Zamboanga Del Norte Research Articles

Jail Personnel’s Challenges in the Era of Covid-19: Basis in the Development of a Contingency Plan

The challenges faced by jail personnel became significantly complex and demanding as a result of the widespread impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It affected correctional facilities and their operations on a global scale. This study aimed to find out the challenges faced by the jail personnel of Zamboanga del Norte Correctional and Rehabilitation Center (ZNCRC) during the COVID -19 pandemic as basis for a proposed contingency plan in the facility. This study employed the descriptive survey type of research utilizing quantitative data taken from the responses of fifty-seven (57) jail personnel in Zamboanga del Norte Correctional and Rehabilitation Center (ZNCRC) with the prime purpose of determining the challenges faced by the jail personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study revealed that mental health issues, intervention management and challenges on duties and functions was perceived to be rarely experienced by the respondents. However, the jail personnel had frequently experienced problems relative to supplies and facilities. The findings of this study have practical implications in developing a contingency plan and securing enough funds to enhance supplies and facilities for both jail personnel and those Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL). This is to effectively deal with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Implementation and Service Delivery Status of the Mental Health Law in the Province of Zamboanga del Norte

Mental health had been a growing concern while mental illness had been increasing in number worldwide. The enactment of the Mental Health Law or RA 11036 in 2018 hoped to bring about better delivery of mental health services as well as uphold the rights of patients. This led the proponent to investigate the implementation and service delivery status of the mental health law in the province of Zamboanga del Norte. Employing a descriptive-qualitative design, the study assessed the implementation of the various government agencies on the Mental Health Law as well as the delivery of mental health services in the province of Zamboanga del Norte. There were 50 mental health professionals interviewed through phone, messenger, and Google form using a structured interview guide. Data gathered through the interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results revealed that most of the government agencies were able to implement the law rating from 35.72% to 100% of the implementation. Eleven themes emerged such as poor knowledge about the mental health law, no proper seminars/training about mental health law, mental health is not a priority program, lack of coordination with the various agencies involved, difficulty managing mental health crises, non-inclusive mental health program, insufficient mental health services, multitasking of mental health providers, lack of mental health professionals, stigmatized attitude towards mental illness and support from LGU. It was revealed in this study that the implementation of the mental health law in the province is not fully implemented. Furthermore, the delivery of mental health services is also insufficient. As a recommendation, the primary implementing agency must exert more effort in cascading the law to all implementing agencies and mental health professionals down to the barangay level for the law to be understood and implemented. In addition, mental health services should be improved as well as the inclusion of a mental health facility.

Bio-Organic Inputs, Height of Tier and Stocking Density: Their Effects on the Production Performance and Egg Quality of HISEX Layer Chicken

The objective of this study was to examine the impact of using natural bio-organic supplements, varying cage heights, and different stocking densities on the egg-laying performance and egg quality of layer chickens at the Poultry Project for Layer Chicken of JRMSU- Tampilisan Campus in Zamboanga del Norte. The study involved 162 eight-month-old layer chickens divided into six groups and replicated thrice. These chickens were housed in cages of different heights and stocking densities to evaluate their impact on egg production and quality. The results demonstrated that providing chickens with fermented plant juice in their water, derived from madre de agua (Trichanthera gigantea), significantly influenced egg weight and resulted in higher returns above feed and supplement costs. Furthermore, maintaining the cages at a height of 3 feet proved optimal for egg weight. The number of birds in a cage also played a significant role, with four birds per cage affecting egg production and feed and water intake. Interestingly, cages housing three birds exhibited the best feed conversion ratio. Regarding egg quality, the natural supplements did not yield significant differences, but cage height influenced the weight of the eggshells, favoring the 3-foot height. Moreover, the number of birds in a cage impacted the thickness of the yolk. Overall, the study underscored the crucial role of natural supplements, cage height, and stocking density in achieving optimal egg production and quality from layer chickens.

