Cabanatuan City Research Articles

Exploring service quality and pricing ethics of motorcycle drivers in cabanatuan: Perspectives of student clients

This study explores the service quality and pricing ethics of motorcycle drivers in Cabanatuan City, focusing on the perceptions of student clients. Motorcycle services, widely used for their affordability and accessibility, often face challenges related to professionalism, safety, and ethical pricing practices. This research evaluated the factors influencing customer satisfaction and trust among students, including safety, professionalism, punctuality, vehicle condition, and pricing transparency. A descriptive quantitative research design was employed, collecting data from 35 student respondents through a structured questionnaire disseminated via Google Forms. The results revealed moderate satisfaction with professionalism, punctuality, and vehicle condition but highlighted significant gaps in safety measures, transparency in pricing, and driver behavior. Ethical concerns, including inconsistent fare practices and perceived overcharging, were particularly evident during peak demand periods, undermining student trust. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions such as mandatory driver training, standardized pricing mechanisms, and improved service coverage to enhance the reliability and equity of motorcycle services. However, the study's scope was limited to a single semester and a small sample of 35 respondents, restricting the generalizability of the results. Future research should expand the sample size and include broader demographics to comprehensively understand the issues.

SPECIAL EDUCATION IN THE NEW NORMAL: EMBRACING DISTANCE LEARNING

This study explores the adaptation and challenges in special education during distance learning to develop a comprehensive continuity plan. Participants included three administrators and 15 teachers from special education schools in Cabanatuan City, along with 150 parents during the 2021-2022 school year at Cabanatuan East Central School, Lazaro Francisco Integrated School, and Camp Tinio Elementary School. Using a descriptive research method, the researchers created a questionnaire as the main data collection tool, which was validated for reliability. Data analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), employing frequency counts and percentages to profile respondents. Weighted mean values were applied to assess adjustments, challenges, and support in special education distance learning. The findings reveal the effective implementation of modified practices in special education, covering instructional, curricular, and administrative areas. Administrators and teachers rated the challenges of executing the special education learning continuity plan as moderately difficult, while parents found them slightly challenging, emphasizing the significant efforts of teachers and administrators in helping parents and students comply with the plan. The researchers recommends a continuity plan designed to benefit administrators, special education teachers and parents with the goal of improving the educational experience for this group. KEYWORDS: Special Education, Distance Learning, Adaptation, Challenges

Food tourism as a driver of economic and cultural development in Nueva Ecija, Philippines

This study explores culinary tourism in Nueva Ecija, focusing on visitor perspectives and identifying unique culinary gems that make the province an attractive destination for foodies. It used quantitative research design to understand tourists' preferences, motivations, and challenges in food tourism in Nueva Ecija. It aims to promote culinary delicacies and enrich the province's culinary offerings. The study reveals that 54% of respondents aged 18-22 are employed with an average monthly income of 5,000-10,000 pesos. Most are college graduates and know local food in Nueva Ecija through social media. Most have visited Gabaldon, Cabanatuan City, Laur, Muñoz, and Bongabon, using public vehicles and staying for at least one day. Puno's Ice Cream & Sherbet is the top ice cream provider in Nueva Ecija, while Tokneneng/Kwek-kwek, a street food with hard-boiled quail eggs and flour, is the most popular. The study found that Nueva Ecija offers a wide variety of local food establishments, with delicious and tasty options, and a satisfied rating for cost, sanitation, and safety. The data indicates that demographic factors like age, sex, and income do not significantly influence the motivation to visit Nueva Ecija's tourist destination. The data indicates that demographic factors such as age, sex, and income do not significantly influence the gastronomy tourist market experience. The study surveyed local and foreign tourists, providing insights into the state of food tourism in Nueva Ecija. Most tourists were interested in food-related activities, recognizing its importance in travel experiences. Locals played a crucial role in assessing this potential.

