gear-specific data that can inform municipal fisheries management and sustainable gear regulation in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur. The study recommends guiding fisherfolk on the sustainable use of fishing gear, conducting continuous monitoring to track changes in fish diversity, regulating fishing to reduce ecological impact, and developing sustainable fishing strategies.

Feasibility of Cogon Grass (Imperata cylindrica) and Corn Husk as Sustainable Materials for Food Packaging

Ma. Edlyn D. Castillo — 2025-12-31

The growing problem of plastic and wood-based packaging highlights the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. This study investigated the feasibility of utilizing agricultural residues as sustainable raw materials for producing biodegradable packaging. Aiming to address the environmental consequences of plastic and wood-based packaging, the research examined the durability, texture, and cost-effectiveness of materials derived from different proportions of cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica) and corn husk fibers. An experimental design was employed, with samples produced in 50:50, 60:40, and 40:60 ratios. Durability was assessed through load-bearing analysis, while 30 respondents, composed of local carinderia owners and customers, evaluated the texture using a 5-point Likert scale. Statistical tools, including mean, standard deviation, and one-way ANOVA, were used to analyze the data. Results showed that all samples demonstrated very good durability (overall mean = 0.79 kg) and a smooth-to-very smooth texture (overall mean = 4.09), with the 60% cogon grass–40% corn husk proportion yielding the most favorable results. No significant differences were found among the three mixtures, indicating similar performance across proportions. The production cost, ranging from ₱34.50 to ₱36.50 per batch, confirmed economic feasibility at the laboratory scale. The findings affirm that agricultural residues can be transformed into durable, low-cost, and eco-friendly packaging materials under controlled, dry-condition testing, contributing to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). This study provides experimental evidence on the use of composite non-wood fibers for biodegradable packaging, offering localized data relevant to sustainable materials development in the Philippine context. The study recommends further enhancement of fiber processing techniques, broader testing of mechanical properties, and policy integration under the Extended Producer Responsibility framework.

Bioconversion Of Food Waste Using Black Soldier (Hermetia illucens) Fly Larvae and African Nightcrawlers (Eudrilus eugeniae)

Ethan John R. Peruna — 2025-12-31

The global reliance on synthetic fertilizers and growing concern over food waste highlight the need for sustainable alternatives. Despite these concerns, synthetic fertilizers remain a cornerstone of agricultural practices. This study evaluates the bioconversion of food waste using Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) and African nightcrawlers (Eudrilus eugeniae), focusing on temperature, pH, humidity, macronutrients, and biomass conversion efficiency of the bioconverters using the following: T0 (control, no decomposers), T1 (100% BSFL), T2 (100% African nightcrawlers), and T3 (50% BSFL, 50% African nightcrawlers). Additionally, to determine whether a significant difference exists between and among the physicochemical properties in terms of temperature and pH levels of organic fertilizer. It utilized a 21-day experimental design to evaluate the compost’s physicochemical properties by monitoring temperature, pH, humidity, nutrient content, and biomass conversion. Food waste was collected and segregated, bioconverters were reared and applied to the treatment, and physical and chemical analyses were performed throughout the process. T1 showed the highest temperature range (29.2–35.2°C). T0, T1, and T2 produced pH values ranging from acidic to alkaline (5.21–7.75) and humidity levels of 42–77%. All treatments yielded very high nitrogen (>4.5%) and phosphorus (>20 ppm) and sufficient potassium (11–150 ppm). T3 had the highest biomass conversion efficiency (84.4%). Temperature, pH, and biomass conversion differed significantly among treatments at the 0.01 level. These results demonstrate that the bioconverters can provide a cost-effective, eco-friendly method for converting waste into fertilizer, thereby supporting broader adoption. Future research should evaluate fertilizer performance across various crops, assess cost-yield benefits, and conduct long-term environmental assessment of productivity.