Socio-Demographic Profile, Farming Challenges and Local Government Unit (LGU) Support to Rubber Farmers in Tampilisan, Zamboanga Del Norte: A Pre and Actual Pandemic Analysis

This study investigates the socio-demographic profile, farming challenges, and the Local Government Unit (LGU) support to rubber farmers in Tampilisan, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. The research employed a pre and actual-pandemic analysis to assess the effectiveness of LGU extension services in empowering rubber farmers. Data from 50 rubber farmers across 15 barangays were analyzed using a descriptive-correlation method. Findings reveal that rubber farmers in Tampilisan are predominantly middle-aged, have a high school education level, and have low monthly incomes. Farmers engage in diverse farming practices, including intercropping and integrated farming systems, demonstrating adaptive strategies for income diversification. While participation in LGU extension services was high before the pandemic, it significantly declined during the pandemic due to restrictions and limitations. Farmers identified several key challenges, including low rubber prices, capital constraints, and lack of skilled labor, which persisted before and during the pandemic. Despite these challenges, farmers reported moderate agreement on the benefits derived from LGU extension services, particularly regarding education for their children and food security for their families. Findings also suggest that farmers' income correlates with the types of crops planted, indicating that diversifying crops like coconut, banana, and fruit trees can lead to increased income. More so, the correlation between farmer participation and the acquisition of farming tools and planting materials underscores the positive impact of active engagement on resource access. Analyzing the above results, the study revealed the importance of sustained farmer engagement in extension services for enhancing agricultural resilience and livelihood sustainability. The insights elicited from this study include strengthening technical training and infrastructure, promoting farmer group participation, and fostering collaboration between the Local Government Unit (LGU), educational institutions, and government agencies to ensure the effectiveness of extension programs and support sustainable rubber farming practices in Tampilisan.

A new species and new records of the subtribe Lebinthina (Grylloidea, Eneopterinae, Lebinthini) from Mindanao, Philippines

A new species of Falcerminthus is described from Zamboanga del Norte in western Mindanao: Falcerminthus hispidus sp. nov. We also present a new locality record for Falcerminthus parvus (Baroga-Barbecho & Robillard, 2020) in the south of Mindanao, i.e., South Cotabato, Lake Sebu; and Lebinthus luae Robillard & Tan, 2013 in Mindanao.

Determinants Affecting Job Gratification of Non-Uniformed PNP Personnel in Zamboanga del Norte

This study assessed the gratification level of non-uniformed personnel (NUP) working in the Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office and its stations. The study utilized a quantitative approach using a survey questionnaire for data gathering from 111 participating Non-Uniformed Personnel in the three (3) districts of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. Mean, Weighted Mean, and Chi-Square were the statistical tools used in this study. Results revealed that the non-uniformed personnel respondents' level of job gratification resulted in a composite mean of 3.97, verbally interpreted as much gratified. The educational attainment, employment status, and years of employment show a significant relationship concerning the gratification level of employees when grouped according to profile variables. On the other hand, age and civil status have no significant relationship. It is concluded that job satisfaction is positively correlated with higher levels of education, stable employment status, and longer years of experience.

Accommodation Industry its Strategic Business Practices that Survive in Times of Crisis

This study examined the accommodation industry: its strategic business practices that survive in times of crisis of Dipolog City Zamboanga del Norte. The qualitative case study methodology employed to obtain an in-depth investigation of the real-time experiences of the research participants. The study anchored on Fred R. David's (2021) five strategic business management practices: leadership, people, operations, marketing, and financial performance. The study revealed that accommodations industry practicing democratic forms of leadership, hiring of employees based on skills, providing motivations to their employees, operating their business by giving customer satisfaction, advertising their products and services, and ensuring that they attain financial stability. Despite the size of these enterprises, they still carried out sustainability practices that revolve around social, economic, and environmental practices that corporate social responsibility. The study also found out that accommodation industry challenges imposed by external and internal factors. In order to survive the challenges, Accommodation Industry employed business-level strategies to develop competitive advantage in the market. It therefore recommended that accommodation industry develop and strengthen their strategic practices taking into consideration their corporate social responsibility.

Factors Correlated with the Competency of Barangay Nutrition Scholars in Cabuyao, Laguna in the Implementation of the Family MUAC Approach

With COVID-19 disrupting basic health services, the Family MUAC approach was recognized as a “reduced physical contact” method for detecting malnutrition among children aged 6-59 months old. The mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) is an anthropometric measure taken at the midpoint of the upper arm, between the tip of the shoulder (olecranon process) and the tip of the elbow (acromion). While this approach is already being implemented in 26 countries worldwide, there is a research gap in the implementing strategies of the Family MUAC approach in the Philippines. As of 2021, there were only a few documented barangay-level activities involving this approach; a pilot implementation in Samar, Northern Samar, and Zamboanga Del Norte, and a virtual training in Cagayan Province. This quantitative study was conducted to correlate factors with the competency of the Barangay Nutrition Scholars in the implementation of the Family MUAC approach. The study surveyed all 18 Barangay Nutrition Scholars in Cabuyao, Laguna using a pretested structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, supportive systems, resources, and level of competency of the respondents. On the other hand, Spearman and Cramer’s V coefficients were calculated to identify factors correlated with the competency of the respondents. With the majority of the respondents having a moderate level of competency (72.2\%), results showed that competency was negatively correlated with age and positively correlated with household size, monthly family income, last MUAC training, supervisory visits, refresher training, and availability of selected supplies. In conclusion, the variables above were factors correlated with competency, and knowledge, experience, and motivation were sufficient measures of the Barangay Nutrition Scholars’ level of competency. The study recommends reinforcing strategies on the identified positively-influencing factors related to family support, training, supervision, and supplies to improve the competency of the Barangay Nutrition Scholars in the implementation of the Family MUAC approach.