AWARENESS AND VIOLATION OF BROWN LAWS AMONG CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS IN CABANATUAN CITY

The purpose of this study was to assess the level of awareness among first year criminology students in Nueva Ecija regarding brown laws, identify instances of non-compliance, understand the underlying reasons and motivations for violation and develop an action plan grounded in the research findings. The participants in this study were the 1st year students of selected Criminology institutions in Cabanatuan City namely: Manuel V. Gallego Foundation (MVGFC), Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST); PHINMA- Araullo University (Main Campus); and Wesleyan University-Philippines (WU-P). The study concludes that Criminology students are generally aware of various Brown Laws, including RA 9275, RA 9003, RA 8749, and RA 6969. However, despite this awareness, there is a notable tendency for some students to commit environmental violations, particularly under RA 6969, which has the lowest level of awareness and is linked to frequent violations such as storing hazardous wastes and knowingly using prohibited chemical substances. The primary reasons for these violations include the laws' lack of popularity, insufficient media dissemination, lenient enforcement, and a shortage of dedicated enforcement personnel. These factors create an environment where environmental laws, despite being known, are often disregarded. Hence, it is recommended to enhance education and awareness, improve media campaigns and strengthen enforcement to secure compliance and deter potential violators. KEYWORDS: Awareness, Violations, Reasons, Brown Laws, Criminology Students

Influence of cross-training program to employee retention in selected Restaurants in Cabanatuan City Nueva Ecija

Influence of cross-training program to employee retention in selected Restaurants in Cabanatuan City Nueva Ecija

Urban Sheds: Enhancing Walkability through Green Sheltered Walkways in Del Pilar Street, Cabanatuan City

Urban Sheds: Enhancing Walkability through Green Sheltered Walkways in Del Pilar Street, Cabanatuan City

ReCab: Most Sustainable Post-Rehabilitation Development for the Former Cabanatuan City Dumpsite through Integrated Landscape Approach

Abstract The utilization of open dumpsites poses significant risks not only to human health but also to the biodiversity of an area. The presence of external factors like changes in land cover and harmful human activities further compounds these threats. To address these issues, the rehabilitation of dumpsites and the implementation of sustainable landscape development are imperative. Hence, this study was conducted to select the most sustainable development option. The study adopts an Integrated Landscape Approach as its foundation, three scenarios, namely biodiversity park, ecological park, and agricultural technology park, were considered based on rankings obtained from expert consultations. Through a series of assessments considering sustainability pillars, sustainable development goals, and stakeholder preferences, the ecological park emerged as the most favorable option. This research underlines the critical importance of adopting sustainable landscape development measures, especially in areas affected by open dumpsites. The study’s findings serve as a vital reference for policymakers, environmentalists, and community leaders in their efforts to foster sustainable development and safeguard natural ecosystems. In conclusion, the implementation of sustainable design principles in the closure and post-rehabilitation of former dumpsites holds promise for benefiting the environment, society, and economy alike.

Molecular Detection of Extended Spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli from Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) meat isolated from Public Markets in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija

Antibiotic resistance poses a considerable threat to human populations, especially those belonging to developing countries, like the Philippines. The high prevalence of improper antimicrobial usage has led to the rise of multi-drug resistant microorganisms, harboring genes, such as blaCTX-M, responsible for the proliferation of microorganisms with extrinsic resistance to β-lactam antibiotics. This study investigated the presence of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli isolated from commercially available chicken meat sold in Public Markets from Cabanatuan City. Phenotypic confirmation of the species was done via macroscopic methods (culture) using selective and differential media supplemented with 1mg/L cefotaxime. Bacterial genomic DNA extraction using boil lysis method was done prior to PCR amplification using a primer for blaCTX-M to confirm resistance attributed to β-lactamase production. Nine (9) isolates were characterized, depicting dark colonies with green-metallic sheen in Eosin-Methylene Blue agar as E. coli. The presence of blaCTX-M gene for ESBL-producing E. coli was detected across all isolates based on the ~592bp bands from the PCR amplification. The results of this study encompasses the need for surveillance of AMR, highlighting the significance of the risk posed by these resistant species present in food products. Further testing is recommended to fully characterize the isolates’ resistance profiles and genotypes to further assess their geographical distribution.

Evaluation of the Disaster Preparedness among Residents of Valdefuente, Cabanatuan City, Philippines

Evaluation of the Disaster Preparedness among Residents of Valdefuente, Cabanatuan City, Philippines

Assessment of Children in Conflict with the Law Institutional Facilities in Cabanatuan City, Philippines

This is a qualitative-case study that used a self-made interview guide validated by experts. Data gathered from eight participants were collated, themed, analyzed and interpreted. The findings revealed that the prevailing conditions of both institutions as to the crime causations were peer influence, poverty, dysfunctional family, and curiosity. The most common crimes committed were theft, carnapping, drug related cases and attempted homicide. There were also various intervention programs. The challenges encountered were deviant behaviors and physical facilities which were addressed through numerous actions taken. Lastly, the needs identified were provisions of physical facilities, knowledge empowerment, skills enhancement, recreations and necessities. As to the findings, the following conclusions were drawn; both correctional facilities have a common denominator as to CICLs crime causations, crimes committed and various intervention programs. The challenges encountered by both correctional institutions have similarity on deviant behaviors while they slightly differ on physical facilities. The actions taken to address the challenge encountered were in unison focused on activities that aims to reform and rehabilitate the CICL. Finally, there is a need for big help or intervention from other various agencies or organizations to address the voluminous needs identified from the basic needs up to their empowerment.

