JGB 18202

“Research Skills: An Employability Enabler?”

Eric S. Parilla, DBA, FBE / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Research Skills, Employability, Structural Equation Modelling, Dynamic Employability Model

Abstract

"Research Skills: An Employability Enabler?" focuses on the growing significance of research skills in determining one's employability. This study examines the relationship between an individual's research skills and their opportunities in the competitive labor market. This quantitative study employs Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the influence of research skills, including time management, critical thinking, and information gathering, on employability. The study draws data from a sample of small and medium enterprise owners, entrepreneurs, and HR managers in the Ilocos Region of the Philippines. The results highlight the strong positive connections between these abilities and the likelihood of getting employment, with particular focus on the importance of communication and note-taking. The study introduces the Dynamic Employability Model (DEM), which promotes the flexible use of research skills to enhance employability despite restrictions related to regional emphasis and the changing employment markets. The DEM proposes a revolutionary method for educational institutions and enterprises to develop and give importance to these skills. The purpose of this research is to impact the design of curriculum and professional training, ensuring that they are in line with the current demands of the workforce.

JGB 18208

The Impact of Influencer's Contents on the Purchasing Decision of the College of Business and Accountancy Students in Manila

Kelvin Roy Farao, Marianne Gongora, Darwin Idhao, Janna Lee Llamas, Jiroh Lazaro, & Dr. Jayvie O. Guballo / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Influencers Content, Purchasing Decision, Social Media

Abstract

Social media has completely revolutionized communication and interaction, giving rise to a new trend: influencers. These content creators share their reviews, educational materials, and lifestyle content, significantly shaping consumer choices. The primary purpose of this study is to assess the factors that influence the purchasing decisions of college students in Manila. Using convenience sampling, 385 college students enrolled in business programs were surveyed. The findings revealed no significant differences in purchasing decisions based on age, civil status, or year level. However, gender and program of study, particularly among Marketing Management students, had a significant impact, especially in Marketing Management. The researchers recommend that companies shape campaigns to the preferences of young adults, particularly females in this age group, to increase their chances of capturing the attention and influencing the purchasing decisions of the market. Additionally, it is highly suggested that influencer content should be enhanced to reflect authenticity and build stronger connections to their audience.

JGB 18209

Wearable Fitness Devices and the Filipino Consumers: An Academic Review and Classification

Dr. Luz Suplico Jeong / Read Full Paper

Keywords

WFDs, good health and well-being,  technology, health empowerment

Abstract

Wearable fitness devices (WFDs)  refer to devices that can be worn to collect health-related information. WFDs include smartwatches, fitness trackers, sports watches, blood pressure monitors, etc. Although WFDs are essential in healthcare management, there have been very few studies that explore the acceptance of these devices. This study provides an academic review of the academic articles on the use of wrist- WFDs by Filipino consumers during the period 2000- September 2024. It aims to contribute to the limited literature on the acceptance of WFDs. The author searched the publications on WFDs and Filipino consumers using Google, Scopus, and databases in the DLSU Library. These databases include EBSCO Premier, JSTOR, Philippine e-journals, ProQuest Online, etc. The search used the following keywords: WFDs,  activity trackers, Internet of Things and wearable health technology, Smartwatches, etc. The search yielded articles classified according to the journal type,  theories/models used, and managerial implications. The key message in these articles stress that WFDs offer Filipino consumers health empowerment. Thus, WFDs are essential in the future of healthcare.

JGB 18211

Social Capital and Resilience Among Fair Trade and Non-Fair-Trade Farmers

Dr. Reynaldo Jr Bautista / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Resilience, Fair Trade, Social Capital

Abstract

This study investigates the relationships between social capital dimensions and Resilience among coconut farmers in the province of Quezon, Philippines. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), the analysis reveals that Cohesion and Inclusion, Collective Action, Groups and Networks, and Trust and Solidarity have significant positive relationships with Resilience. However, Empowerment, Political Action, and Information and Communication have insignificant relationships with Resilience. The findings suggest that fostering social cohesion, encouraging collective Action, strengthening groups and networks, and promoting trust and solidarity can contribute to farmers' Resilience. Recommendations include focusing on initiatives that promote these social capital dimensions, supporting programs that strengthen farmer groups and networks, conducting further research to investigate the insignificant relationships, and disseminating the findings to relevant stakeholders. This study highlights the importance of social capital in promoting Resilience among coconut farmers and informs policies and interventions aimed at building more resilient and sustainable farming communities.