Bat diversity and its distribution in Mount Gutom Protected Landscape, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines

Abstract. Lama JMN, Caballero EB, Mondejar EP. 2023. Bat diversity and its distribution in Mount Gutom Protected Landscape, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. Biodiversitas 24: 5495-5502. Bats play an indispensable role in the balance of the ecosystem in their habitats, which range from the seaside to mountains, caves, and rivers. This study surveyed the flying mammals of Mt. Gutom Protected Landscape, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines, on April 12-23 and December 7-20, 2022. Mist netting was used to sample bats at the four sampling sites, with a total sampling effort of 126 net-nights. A total of eight species (n=330 individuals) representing two families was recorded. This includes Lesser Dog-faced fruit bat (Cynopterus brachyotis), Philippine Dawn bat (Eonycteris robusta), Philippine Pygmy fruit bat (Haplonycteris fischeri), Harpy fruit bat (Harpyionycteris whiteheadi), Dagger-toothed long-nosed fruit bat (Macroglossus minimus), Greater Musky fruit bat (Ptenochirus jagori), Lesser Musky fruit bat (P. minor), and Horsfield’s myotis (Myotis horsfieldii). The Lesser Dog-faced fruit bat (Cynopterus brachyotis) was the most abundant species in Mt. Gutom, with relative abundance of 40.91% (n=135 individuals). Mt. Gutom also supports endemic species, with 62.5% endemicity, and a Vulnerable species (Eonycteris robusta) was documented only in Site 2 (a mixed secondary dipterocarp forest). Moreover, sampling site 3 (secondary dipterocarp forest) recorded the highest abundance (RA=44.24%) and species diversity index (H’=1.376) among the four sampling sites. The results suggest that Mt. Gutom supports a diverse species of bats and conservation measures are needed to protect the remaining habitats in the area.

Discovery through citizen science III: Cryptocoryne zamboangensis (Araceae), a new water trumpet discovered in Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines

Cryptocoryne zamboangaensis, is described as a new water trumpet species discovered by citizen scientists in the streams of Zamboanga del Norte, southwestern Philippines. It resembles C. aponogetifolia in having a spathe tube longer than spathe limb, but differs significantly by its ovate, densely verrucose bright purple limb with a narrow collar. A preliminary analysis of the conservation status and a dichotomous key to the species of the genus in the Philippines are provided.

A new species of Begonia section Baryandra from Zamboanga Peninsula, Southwestern Philippines

A new species of Begonia sect. Baryandra, B. sebodensis, from Zamboanga del Norte, southwestern Philippines is described and illustrated. Begonia sebodensis is morphologically similar to B. anisoptera in obliquely ovate to widely ovate leaves, four-tepaled staminate and pistillate flowers and three locular ovary but differs in glabrescent stipules, sericeous petioles, leaf margins distantly serrate and ciliate, many-flowered inflorescences, capsule wings subequal and flat. Following IUCN criteria, we propose B. sebodensis as Endangered (EN).

Taxonomic evidences supporting the establishment of ‘sibujing', a traditional condiment crop from the Philippines, as Allium chinense G.Don