Coastal Resource Conditions and Management Efforts in Sta. Catalina, Ilocos Sur: A Descriptive Assessment

Florida U. Ursulom — 2025-12-31

Degradation happened in the coastal barangays of the Municipality of Sta. Catalina, Ilocos Sur, despite positive efforts made in the Philippines. This study assessed the coastal barangay profile; socio-economic activities in the pelagic, offshore, and foreshore zones; the extent of degradation due to natural and artificial factors; and the extent of coastal barangays’ resource protection efforts. Descriptive research with 318 conveniently selected respondents, a structured questionnaire, interviews, documentary analysis, mapping, descriptive statistics, and Mean were utilized. Findings revealed the barangays with the greatest number of FARMC members, the highest population, the most fishing boats, the highest tax allocation, and the most government facilities. The socio-economic activity in the Pelagic zone is fishing; the same is true in the Offshore, with fry collections; and at the Foreshore are restobar, sari-sari stores, motor parts sellers, street food vendors, and others. The degradation of coastal resources is extensive, caused by natural and artificial factors; however, a very great extent of coastal resource protection efforts by organized bodies and residents exists, while it is high only among the LGU. The study provides localized, evidence-based insights that can guide municipal-level coastal resource management and policy formulation. The conclusion states that the coastal barangays of the Municipality of Sta. Catalina, Ilocos Sur, provides physical accessibility and socio-economic opportunities that may support tourism-related activities; the socio-economic activities in the pelagic, foreshore, and offshore zones serve as livelihoods for residents; and the organized bodies and residents are good contributors to coastal resource management. It is recommended that the LGU continue and take additional necessary steps, such as holding regular competitions to manage coastal resources, which cover cleanliness and attractions, to improve the coastal area's appeal to tourists, increase revenue, and provide residents and visitors with better services.

Development of a Low-Cost and Sustainable Biodiesel Reactor Using Waste Cooking Oil

Jansen John U. Costales — 2025-12-31

This study developed and evaluated a low-cost biodiesel batch reactor with an integrated washing system for processing waste cooking oil into biodiesel. The reactor was fabricated from locally available materials and designed to perform transesterification and water washing in the same vessel to reduce equipment requirements and simplify purification. Two catalyst systems, KOH and NaOH, were tested using identical volumes of waste cooking oil and methanol. The resulting biodiesel samples were analyzed for kinematic viscosity, specific gravity, and pour point following ASTM methods, and preliminary engine observations were conducted on a 12 HP diesel engine using different biodiesel blends. The KOH mixture produced slightly more biodiesel than the NaOH mixture, and both samples met the standard limits for viscosity and pour point. Specific gravity values were slightly below the ASTM range but remained close to acceptable limits for small-scale applications. Engine observations provided initial insights into smoke characteristics and fuel behavior, although the tests were qualitative and conducted without load. The cost comparison showed that the fabricated reactor was significantly more affordable than commercially available units, while offering a larger working capacity and built-in washing capability. The findings demonstrate the technical feasibility of producing biodiesel from waste cooking oil using an affordable, locally fabricated reactor and highlight its potential value for community-level fuel production. Further studies with controlled reaction conditions, replicated trials, and standardized engine testing are recommended to strengthen performance evaluation.

The Implementation of Dengue Prevention and Control Program of the Municipality of Pudtol, Province of Apayao, Philippines

Julieta B. Pilit — 2025-12-31

Dengue fever is a serious illness that affects everyone, particularly in regions lacking effective surveillance systems to monitor and respond to outbreaks. The data were analyzed using descriptive-correlational analysis. It determines the implementation of the dengue prevention and control program in Pudtol, Apayao, from January to December 2023. It also aimed to assess the significant relationship between the extent of implementation and the socio-demographic profiles of the implementers (Municipal Health Officers (MHOs)/Local Government Unit (LGU) personnel) and resident respondents. The socio-demographic profile of the respondents indicated that a large percentage were 42–47 years old, female, married, college graduates, and unskilled, earning below PHP 10,000. Significantly, the majority of respondents did not attend any related training or seminars. The findings concluded that the extent of implementation of the dengue prevention and control program, including personal hygiene, was rated "very much implemented". Surveillance, case management, and diagnosis of signs and symptoms, integrated vector management (IVM), outbreak response, health promotion, and advocacy were rated as "much implemented" only. The study found a significant relationship between program implementation and occupation, monthly income, educational attainment, and the number of relevant training programs or seminars attended. Based on these findings, the study recommends an action plan to reduce or eliminate dengue cases in Pudtol, Apayao. It promotes strict observance of hygiene practices and regular attendance at seminars and training sessions. The research provides significant data for the Department of Health, Municipal Health Office personnel, residents, and academe to enhance existing programs and policies on dengue prevention and control.