JGB 18213

“The Acceptability of Malunggay (Moringa Oleifera) Cookies”

Cherry Joy V. Sulit / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Malunggay, Cookies, Acceptability, Healthy Alternatives

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the level of acceptability of the malunggay cookies in terms of appearance, texture, aroma, and taste when respondents were taken as a whole and grouped according to sex and type of respondents. The experimental research design was used to conduct the study. The respondents of this study consisted of (7) bakers, (20) students, and (10) faculty members of St. Therese MTC Colleges. For the data gathering, a questionnaire was made containing the different levels of concentration of the malunggay cookies with treatment 1 (10 grams), treatment 2 (15 grams), and treatment 3 (20 grams) of fresh malunggay leaves, respectively. Mean, Dependent T-test, Post Hoc Test, and One-Way ANOVA were used in statistical tools. The significance level of is 0.05 used as acceptance or rejection of the null hypothesis.

Findings revealed that the level of acceptability of the experimental research variable, namely Treatment 1, 2, 3, and Controlled, was Very Highly Acceptable in terms of appearance. Treatments 1, 2, and Controlled were Very Highly Acceptable, while Treatment 3 was Highly Acceptable regarding texture. All treatments and controls were Highly acceptable in terms of aroma. Treatments 1, 2, and Controlled were Very Highly Acceptable, while Treatment 3 was Highly Acceptable regarding taste. Treatment 1, Malunggay cookies concentrated (10) grams of Malunggay leaves, was included as a very highly acceptable product.

Malunggay cookies can help address global malnutrition and support sustainable agriculture while meeting the growing global demand for health-conscious, functional foods. The researchers suggest future researchers explore the use of malunggay leaves not only as a flavor or additive in cookies but also in other products.

JGB 18214

Acceptability of Avocado as an Additive to Pandesal

Abigail Lopez, Jerry D. Avergonzado, & Glaiza Mhee Gaurana / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Acceptability, Avocado, Additive, Pandesal

Abstract

This study determined the level of acceptability of Avocado in three different proportions as an additive to Pandesal. A significant difference between the controlled treatment and the different proportions of Avocado was also measured. Forty-four respondents, who were Hospitality students and faculty members of the college and professional bakers within Iloilo City, were selected through purposive sampling. An evaluation checklist was used to gather data, and statistical tools included the Mean, Frequency, Standard Deviation, and One-way ANOVA.

Findings showed that Treatment B was the Most Highly Acceptable regarding appearance, taste, and texture, while Treatment C was the Most Highly Acceptable regarding aroma. Among the groups, the hospitality management students evaluated Treatment B as the most highly acceptable regarding appearance, aroma, taste, and texture. Similarly, the Faculty/ Culinary Instructors evaluated Treatment B as the Most Highly Acceptable regarding appearance, taste, and texture; however, regarding aroma, Treatment C was the Most Highly Acceptable. The bakers evaluated Treatment C as the Most Highly Acceptable regarding appearance and aroma, while Treatment B was the Most Highly Acceptable regarding taste and texture. No significant differences were found in the level of acceptability of Avocado as an additive to Pandesal in terms of appearance, aroma, and texture. However, there was a significant difference in terms of taste.

Finally, Treatment B, with a 30% avocado concentration, was the Most Highly Acceptable product in terms of appearance, aroma, taste, and texture.

As a recommendation, Avocado pandesal should be introduced to the community through outreach activities with the adopted barangay to encourage its production.