‘Sibujing' is an emerging crop species in the Philippines with recorded traditional use as condiment in localized areas in Mindanao. However, its taxonomic identity is confused as it has been attributed to various taxa of Allium. We characterized the morphological, phytochemical and molecular characteristics of a ‘sibujing' accession to establish the taxonomic belonging and correct species name of the crop and elucidate its baseline characteristics for its continued utilization. Through next‐generation sequencing, we assembled the quadripartite genome of a ‘sibujing' accession from Zamboanga del Norte. The generated chloroplast genome revealed 100% similarity to the earlier established 152 525‐bp‐long A. chinense G.Don. plastome from China. Morphological characteristics also support this identification as both bears leaves with hollow 3–5‐angled cross‐sections, scapes that are terete and solid, and distinctly toothed filament base. Saponins were also detected from its methanolic extract. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on the sequenced ITS region, a nuclear barcode, suggested that the species was closest to taxa belonging to Allium sect. Sacculiferum subg. Cepa, further supporting its potential identity with A. chinense. Using a separate accession from a different locality in the Philippines, these findings were validated as the chloroplast genome assembled, phytochemical and morphological characteristics recorded were similarly established as close to A. chinense. This is the first definitive record of an Allium species from sect. Sacculiferum in the Philippines.

POLICE RECORD MANAGEMENT: IDENTIFICATION OF THE PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED BY POLICE PERSONNEL IN THE FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT OF ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE

This paper primarily sought to determine the extent of effectiveness of police records management in the first congressional district of Zamboanga del Norte. This study employed a quantitative method which included descriptive-survey and descriptive-correlational. There were thirty (30) respondents in the study. Frequency count and per cent, weighted mean, Mann-Whitney U Test, Kruskal-Wallis H Test, and Spearman rank-order correlation were the statistical tools used in the study. The study revealed that the level of respondents' perception level on the attributes of records management, specifically in records creation, records retention and disposition, records storage and maintenance, records access and retrieval, and appropriate use of technology and records management programs is “very much effective" rating. However, the level of respondents' perception level on archival records is "much effective." Moreover, the problems encountered by police personnel in managing police records are not serious and the extent of the factors precipitating the police personnel problems encountered in managing police records is to the least extent. Furthermore, there was no relationship between police record management attributes and record management problems. It signifies that the police records officers' highly effective management of police records had nothing to do with their less severe management issues. In other words, police officers who claimed to be highly competent at handling police records did not necessarily have major issues doing so. Keywords: Police personnel records management, recordkeeping

Taxonomy and bioacoustics of little-known Grylloidea crickets (Orthoptera, Ensifera) from Mindanao, Philippines.

Orthopteran surveys were conducted recently on Mindanao Island of the Philippines. Four species new to science are described here: Mistshenkoana lunotan sp. nov., Mistshenkoana higaonon sp. nov. and Ectatoderus dubius sp. nov. from Misamis Oriental; and Phaloria (Phaloria) rotundata sp. nov. from Agusan del Sur. Based on new collected material, Madasumma fuscoirrorata Chopard, 1925, first described based on a single female from Mindanao, is transferred to Varitrella (Cantotrella) fuscoirrorata (Chopard, 1925) comb. nov. We also describe the male of this species for the first time. Madasumma zamboanga Otte, 2007, first described from Zamboanga del Norte (Mindanao), is also transferred to Mnesibulus (Amnesibulus) and redescribed: Mnesibulus (Amnesibulus) zamboanga (Otte, 2007) comb. nov. We also describe previously unknown calling songs of seven species: Falcerminthus parvus (Baroga-Barbecho & Robillard, 2020), Ajorama balatukanis Otte, 1988, Varitrella (Cantotrella) bakeri (Chopard, 1925), Varitrella (Cantotrella) fuscoirrorata (Chopard, 1925) comb. nov., Phaloria (Phaloria) rotundata sp. nov., Ornebius bioculatus Tan et al., 2019 and Ectatoderus dubius sp. nov.

Exploring Rituals as Integral Non- Material Culture of Subanens in the Zamboanga Peninsula

Subanens occupy a vast territorial domain, constituting seven major sub-groups in specific localities in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines. These Indigenous people perform rituals throughout the different stages of their lives. This study was conducted in Lakewood and San Miguel municipalities in Zamboanga del Sur, while in Katipunan and Mutia in Zamboanga del Norte. The research highlighted the indispensability of rituals among Subanens in the peninsula. Folk narratives were gathered orally and directly from the Subanen tribal leaders and elders as the informants of the study. Among the narratives gathered, six exemplify the conduct of rituals as a core non-material culture of Subanens. The analysis made on the narratives disclosed that rituals serve several functions aside from these Indigenous peoples’ act of reverence to God as the Supreme Being. Thus, amid the passing of time, they remain steadfast to the ritual practice as a mark of their cultural identity. More importantly, rituals are indispensable for them to perform as a means of precaution and to ensure sound well-being in their lifetime.