Sectoral Awareness of the Cybercrime Prevention Act Of 2012 (Ra 10175) in Bangued, Abra

Nydiel G. Tadeja — 2025-12-31

The tremendous growth in global web usage has significantly increased digital connectedness and the community's vulnerability to online fraud, cyberattacks, and other forms of online exploitation. Public awareness, grassroots comprehension, and frontline staff's ability to successfully enforce regulations continue to be severely lacking. This study evaluated the knowledge of Bangued inhabitants regarding the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, also known as RA 10175, with an emphasis on sociodemographics, information sources, online platform usage, ownership of ICT devices, and understanding of its provisions, punishable acts, and punishments. It also examined the relationship between profiles and levels of awareness, as well as their differences across areas. A mixed-methods Explanatory Sequential design was used to quantitatively collect data from 394 respondents: 123 from schools, 48 from the business sector, and 223 residents, selected through stratified random sampling using Slovin's formula. The qualitative part involved nine participants purposely selected to explain emerging patterns from which data was used to triangulate the initial quantitative findings. Results revealed that respondents were generally aware of the provisions of the law and the punishable acts; however, the respondents had a low understanding of the penalties, with residents consistently demonstrating the lowest awareness, and there was a significant relationship between educational attainment, age of the community respondents, and their level of awareness of RA 10175. It is recommended that this study provide localized, sector-specific evidence on awareness gaps in cybercrime legislation, which may inform community-based and sector-targeted cybercrime education initiatives, curriculum integration, and business compliance training to address identified gaps in awareness of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and to support evidence-based awareness initiatives in Bangued, Abra.

Knowledge and Implementation of the Barangay Information Network (BIN) Program as a Community Policing Mechanism in Abra

Romar G. Rojas — 2025-12-31

In the absence of proper collection, tracking, and implementation of local intelligence, community policing and the eventual security of citizens can hardly succeed. The other important program that connects the Philippine National Police (PNP) with community informants in the Philippines is the Barangay Information Network (BIN) program, which assists the police in promptly accessing crime prevention and reporting levels. This study assessed the level of knowledge among PNP personnel and BIN informants in the Province of Abra and assessed the realization of the BIN programs. The research design used was a descriptive-correlational design to investigate the level of knowledge among Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel and Barangay Information Network (BIN) informants, and to establish the level of BIN program implementation in the Province of Abra. The respondents included PNP employees from the Abra provincial intelligence unit, municipal police stations, and BIN informants from different barangays. The data collection was conducted using a validated researcher-designed questionnaire, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean scores, and bivariate correlation analysis. The result indicated that the degree of knowledge and programmed action was rated as Very High both by the PNP staff members and the informants of the BIN. The positive relationship between informants' knowledge and the level of program implementation was also strong across all areas, with meaningful results in overall knowledge and the reporting system. Although the overall results were encouraging, indicators such as insufficient network connections and insufficient training in database systems and safe reporting practices were the most frequent issues that influenced the program's effectiveness. Depending on the results, the researcher suggests more training for PNP personnel and BIN informants, and paying greater attention to information security, crime production, and the efficient use of intelligence systems. Feedback mechanisms and orientation programs should be enhanced to instill trust and ensure the accuracy and timeliness of reports. Continuous capacity-building, technical support, and active community engagement are also necessary to improve the long-term sustainability and impact of the BIN program. This study provides empirical, province-level evidence on how informant knowledge relates to the implementation of community-based intelligence programs, contributing to the literature on community policing and intelligence-led policing in rural Philippine contexts.