JGB 1817

BrewQen: Evaluating Usability in Mapping Benguet Coffee Farms for Traceability of Benguet Coffee

Eliza Joyce Palaroan, Ma. Araceli Tambol, Kasima Rose Mendoza, & Josephine Dela Cruz / Read Full Paper

Keywords

BrewQen, Usability, Android Application, Benguet Coffee Traceability, Agricultural Management

Abstract

This study evaluated the usability of BrewQen, an Android mobile application designed to enhance coffee traceability and authenticity by mapping Benguet Coffee Farms and managing detailed farming data. BrewQen facilitates the documentation of farming practices, processing methods, estimated yields, and harvest periods for each coffee farm, contributing to transparency and quality assurance in the coffee supply chain.

The study employed the Input-Process-Output (IPO) framework to structure the research methodology. The input phase involves the collection of user requirements, existing data on Benguet Coffee Farms, and preliminary user feedback. Researchers introduced the mobile application to the participants and guided them in interacting with BrewQen. After trying out the different features of the application, feedback was gathered through the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire. During the process phase, the SUS scores were analyzed to identify design enhancements and determine additional functionalities needed. The analysis focused on user interactions, pain points, and suggestions to improve the application's usability and overall user experience. The output phase provided a refined set of design specifications, a prioritized list of new features, perceived usability, and a roadmap for future development.

Preliminary results indicated that BrewQen has received an SUS score of 80, which can be interpreted as excellent. This means users find it particularly effective in documenting and managing farm details and easy to use. However, the users emphasized simplifying the data entry process. Data visualization was among the few additional features identified.

The findings contribute to not only advancing mobile technology but, more importantly, addressing one of the main problems of Philippine Coffee: coffee traceability and sustainable agriculture. This study likewise serves as a reference for future developments in similar contexts.

JGB 18218

“Unpacking the Impact: Social Media Influencer Advertising Effectiveness and Purchase Intentions"

Era Jose Rommel B., & Guillen Nelson / Read Full Paper

Keywords

SMI, credibility, attractiveness, product match-up, meaning transfer, purchase intention

Abstract

Given the considerable influence of social media influencers (SMIs) as brand endorsers, businesses increasingly embrace the social media trend. They compete to capture the most attention through digital campaigns and communications. This study zeroes in on the marketing strategy of FPC, a sizeable Philippine poultry integrator with an estimated annual revenue of approximately PHP 2 billion. FPC, boasting over 300,000 social media followers across various platforms, emphasizes the influence of its online influencer's advertising effectiveness (AE) on consumer attitude (CA) and purchase intention (PI) toward the FPC brand. The study identifies source credibility (SC), source attractiveness (SA), product match-up (PMU), and meaning transfer (MT) as predictors of PI, with CA assessed as a potential mediator in this dynamic. Utilizing purposive quota sampling, data were gathered from 251 middle-income mothers residing in Metro Manila, Philippines. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to explore the relationship between AE and PI, while mediation tests examined whether CA mediates this relationship. The findings reveal that SC and SA significantly affect PI, whereas PMU and MT do not.

Moreover, CA is shown to mediate the effects of SC and SA on PI significantly. This research aligns with and validates the existing literature in this field, as recent studies have reported similar findings (e.g., Lou & Yuan, 2021; Tafesse & Wood, 2021; Jin, 2022). The study concludes with recommendations, implications, and suggestions for future research.

JGB 18220

Decoding the Millennial Thumb: Factors Influencing the Effectiveness of Grab Food’s In-App Ads

Joanna Benitez, Patricia Timbol & Yoshiko Yanase / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Mobile Advertising, Millennial consumers, Advertising effectiveness, In-app advertising, Online consumer behavior

Abstract

In the crowded digital landscape, capturing the attention of millennial consumers is a significant challenge for advertisers, especially in food delivery apps. Millennials, a key demographic with high digital engagement and purchasing power, are overwhelmed with numerous ads and content, making it difficult for any single ad to stand out. This study examines the factors influencing millennial clicking behavior in response to in-app advertising within the Grab Food app. By focusing on structural elements (e.g., ad format, placement) and semantic content (e.g., relevance, creativity) and using an online survey and binary logistic regression analysis of 207 millennial respondents in Metro Manila, the research identifies that to optimize ad performance, advertisers should prioritize an ad's entertainment value, congruity with the app, and similarity to the background structure while addressing concerns about data privacy. These factors significantly influence millennials' clicking behavior, offering valuable insights for app developers and advertisers aiming to enhance their in-app advertising strategies.