Unheard voices: A qualitative study on the lived experiences of street vagrants in Cabanatuan city

Unheard voices: A qualitative study on the lived experiences of street vagrants in Cabanatuan city

COMPETENCY AND RESILIENCY OF SECURITY GUARDS IN CABANATUAN CITY, PHILIPPINES

Resiliency is the talent to do what is right under duress and to rebound to a daily round. The study determined the level of competency, resiliency, and resilience strategies in coping with challenges faced by 259 security guards in Cabanatuan City. The researcher utilized a mixed method was used to gather data. Findings revealed that security guards perceived themselves as very competent. Null hypothesis is accepted on the type of security guards; however, rejected on length of service and shift of duty. The level of resiliency was further perceived as very resilient. Null hypothesis is accepted on the type of security guards and shift of duty; however, rejected on the length of service. Further, a positive correlation between competency and resiliency is evident. Last, coping strategies were identified as; positive response, self-assessment, following rules, confidence, value work, and seeking support. Based on the findings of the study, the following conclusions are drawn: security guards were equipped with sufficient knowledge, skills, and attitude in performing their duties and responsibilities; security guards were able to perform despite challenges encountered; the more competent the security guards, the more resilient they become; coping strategies vary on challenges encountered. Hence, module of instruction was crafted. KEYWORDS: Security Guard, Competency, Resiliency, Coping Mechanism

IPET: The Design, Development, and Assessment of a Web-Based Application for Pet Adoption

The iPet web application was developed to assist in pet adoption and support for pets whose owners are unable to care for them, thereby reducing the risk of abandonment. This study utilized a developmental research method, following the six steps of the waterfall model: requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. IT experts used ISO 25010 standards to evaluate the application's functional suitability, performance efficiency, compatibility, usability, reliability, security, maintainability, and portability. Feedback from end-user respondents in Barangay Aduas Norte, Cabanatuan City, including both pet owners and non-pet owners, indicated a high level of satisfaction with iPet's effectiveness. Based on the study's findings, recommendations were made to enhance the application. It was suggested to develop iPet as a mobile-based application for convenient access on smartphones and tablets. The integration of chat features was also recommended to improve user communication and information exchange. Future researchers were advised to utilize these findings for their own research on pet adoption applications. Implementing these recommendations would improve the functionality, user experience, and efficiency of iPet, thereby facilitating the pet adoption process and enhancing the overall experience for pet owners and potential adopters

Transcending: The journey and lived experiences of the educators who survived COVID-19

This study described how the educators, both from public and private schools in Cabanatuan City, managed and survived the difficulties they experienced while battling the Covid-19 virus. The researcher used a descriptive phenomenological design for this study, of which an in-depth interview was conducted to generate qualitative data from the twelve (12) educators from public and private schools in Cabanatuan City. Thematic analysis was applied in emerging the five (5) themes, namely: (1) The Crossover of COVID-19 (Initial reaction of participants when infected), (2) Pyschosocial Distress Behind the Wall (Physical, Psychological, Social Difficulties including the Post Covid-Symptoms), (3) Conquering Adversaries (Coping Mechanism applied to survive Covid-19 infection) (4) Transcending Life’s Meaning (Life lessons learned from their Covid-19 Journey) and (5) Proposed Policy for Educational Institutions (Policies suggested based on their experiences). The findings of the study showed that: the phenomenon under study showed the educators’ resiliency through their faith and positivity, which enabled them to survive the difficulties they faced as Covid-19 patients. All these themes form a central idea that educators are in need of institutional support when faced with a health crisis, such as the pandemic, that can put their lives at risk. Based on the results, the researcher crafted a proposed institutional policy that will aid and support the employees in times of health crisis.