Spirituality and Anxiety Levels of Student Nurses in a Philippine University

Reyn Pearl B. Bersamin — 2025-12-31

Student nurses frequently experience clinical and academic demands that increase their susceptibility to anxiety, prompting the need to explore the aspects that support their emotional well-being. This study, using a descriptive-correlational approach, examined the relationship between spirituality and anxiety among student nurses. Randomly selected two hundred sixty-nine Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students from levels I to IV enrolled during the academic year 2023-2024, were the respondents of this study. A survey instrument containing socio-demographic questions, a spirituality scale, and the Test Anxiety Questionnaire was used to gather the data. To determine the relationship of spirituality to anxiety among student nurses, this study also examined the socio-demographic factors that may be associated with these variables. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were used in data analysis. The results revealed moderate levels of anxiety and high levels of spirituality. Socio-demographic factors (such as age, sex, and family structure) did not significantly correlate with either spirituality or anxiety levels, while there was a small positive association between spirituality and age. Additionally, the study yielded no significant correlation between spirituality and anxiety. These findings suggest that while spirituality remains an important personal resource, it may not independently predict anxiety levels among student nurses. The study recommends more research to dig deeper into the complexities of spirituality in managing academic and clinical anxiety. It also emphasizes the significance of employing holistic approaches to mental health in nursing education.

Administrative Capability and Commitment as Pathways to SDGs Localization in a Heritage City

Clare M. Arce — 2025-12-31

Recognizing the role of local governments in translating sustainable development goals into concrete local actions, this study examined how Vigan City has operationalized the UN SDGs within its local governance framework, leveraging the avenue afforded to local governments to translate global development goals into actionable local imperatives. The study determined the administrative capability and commitment of Vigan City in the localization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also addressed the city’s administrative capacity, commitment, and practices for coping with global sustainability frameworks and for localizing governance actions. The work was specifically focused on the city’s performance with respect to four selected goals: SDG #3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG #4 (Quality Education), SDG #11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG #16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). In addition, the best practices of the City of Vigan in localizing the Sustainable Development Goals as a model of effective and sustainable local governance were also considered. This study utilized the quantitative descriptive-correlational research design, adopting the survey questionnaire of Anicas (2020), and involved two groups of respondents: 384 residents of Barangays 1-9 and Tamag, and six key informants. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis, including mean and bivariate correlation, as well as a thematic analysis. Results showed that Vigan City has a high level of administrative capability and a high commitment to the localization of Sustainable Development Goals. Its best practices are Leadership and Governance, Inclusion and Capacity Development, Financial Management and Resource Mobilization, and Empowering Community and Well-being. These areas point out the city's commitment to participatory governance, openness, and, along with that, inclusive local development. Administrative capability significantly influences Vigan City's commitment to the localization of the SDGs. This study recommends that city officials maintain exemplary leadership toward sustainable development. The LGU may integrate SDGs into local policies to further enhance the city’s commitment. Moreover, achieving the SDG agenda requires LGU capacity and collaboration with other sectors. Future research may also explore additional variables and mechanisms to improve SDG evaluation strategies. This study provides empirical, city-level evidence on how administrative capacity and governance commitment interact to localize the SDGs in the context of a heritage city.

Seismic Performance Evaluation of an Irregular Five-Story Reinforced Concrete Building Under Various Shear Wall Placement Configurations Using Pushover Analysis