JGB 18222

The Digital Marketing Edge in the Industrial Supply Market of the Philippines: A Case Study of Hayai Industrial Tools Supply Corp.

John Philip Argonia, Clifford Sia, Lia Consuelo San Mateo, & John Iñaki Torres / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Digital Marketing, Industrial Supply, SMEs, Social Media Marketing, Customer Engagement

Abstract

This study examines the efficacy of digital marketing strategies in the industrial supply market, focusing on Hayai Industrial Tools Supply Corp., a relatively new entrant in the Philippine market. The research employs a Usage, Attitude, and Image (UAI) survey methodology to investigate customer preferences and perceptions regarding digital marketing efforts in the industrial supply industry. The study utilizes a theoretical framework combining resource-based theory and relationship-based network theory to elucidate the dynamics influencing SME performance and competitive advantage in digital marketing contexts.

The findings reveal a strong preference for digital marketing channels among industrial supply customers, with 86.8% of respondents emphasizing the importance of an online presence. Social media emerged as a particularly effective platform, with 92.6% of respondents agreeing on its efficacy for product information dissemination.

Content preferences lean towards informative and practical material, with 63.2% of respondents expressing interest in product durability demonstrations and 55.9% favouring tutorials. The research also indicates a need for diversification in digital marketing efforts, suggesting expansion into platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

JGB 18223

From Thrifted to Treasured: Building Brand Love for Re-Clothing A Quantitative Research

Martin Luigi Lagustan, Camille Joyce Lita, Lovely Ann Loteria, & Nadia Lei Macaya / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Upcycled fashion, Scarcity messaging, Perceived value, Limited-quantity scarcity, Limited-time scarcity

Abstract

Despite its eco-friendly mission, Re Clothing, a sustainable fashion brand revitalizing secondhand garments, needs help scaling its operations. This research investigates the potential of scarcity messaging within an Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) campaign to enhance consumer perceived value and drive sales, aligning with the Perceived Value Theory and the Scarcity Principle. While scarcity messaging is prevalent in online retail, its effectiveness in sustainable fashion remains unexplored. The findings of this study suggest that limited-quantity scarcity (LQS) messaging is more effective than limited-time scarcity (LTS) in driving purchase intention for Re Clothing's limited-edition products. While perceived value did not significantly differ between products with scarcity messaging and general products, LQS messaging created a sense of urgency and exclusivity.

JGB 18224

Boosting Brand Awareness for a Matcha Café in Metro Manila: A Strategic Marketing Plan Utilizing the Pirate Funnel Framework

Juan Miguel Paulo Calaguian, France Lizette Capellan, & Evangelica Duran / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Cafe industry in the Philippines, Matcha, Consumer behavior and preference, AARRR, Integrated marketing communications

Abstract

This research aims to understand the behaviors and preferences of coffee shop patrons in Metro Manila to develop a comprehensive marketing plan for Matcha Later, a unique matcha café in Makati City. By leveraging social media and public relations strategies and informed by insights from a survey of 203 respondents, the plan seeks to drive effective decision-making and communication.

The plan will be based on utilizing the Pirate Funnel, also known as AARRR, which stands for Acquisition, Activation, Retention, Referral, and Revenue framework. The objective is to craft targeted social media campaigns on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to engage potential customers. Through innovative social media efforts and impactful public relations, the strategy intends to position Matcha Later as a leading player in the local market, increase brand awareness, build customer loyalty, and drive business growth. A mix of social media and public relations initiatives can create a strong brand presence, attract foot traffic, and foster a community of loyal matcha enthusiasts.