Work-life balance and online student engagement among registered nurses enrolled in online graduate nursing education: a mixed methods study

Background There is a growing number of online nursing graduate degree programs to address the professional development needs of working nurses. Work-related antecedents of online student engagement in graduate nursing studies are under-explored in the literature. Aim The aim of the study is to examine the relationship among demographic and work characteristics, work-life balance (WLB), and online student engagement (OSE) among registered nurses enrolled in online graduate studies. Methods This study design is convergent-parallel mixed methods, utilizing a survey approach to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. The target population is students of an online Master of Arts in Nursing program at a university in Cabanatuan City, Philippines. Respondents were recruited via email. Google Forms were used for data collection. Non-parametric, inferential statistical tests were used to examine relationships among variables. Inductive qualitative content analysis was used to draw insights from open-ended responses. Results A total of 173 graduate students responded to the survey. Quantitative results indicate high levels of WLB (Mdn = 4.8, IQR = 1.5) and OSE (Mdn = 3.7–4.0, IQR = 0.5–1.0). WLB was significantly lower among females (U = 3297.5, p < 0.01). Emotion OSE was significantly higher for respondents with managerial positions (U = 2987.5, p < 0.05). WLB had significant low to moderate positive correlations with the domains of OSE (r = 0.22 to 0.32, p < 0.01). Qualitative findings reveal various appraisals of online learning and factors influencing work-life-study balance, such as work, personal life, and school. Conclusion Work-life balance facilitates better online student engagement among graduate nursing students and is influenced by time management, work (i.e. job environment and stressors), personal (i.e. home life and leisure activities), and university factors (i.e. curriculum, modality, and professors). Impact statement Empirical evidence on the link between WLB and OSE can inform graduate nursing academics in developing initiatives to ensure the timely completion of the degree program.

Assessing the Effects of Plastic Bans on Businesses in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija

The study investigates the repercussions of the ban on Plastic Bags Business in Cabanatuan City, aiming to define respondent profiles, highlight encountered issues, evaluate business aspects, and propose strategies to address the ban's impact. It seeks to understand the ban's effect on sales/profits and weighs the advantages and disadvantages of plastic bag use. Utilizing a questionnaire, the researcher surveyed ten respondents across two public markets in Cabanatuan City. The focus encompassed problems faced, delving into marketing, financial, and socio-environmental aspects. Findings suggest that despite the ban, plastic bag owners perceive their business as profitable. They attribute this profitability to the perceived greater utility of plastic bags compared to alternative eco-friendly options. The study's significance lies in shedding light on the ban's impact on business operations and financial viability. It emphasizes the perceived profitability of plastic bag sales despite the ban, challenging assumptions about the ban's detrimental effects on business. In essence, the study examines how the ban affects the Plastic Bags Business in Cabanatuan City, underlining the resilience of plastic bag sales despite the prohibition. The insights gained could inform policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders about the complexities and nuances surrounding such bans and their actual impact on businesses and the environment.

Needs Assessment of Senior High School Teachers in Mathematics Instruction

This study attempted to assess the needs of Senior High School Teachers in Mathematics instruction at the Schools Division Office of Cabanatuan City. Specifically, it sought to describe the following; the professional qualification, the familiarity with Mathematics essential knowledge, the pedagogical strategies employed; and the significant relationship between the profile of the respondents with familiarity with Mathematics essential knowledge and pedagogical strategies employed, the educational infrastructure in terms of teacher’s guide and adequacy of Mathematics materials in terms of instruction. As an output, the identified needs of the SHS Mathematics teachers were collected for future use. The study utilized descriptive-correlational research as it describes and examines the relationship between variables without making any causal claims. Based on the results of the study, the following conclusions are drawn: the majority of the respondents have Master’s Degrees in Education with a specialization in Mathematics, have 1 to 10 years of teaching experience, attended 5 to 7 various seminars in their field of self-identified specialization, all of the respondents teach Mathematics subjects and some of them are also teaching non-mathematics subjects. No respondents are freed from Non-Teaching Assignments; the familiarity of the respondents with essential knowledge in Mathematics Instruction is EXCELLENT, pedagogical strategy most employed by the respondents is Assessment; there is no significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their competence on General Mathematics essential knowledge; the DepEd – issued Teacher’s Guide is generally rated by respondents as strongly agree or Excellent, the availability and sufficiency of Mathematics Materials inside the classroom is SATISFACTORY. Based on the study conducted, the needs of SHS Mathematics teachers in the public secondary schools of Cabanatuan City must be concentrated on provision of more usable and sufficient Mathematics tools and materials. Mathematics-related seminars focusing on content are also found to be a necessity among teachers.