Mary Cesarius R. Dumalanta — 2025-12-31

Earthquakes pose significant risks to buildings in seismically active regions, and evaluating structural performance under lateral loads is essential, particularly for irregular buildings that are more susceptible to torsional effects and nonuniform deformation. This study contributes comparative evidence on the influence of shear wall placement on seismic response parameters of irregular reinforced concrete buildings using nonlinear pushover analysis. Structural parameters were modeled in ETABS v19 in accordance with ACI 318-19, AISC 360-10, and NSCP 2015. Pushover curves in both the X and Y directions were generated to identify first-hinge formation, performance-point capacities, plastic-hinge distribution, and performance indicators such as displacement demand, acceleration response, and fundamental period. Statistical tests (ANOVA and Post Hoc) were conducted to determine significant differences among the three designs. Findings show that the corner configuration achieved the highest base shear capacity but was more torsionally sensitive. The inner-center layout produced the largest displacements and longest time periods, indicating higher flexibility but reduced drift control. The outer-center configuration demonstrated the most balanced response, with efficient drift reduction, moderate stiffness, fewer critical hinges, and performance consistently within Immediate Occupancy limits. These results confirm that shear wall placement significantly influences structural behavior, especially in irregular building forms. Overall, the outer-center layout demonstrated the most balanced seismic response among the configurations assessed.

GRIT: A Developmental Study of a Gamified Fitness Application Integrating AI Technologies

Erice Justine P. Baay — 2025-12-31

Physical inactivity has become a major public health concern in modern society. As digital entertainment and mobile technologies continue to encourage a more sedentary lifestyle, many people find it challenging to integrate adequate physical exercise into their busy daily schedules. Over time, physical inactivity has resulted in poor physical health. Addressing such issues calls for innovative approaches to make exercise more enjoyable and accessible. Hence, this study aimed to develop GRIT, a fitness application that integrates AI technologies and is primarily designed to provide personalized recommendations, gamification, progress monitoring, and image processing for pose detection, offering AI-supported features to support home-based fitness activities. The application was developed using the Rapid Application Development (RAD) Model, and its quality was evaluated using the ISO/IEC 25010 software quality model, focusing on functionality, performance, compatibility, usability, dependability, and maintainability. Functionality scored the highest. The application has these key functionalities: gamification elements, such as points, levels, badges, streaks, daily goals, and progress bars; personalized recommendation that tailors fitness activities to individual preferences, body data, and progress history, ensuring; progress tracking that monitors steps, muscle level, and other health metrics; and authentication requirement to ensure secure login and cloud synchronization. The results of the study confirm GRIT's potential as a high-quality, innovative fitness tool. Overall, this study contributes to the field of fitness application development by demonstrating how to integrate and evaluate AI-driven personalization, gamification systematically, and pose detection using the ISO/IEC 25010 software quality framework.

Work Environment and Workload as Correlates of Intent to Leave Among Nurses

Matt Joseph T. Cabanting — 2025-12-31

The healthcare system is facing challenges it has never seen before: more complex patients and fewer workers. This study examined the relationships among nurses' work environment, workload, and intention to leave. Using a descriptive-correlational approach, 419 nurses from government hospitals in the northern Philippines were surveyed using the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index (PES-NWI), the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX), and a three-item intent-to-leave scale. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to analyze the relationships between the different variables. There was a significant negative correlation (r = .252) between nurses' intention to leave and the overall work environment. The strongest correlation (r =- .261) was found between turnover intentions and staffing and resource adequacy. Recently, a statistically insignificant direct correlation was found between high perceived workload and the intention to leave (r =- .074), suggesting a more complex relationship than is generally believed. The findings suggest that better work environments tend to make nurses stay. Furthermore, workplace factors, specifically staffing and resource levels, play a significant role in nurse retention. The non-significant result for workload implies that its influence may be indirectly mediated by factors such as burnout. This study is significant because it identifies specific, achievable areas that hospital administration could focus on to improve retention. Future research should examine the mediating factors of workload and expand the study to different healthcare settings to validate these findings.