JGB 18225

Extroverted Introverts: A Qualitative Study of Personality Traits of Self-employed Public Practice Accountants in New Zealand

Valerie Poss, & Darlyn L. Chutuape / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Public practice accountants, Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial traits, Personality traits, Entrepreneurial personality, Accountant entrepreneurs

Abstract

Global changes and the ever-expanding role of technology have left their mark on professional practice in these modern times. The accountant's role has expanded beyond preparing financial statements and tax returns to that of a business advisor. In addition, there has been a growing trend of accountants shifting from full-time employment to establishing their independent practice, giving rise to an increasing number of accountant entrepreneurs. Literature suggests the link between personality traits, such as extroversion, self-efficacy, innovativeness, internal locus of control, and entrepreneurial tendencies. However, more research is needed on the personality traits of accountants who have successfully founded their accounting firms. This study explored the personality traits of accountants who have successfully transitioned from full-time employment to independent practice. This study employed an exploratory design by interviewing six accountants from the Bay of Plenty area of New Zealand who operated their flourishing accounting practice. The thematic analysis produced vital themes such as adaptability, taking charge of their destinies, willingness to take advantage of opportunities, self-efficacy, and strong communication skills. This research has the potential to contribute to the current body of literature on accounting entrepreneurship as there is a relative paucity of research in this area and amongst New Zealand accountants. Findings from this research could also guide accountants in evaluating their internal traits, exploring the potential for a rewarding alternative career path, and expanding the horizons of accounting practice.

JGB 18226

Enhancing SAMCIS Enrollment Experience using Chatbot Technology: A Case Study

Nathaniel C. Binuluyan, Geoff Anthony Dulnuan, Cassandra B. Narvasa, Bernard Carlo Pacis, Genrev L. Roque, Jarod Daniel P. Pigoh, Jose Enrico M. Viado, Kahlen Mark B. Vicente, Yuen Ka Hang Christian, & Josephine Dela Cruz / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Enrollment Concerns, Chatbot Technology, Natural Language Processing, Artificial Intelligence, BERT Architecture

Abstract

Enrollment processes in private tertiary institutions in the Philippines have historically relied on manual methods, leading to delays and inefficiencies. Despite transitioning to online enrollment, server downtime persists, especially during high-demand periods. This study explores integrating artificial intelligence, specifically chatbots powered by natural language processing (NLP), to enhance enrollment communication at Saint Louis University (SLU). Chatbots simulate human-like conversations to assist users across platforms using machine learning algorithms, offering personalized enrollment guidance and improving communication between students and the registrar. This research focuses on developing a chatbot to address common enrollment queries, using a dataset from SLU's official channels and augmented for robustness. The study includes dataset collection, preprocessing, and augmentation, followed by the development and training of a BERT-based chatbot model. Evaluation metrics like accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score assessed the model's performance in categorizing enrollment-related inquiries accurately. The chatbot was integrated into a web-based interface using Python and Flask, facilitating user interaction and testing. The research produced a dataset with 53 intent classifications and 184863 request patterns. Results also indicate the chatbot's promising performance in providing accurate and timely responses, at 0.99 and 1.00 across all evaluation metrics for train and test, respectively, demonstrating its potential to alleviate administrative burdens and enhance user experience during enrollment periods. Consequently, this study emphasizes the transformative potential of AI-driven chatbots in improving efficiency and user satisfaction within educational institutions, paving the way for future innovations in student services.

JGB 18227

Image Forgery Detection for Counterfeit Money Using Philippine Peso Currency

Hans Lloyd A. Reyes, Aeronn Charles Camza, Derek Isabelo, Justin Louie Lo, Joaquin Raphael Decena, & Josephine Dela Cruz / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Counterfeit Money, Counterfeiting, Philippine Money, Counterfeit Money Detection, Deep Learning

Abstract

Counterfeit money is rampant in today's generation, wherein the actions done by individuals and groups affect the economy and the circulation of bills from one nation to another. Due to this problem, small businesses and vendors are being affected by counterfeiting. The researchers devised a mobile application compatible with the Android operating system with a minimal storage capacity requirement to make counterfeit detection accessible to all. Specifically: (1) We collected and annotated the dataset to be fed to our model, (2) the model was trained using Ultralytics, YOLOv8n, and utilizes a PyTorch framework, and (3) we utilized the android application developer using Kotlin programming languages to create the application and integrate the model solely for detecting the genuinity of the Philippine money. The mobile applications were tested for both genuine and counterfeit and, therefore, provided an accurate result. The researchers, therefore, came up with the findings where mAP is 98.3%, Precision is 97.6%, and recall is 98.7%. The application will be accessible to the community.