Breaking Free from Plastic: The Philippines' Journey Towards Sustainable Consumption and Production

Plastic pollution presents a significant threat to global ecosystems, with the Philippines being a major contributor to ocean plastic waste. This environmental challenge endangers marine life, public health, and sustainability. The Philippines' No Plastic Policy is a strategic initiative aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12, which promotes responsible consumption and production. SDG 12 aims to enhance resource efficiency, develop sustainable infrastructure, and reduce waste through prevention, recycling, and reuse. This study examined the No Plastic Policy implementation progress in the Philippines, focusing on Cabanatuan City. Data were collected from 260 participants, primarily adults and females, using a quantitative descriptive research design. A researcher-made survey questionnaire facilitated data collection, which was analyzed using descriptive statistical tools. The findings indicate that residents largely adhere to the policy, motivated by the penalties imposed. However, challenges such as inefficient garbage collection, drainage maintenance issues, inadequate garbage trucks, and poor adoption of eco-friendly practices like using eco-bags persist. Despite the penal provisions, the study found that the penalties were not stringent enough to deter violations effectively. A comprehensive information campaign is necessary to improve waste management and disposal systems. The lack of funding was a critical barrier to systematic program management and implementation. Recommendations include enhanced enforcement, regular monitoring, and the promotion of biodegradable alternatives to strengthen policy efficacy. Stricter penalties and collaboration between barangay officials and local government units are essential for better compliance. The study underscores the importance of addressing the identified issues to optimize the impact of the No Plastic Policy, reduce plastic waste, and mitigate pollution. Future research should explore plastic waste management across various sectors to develop holistic, impactful solutions for local and national contexts.

Enhancing Support For Senior Citizens: Development And Evaluation of The OSCA Information Management System With Agile Methodology and ISO/IEC 25010 Compliance

The elderly were a member of the vulnerable group which the government supported and assisted in every way possible. To contribute to the support and assistance needed by the elderly who are called senior citizens, this study was conducted. This aims to develop and design a usable, performance-efficient, and functional suitable to the operation and service of the Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA), Cabanatuan City office. The System Application Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs Information Management System with Analytics (OSCA-IMSA) was developed using the Agile System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) Model. The agile model has different phases and sub-phases that guarantee the quality and efficient development of the system. Every phase and sub-phases lead to a well-organized, and systematic process of system development. The proponents adopted the ISO/IEC 25010 criteria as an evaluation tool to assess the system's usability, reliability, performance efficiency, functional suitability, security, portability, maintainability, and compatibility. The self-made survey questionnaire was used as the main tool to collect the data from the respondents. Purposive sampling was used to determine the right respondents for the study. The study was composed of two different sets of respondents, the first set was the System Users and the second set was composed of IT Experts. The Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs Information Management System with Analytics (OSCA-IMSA) was evaluated and assessed by the respondents with a result of being highly functional, highly efficient, highly portable, highly maintainable, highly compatible, highly secured, highly reliable, and highly usable. This result indicates that the system passed and conformed to the ISO/IEC 25010 Software Product Quality Standard, hence, is recommended to be deployed at the research locale.

FACTORS AFFECTING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN IN CABANATUAN CITY

This study aimed to examine the factors affecting violence against women in Cabanatuan City, Philippines. The research questions focused on identifying common crimes/violence/abuse committed against women and exploring the factors influencing such violence. A descriptive research design was employed, gathering quantifiable information through data analysis. The study was conducted in selected barangays in Cabanatuan City, namely Sumacab Este, Bagong Sikat, and Bakero, which had a high number of reported cases of violence against women. The participants included barangay officials and barangay tanods. The findings revealed numerous forms of violence and abuse against women, such as physical violence, sexual violence, economic abuse, emotional abuse, and psychological abuse. These forms of violence stem from gender-based inequality and power imbalances, resulting in significant physical, emotional, and psychological harm to women. The study also highlighted low levels of womens access to paid employment, indicating gender disparities in the workforce due to discrimination, limited job opportunities, unequal pay, and inadequate support for work-life balance. These inequalities hinder womens economic independence and overall empowerment, contributing to gender-based economic disparities. Additionally, the study identified limited access to education among women, emphasizing an educational gap that restricts personal and professional development, limits socio-economic opportunities, and perpetuates gender inequality. The study accentuates the urgent need for interventions and policies to address violence against women and promote gender equality in Cabanatuan City. Efforts should focus on raising awareness about the various forms of violence, implementing measures to protect women, promoting economic opportunities for women, and ensuring equal access to education. By addressing these factors, the study aims to contribute to the creation of a safer and more equitable society for women in Cabanatuan City and beyond. KEYWORDS: Factors, Violence against women, Cabanatuan City, Abused against Women