Implementation, Effectiveness, and Community Satisfaction of the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030 in the Province of Abra

Jane Roxanne A. Damian — 2025-12-31

Effective law enforcement plays a crucial role in promoting peace, order, and good governance. This study assessed the satisfaction of the Advisory Groups for Police Transformation and Development (AGPTD) in Abra and evaluated the efficacy and implementation of the Philippine National Police Peace and Order Agenda for Transformation and Upholding of the Rule of Law 2030 (PNP P.A.T.R.O.L Plan 2030), and evaluated the level of satisfaction among Abra's Advisory Groups for Police Transformation and Development (AGPTD). It also examined the relationship between crime rates, community satisfaction, and the plan's execution. Surveys and crime statistics from Abra PPO records were used to collect data from 427 AGPTD members using a descriptive-correlational design. The results showed that the majority of respondents were married, middle-aged, male, college graduates, and longtime Abra residents. High levels of satisfaction with police services and community involvement indicated that the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L Plan 2030 was fully implemented and very effective. Early on, crime rates varied, but in more recent times, they have been steadily declining. The execution of the plan, the decrease in crime, and community satisfaction were found to be significantly correlated. The findings indicate that higher levels of implementation and perceived effectiveness of the PNP P.A.T.R.O.L. Plan 2030 are associated with lower crime rates and higher levels of community satisfaction in the Province of Abra. This study contributes localized empirical evidence on police reform implementation by integrating stakeholder perceptions with crime trend analysis within a provincial Philippine context.

Health Practices and Socio-Demographic Correlates Among the Indigenous Peoples of Sitio Kinbilibil, Barangay Daligan, Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur

Justine Robert V. Amigo — 2025-12-31

Indigenous health practices remain an essential aspect of community well-being, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Understanding these practices is vital for developing culturally sensitive healthcare interventions. This study examined the health practices of Indigenous Peoples in Sitio Kinbilibil, Barangay Daligan, Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur, and explored the relationship between their health behaviors and socio-demographic profile. Using a descriptive-correlational research design, the study employed total enumeration, involving 49 Indigenous Peoples aged 18 years and above. Data were gathered through a modified instrument based on Yang-ed et al. (2009). Frequency and percentages were used to describe the socio-demographic profiles, mean scores assessed the extent of health practices, and simple correlational analysis was used to determine relationships between variables. Results showed that most respondents were aged 18-38 years old, female, married, high school graduates, affiliated with the Pentecostal church, and earning less than Php 5,000 monthly, with business as their primary source of income. In terms of health practices, respondents sometimes used traditional remedies, occasionally consulted professional health providers for common health conditions, and seldom sought medical care for self-care concerns. A significant finding was that religious affiliation, specifically Pentecostal, was correlated with respondents’ overall health practices. The study underscores the importance of recognizing the cultural context influencing indigenous health behaviors. Documenting these practices contributes to the preservation of indigenous knowledge and supports the development of culturally grounded health programs to improve health outcomes. This study contributes empirical, community-level evidence on indigenous health practices in Ilocos Sur, addressing the limited documentation of health behaviors among geographically isolated Indigenous Peoples.

LaSEEnem: Development and Quality Evaluation of a Museum Relic Recognition Application Using Convolutional Neural Networks

Marc Anjelou M. Galleta — 2026-01-08

Culture and heritage are important aspects of historical places like Vigan City, which is surrounded by museums to preserve and enliven the city’s antiquity. In this study, the researchers investigated the difficulties that the museums of Vigan City encounter: traffic congestion and lengthy visitor lines, and the congested area that causes accidents and destroys the artifacts kept. Due to the conventional nature of the exhibition setup and the traditional communication style used for presenting the collections, museums had to keep their audiences engaged by closely examining innovative ways to employ technology to enhance their art collections. The researchers intended to develop LaSEEnem, a museum relic recognition application for selected museums of Vigan City. The researchers used descriptive and developmental designs to gather information needed to develop LaSEEnem. Furthermore, to develop the proposed application, the researchers used the Rapid Application Development (RAD) Model and the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). The developed system was evaluated using the ISO 25010 evaluation tool. The results reflected a mean of 4.26, indicating that the system is Highly Acceptable as a digital tool intended to support artifact recognition and information access during museum visits. This study contributes to the growing body of research on AI-assisted cultural heritage applications by demonstrating the feasibility of integrating CNN-based image recognition with a mobile museum guide evaluated through the ISO 25010 quality model.