JGB 18228

Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Beekeeping: Automated Hive Monitoring System

Gregg Andres Balagtey, Ryeth Ezyrhee Bosaing, Ezrha Leigh Dangilan, Josephine Dela Cruz, Alastair Zeph De Guzman, Brent Arielle Escuadro, John Andrei Marquez, Kobe Angelo Rosales, & Jarvis Dean Zarate / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Automated Hive Monitoring, YOLOv8 Deep Learning, Beekeeping Technology, Real-Time Monitoring, Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

This study investigates using the YOLOv8 deep learning model for automated monitoring of bee activity to improve hive health and sustainability. Honeybees are vital for ecosystems and agriculture, but declining populations highlight the need for better monitoring techniques. Traditional manual observations are labor-intensive and often need more detail. This research evaluates YOLOv8's accuracy in detecting and tracking bees, utilizing the Ultralytics library and optimizing detection through image segmentation and bounding box annotation. Field applications, including YouTube live streams, demonstrated high accuracy with a 96% identification rate, 0.956 average precision, and F1 scores above 0.92 at 50% confidence. The real-time system effectively captured bee movements, indicating its potential for enhancing beekeeping through early issue detection. This AI-driven approach supports bee conservation, sustainable agriculture, and valuable pollinator research, showcasing YOLOv8's role in promoting ecological and agricultural sustainability.

JGB 18229

Investigating Consumers’ Purchase Intent Drivers from Cow’s Milk to Plant-Based Milk, Evidence in Vitasoy Marketing Campaign via Multiple Regression Models

Marc Lauder De Guzman, David S. Jose, Noel Sajid Murad, Valerie Hannah Torre, Elysha Marie Macatangay, & Mark Brian Aguilar / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Vitasoy, Plant-Based Milk, Utilitarian, Marketing, Multiple Regression, SDG12

Abstract

This paper investigates the factors influencing consumer conversion from cow's milk to plant-based milk in the Philippines. Drawing on the Theory of Consumption Values (TCV), we explored how hedonistic, utilitarian, and symbolic motivations impact purchase intentions. This research surveyed the participants and core question sets using the Likert scale. This study tested the hypotheses using multiple ordinal and multiple linear regression only after rank transformation; all regression calculations are done via the reputable R programming with the R package “ordinal” and “latest," respectively. Findings established that Filipino milk consumers are still primarily driven by two of the consumer above values and support the contemporary marketing research that there is a demand-gap opportunity in the Philippines after convincing the market. There are two significant aspects of this research in the literature: first, it contributes to the understanding of consumer behavior towards plant-based milk, and second, it provides a unique perspective by examining Vitasoy's marketing campaign within the Philippine market context. With the growing milk consumption and shrinking cow’s milk production globally, the application of this paper will contribute to the world by providing producers and marketers a framework on how to convince consumers to shift their purchasing patterns from cow's milk to viable and more nutritious plant-based milk. This paper supports the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 12.

JGB 18230

“Decoupling from the Dollar: The Impact of a Saudi Arabia Oil-Trade Currency Shift”

Mike Gerald David, & Raul Gabriel Mallari / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Petrodollar, Petroleum, Philippine economy, Oil trade, and BRICS

Abstract

The U.S. Dollar (USD) remains the most widely used currency globally. More particularly, in this matter, it is used in trading one of the world's most important commodities–petroleum. Since the 1970s, crude oil has been quoted predominantly in the greenback. This convention has helped maintain the financial dominance of the USD and paved the way to what is now known as the "Petrodollar," as petroleum trade was done almost exclusively through the USD, facilitating a more robust financial framework for the United States. Current times, however, show changes in this situation as oil-producing nations from the Middle East transition away from the USD-based petro-trade towards using other currencies. This move has since gained support from other States, mainly Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, collectively known as BRICS. This study investigates the potential implications of the divergence of the international petroleum trade from the U.S. Dollar, mainly on the petroleum industry and the general Philippine economy. This system is highly involved with the U.S. Dollar through international trade, remittances, foreign debt, and other economic activities. Replacing the Petrodollar in the world oil market will cause cheaper foreign loan payments, lower import prices, and more export options, which might all be advantageous for the Philippines. The USD's depreciation might adversely impact remittances from overseas Filipino workers and USD-based transactions, essential to the nation's GDP and GNP.