Effects of Social Media Networking Sites among Students with Their Academic Performance

This study aimed to determine the impact of social media networking sites on students' academic achievement in Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. The descriptive correlation method was used to select 120 respondents from seven university colleges. The results showed that social media has grown in acceptance, value, and usefulness among professionals and students. However, students who engage in heavy social media use but not related to their academics perform worse in class. The influences, benefits, and drawbacks of social media are highlighted to demonstrate the potential of social media in academics.

Household’s Perception of Garbage Collection Practices in the Municipality of Tampilisan

This study aimed to determine the garbage collection practices perceived by the household in the Municipality of Tampilisan, Zamboanga del Norte. The researcher applied the descriptive research method using the survey questionnaire. A 5- point Likert Scale questionnaire was used, and the respondents filled out the said questionnaire. Two hundred ninety-three household members participated in this research and were randomly selected from four barangays. Frequency count, percentage, and weighted mean were the statistical tools utilized by the researcher. Results revealed that most of the respondents are comprised of elementary and high school graduates and married. They are housewives and are directly involved in the solid waste disposal of their households. The Materials Recovery Facilities (MRF) in the Municipality are available for segregation, processing, and or buying areas for recyclables, but it is centralized and located in one barangay, Farmington. Further, 84.9% or 249 respondents are making compost of garden waste. However, the Materials Recovery Facilities of the Municipality are centralized for all 20 barangays. There were no MRF at their barangay level. Hence, it is recommended that there shall be a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) for every barangay, not just a central MRF for the Municipality.

Teachers’ Challenges on Self-directed Modular Distance Learning (SML): Basis for Extension Program Development

The covid-19 pandemic brought a remarkable impact on mankind. Like the economy, education suffers a tremendous trial in the system. The shift of the delivery of instruction to self-directed modular learning had challenged both the students and teachers. Hence, the study aimed to determine the challenges that teachers and students faced in the self-directed modular learning modalities in secondary schools of the Municipality of Katipunan Zamboanga del Norte. The study employed the sequential explanatory mixed methods design and thematic analysis technique. The study revealed that teachers encountered challenges in dealing with the Self-directed Modular Learning Modality. However, the challenges met do not affect the student’s academic performance. The study strongly recommends that the implementation of the Self-Modular Learning Modality will be reviewed carefully. Coping Strategies applied in overcoming the challenges will be examined thoroughly to devise constructive inputs to improve DepEd school's existing programs and guidelines. As partner institution, JRMSU-Katipunan Campus through the College of Education with the collaboration of the Guidance office will conduct intervention programs for students and teachers. Orientation for parents on home-based learning will be conducted. Budget allocation for internet connectivity, bending machines and computer sets will be requested from the government through the barangay, and training programs in line with technological skills development for teachers will be implemented.

Urban-rural divide and COVID-19: engaging teachers to assess and improve the Philippine basic education-learning continuity plan

ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed poverty and exacerbated social inequality. Our role as academics is to illuminate these social issues to help policy makers address them adequately. Hence, we conducted this ethnographic study situated within the discourse urban-rural divide to assess the Philippine Basic Education-Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP), a COVID-19 education response, through the help of three teachers who, like us, the researchers, have been exposed to the rural and urban areas in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte. In our effort to promote social justice and equity in education, we have privileged the voices of those in the marginalized rural sector. We interviewed the teacher key actors, conducted autoethnography and participant observation, and studied secondary sources available. Data sources were triangulated, and data transcripts were analysed through thematic analysis, drawing on relevant theories and literature. Interrelated social factors instigated by the government’s biased past policies are (a) socioeconomic impact of COVID-19, (b) digital divide, (c) school location, and (d) parental education. While the pandemic affected urban and rural residents, the latter felt a severe impact. This study underscores the teacher agency in the BE-LCP policy: Teachers recommended monitoring learning outcomes, attending to low-performing learners, supporting home-based learning, and providing teaching resources.

Challenging Issues in Rural Secondary Education

Rural secondary student incapacity to access the Senior High School program became a perennial problem in Katipunan, Zamboanga del Norte. That is why getting a decent education is not possible for them. Thus, the study aimed to determine the challenging issues in rural secondary education in the selected Barangays of Katipunan Zamboanga del Norte. The quantitative research method was used with the help of the survey questionnaire to gather the data. The study revealed that the majority of the respondents were from rural areas. Poverty was the leading problem that the respondents faced. Thus, it is strongly recommended that government must provide senior high school programs near their locality and provide necessary subsidies such as food, school supplies, medicine, and clothing so the students not to become hesitant about going to school.