JGB 18232

Customer Satisfaction with Robots as Service Providers in Restaurants

Evelyn D. Villalon, LPT, MAEd, Menandro T. Manalo, DBA, Joan Valerie G. Javier, MAEd, MSHM, Angelo B. Base, John Bennette V. Quintana, Rann Jervis D. Jarana, Justine J. Arquero, & Jefferson C.Quiñones / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Robots, Quality of service, Restaurants, Importance-performance analysis,Satisfaction

Abstract

As the Philippine restaurant industry gradually integrates robots into service roles, more scholarly studies need to address the quality of service delivered by these robots. Assessing the importance and performance of key attributes of these service robots is imperative to pinpoint areas requiring enhancement, thereby optimizing customer satisfaction. Consequently, customers of restaurants employing robots as service providers were surveyed using an adapted instrument by El-said and Hajri, 2022 to evaluate the importance and performance of attributes of service robots such as perceived usefulness, ease of use, enjoyment, speed of service, and trustworthiness. Using the Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) Model developed by Martilla and James (1977), the study found that customers ascribe significant importance to all attributes and perceive robots to perform well. Results further provide evidence of customer satisfaction. Consistent prominence of the enjoyment attribute among customers is noteworthy—for them, it is the most important where robots are perceived to excel, thereby yielding the highest satisfaction level.

Conversely, service speed could be more critical and low performance, resulting in lower satisfaction. At α = 0.05, findings show no significant disparity between customers' ascribed importance and performance evaluations, with significant correlations between importance and satisfaction, as well as performance and satisfaction. Applying the IPA Model categorizes the service quality provided by robots across the five attributes into Quadrant I, indicating the necessity for maintaining the excellent performance of service quality delivered by robots as this technology may soon globally revolutionize various aspects of the hospitality industry.

JGB 18235

Fintech Adoption of Microfinance Institutions: Benefits and Challenges

Michelle Brendy C. Ocampo Tan / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Financial technology, Microfinance institutions, Financial innovation

Abstract

The banking sector in the Philippines is relatively underdeveloped and will need to adapt to a fast-changing market. Digital innovation, such as financial technology, is crucial for financial institutions to address the needs and demands of customers. Even in this age of globalization, about 30% of the world population, according to the World Bank, has no access to finance. The role of fintech adoption of microfinance institutions (MFIs) considers the unique needs and structure in order to serve the poor and the unbanked, and it has the potential to help millions of people globally emerge from poverty. Financial inclusion may not be explicitly addressed by a single Sustainable Development Goal (SDG); rather, it plays a vital role in achieving all of the SDGs. The study explores the literature on fintech adoption by MFIs to understand the benefits and challenges of such a phenomenon within the microfinance sector. The development of financial technology (fintech) is grounded in information and communication technology (ICT), driven by financial innovation, and secured by financial regulations. The microfinance sector has been significantly transformed by ICT, leading to changes in its scope and operations. Not only does fintech adoption improve the operational management of MFIs, it also extends their reach in terms of social and sustainability goals. The failure rate of fintech applications is high, and factors such as inadequate infrastructure, literacy, and regulations have been found to compound the challenges faced by MFIs in adopting fintech. The paper is in the initial stage of research and will contribute to the body of knowledge related to fintech adoption of MFIs in future research.

JGB 18236

Assistive Technologies Aiding Reading Problems of Students with Inattentive ADHD: A Systematic Literature Review

Randy Domantay, Ramdale Gabriel Adan, Cristian Dave Barcellano, Mariella Bañez, Danielle Nicole Javier, Gian Arthur Madarang, Xerxes Kyron Opalec, Paul Andre Pangilinan, & Fiona Dimple Pereira / Read Full Paper

Keywords

ADHD, Text Summarization, BERT Models, Transformers, Reading Problems

Abstract

There is a growing understanding of neurodevelopmental issues and their impact on academic performance in the Philippines. The systematic review of the literature analyzes the requirements and approaches for assisting the inattentive element of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that causes difficulties with reading. The PICOC Framework defines the research question and scope of the study. The method proposed to ease the reading problem emphasizes the benefits of text summary. Several studies have shown that text summarizing tools can help children with ADHD focus and understand more effectively. It demonstrates that appropriately summarized learning content can achieve learning objectives. Understanding how the features of an assistive tool and application help these learners overcome unique obstacles such as maintaining attention, managing impulsivity, and developing executive function abilities. The assistive tools can be used in special education services, potentially changing the educational approach for students with reading problems.

JGB 18241

Smart Parking of the IoT for Smart Cities: A Review of Related Literature

Chen, Lijun / Read Full Paper

Keywords

Internet of Things, Smart City, Smart Parking

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) transforms various sectors by enabling machine-to-machine (M2M) communication and connecting devices.  One significant application of IoT is in developing smart cities, where IoT technology improves infrastructure, transportation systems, waste management, and overall quality of life.

Through a systematic literature review and analysis, this paper evaluates the existing innovative parking system technologies and analyzes their architectures, communication protocols, sensor technologies, and applications in different urban environments.  Intelligent parking systems have been found to improve parking management efficiency and reduce urban traffic congestion significantly.  It was also found that there are two significant problems with intelligent parking systems using IoT: response latency and power consumption.  The response latency is due to the slow data processing caused by the traditional server-based architecture.  The power consumption problem exists because wireless sensors are required to perform a large number of data transmission and storage tasks, but at the same time, they need to be easy to move around and cannot be stably powered for an extended period.

Meanwhile, several solutions were identified to address these challenges.  Combining multiple sensing devices, such as magnetometers, light, and ultrasonic sensors, can improve response times by providing more accurate and real-time parking information.  New low-power devices can be used to solve the power consumption problem, and energy harvesting mechanisms can be incorporated into the devices.

Future research should consider the number of people in vehicles and congestion at entry/exit points when designing intelligent parking systems.  This will allow for a more comprehensive analysis of parking availability and provide drivers with a more accurate picture of parking options.

JGB 18242

Empowering Women through Entrepreneurship: Case Study of Slum-Based Enterprises in Dhaka

Debashis Kundu, Md. Mushfiqur Rahaman, Joyshree Das, Md. Saiful Islam, Rumana Rashid Rumi, & Sharna Akter/ Read Full Paper

Keywords

Women Entrepreneurship, Microfinance, Slum-based Enterprises, Economic Empowerment, Economic Productivity

Abstract

This study explores the dynamics of women's entrepreneurship in Dhaka's slums, Bangladesh, and how socioeconomic factors influence their success and challenges. Women entrepreneurs drive economic growth and social progress, especially in developing countries. However, they often face obstacles due to limited access to resources and societal constraints. Dhaka's slums provide a unique context where women engage in entrepreneurial activities for survival and empowerment despite facing significant socioeconomic and cultural barriers. The Empowerment Pathway Framework is used to examine the factors influencing the success and empowerment of these women, considering socio-demographic variables, economic variables, entrepreneurial variables, support mechanisms, and outcome variables like monthly income and empowerment. The quantitative research approach was employed through structured interviews and surveys with 47 women entrepreneurs in two slum areas. The research findings show no significant associations between educational qualification, types of businesses, and motivations for choosing businesses, suggesting a diverse and flexible approach to entrepreneurship among these women. Spearman correlation analysis indicates a positive correlation between educational qualifications and investment capital and between investment capital and monthly income. However, traditional socioeconomic variables like age, education, and investment capital do not significantly predict monthly income. The study emphasizes the multifaceted nature of women's entrepreneurship in slums, suggesting that factors beyond traditional socioeconomic variables, such as personal traits, informal support networks, and community dynamics, play a crucial role. Future research should focus on identifying these unmeasured factors to develop more effective support and empowerment strategies.