Volume 13, Issue 3, March 2025 Edition - GSJ Journal Publication

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A Case Study: Best Practices of Bantay Dagat Volunteers in the Municipality of Bangui, Ilocos Norte []


This study focused on the best practices of the Bantay Dagat Volunteers in preserving the coastal and marine life. Specifically, the programs or activities they implemented, the impact of the activities or programs on the community, their challenges encountered in the implementation of the activities and the activities a Bantay Dagat should implement in the future. The study used a qualitative method involving five Bantay Dagat volunteers from Bangui, Ilocos Norte, each with over five years of experience using a purposeful sampling to select participants who could provide detailed insights into the volunteers' best practices. The data were analyzed and interpreted using case analysis. The findings revealed that the volunteers have successfully curbed illegal fishing, promoted marine conservation awareness, and enhanced community collaboration for environmental cleanliness through waste management, endangered species monitoring, and fisheries law enforcement. These actions have improved ecological conditions and increased community engagement. However, the study also identified limitations such as resource constraints, communication gaps, jurisdictional issues, and safety risks during enforcement. To enhance the effectiveness of Bantay Dagat, the study recommends increased support through improved training, better equipment (e.g., patrol boats, communication tools), and sustainable projects like fish sanctuaries for income generation. Collaboration between volunteers, local governments, and national agencies is crucial for long-term  conservation success. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and conservationists seeking to strengthen community-based environmental protection efforts. Keywords: Bantay Dagat, marine conservation, community involvement, environmental protection, illegal fishing, coastal management.

IMPACT OF INCLUSIVE MARKETING STRATEGIES IN BUILDING BRAND LOYALTY AMONG CUSTOMERS WITH DISABILTIES IN THE USA. []


ABSTRACT Disabilties inclusion is essential to ensure everyone has equal opportunities in society, which is critical for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Persons with disabilities are among the marginalized communities, with many living in poverty. They face numerous internal and external challenges due to their disabilities. Thus there is a need to conduct research on the Impact of Inclusive marketing strategies in building brand loyalty among customers with disabilties in USA. To that end, this study investigates the impact of inclusive marketing strategies on brand loyalty among consumers with disabilities in the USA from a consumer behavior perspective using explanatory research design. Eperical reviews is carry out and the findings highlight the significant impact of inclusive marketing strategies on brand loyalty among consumers with disabilities. The study enriches the literature by incorporating self-congruity theory, consumer Culture Theory, theory of tokensim , relationship Marketing theory and identifying factors like product inclusive marketing, brand loyalty as key determinants significantly influencing the proposed relationship. Based on the study's findings, this study concludes that inclusive marketing has a positive and significant impact on building brand loyalty among persons with disabilities in the USA. To that end, the researcher recommends that comprehensive marketing strategies should be put in place by business organizations in the USA to boost brand loyalty among customers with special focus on persons with disabilties and build emotional connection with customers with disabilties. Keywords: Marketing Strategies, Brand Loyalty, Inclusive, Disability and Consumer Behavior and USA.

FACTORS THAT INTERFERE WITH EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING AMONG MOTHERS DURING THE FIRST FOUR WEEKS POSTPARTUM []


This study examines the multifaceted factors influencing exclusive breastfeeding practices among mothers during the critical first four weeks postpartum in select barangays of Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. The central concern is the persistent decline in exclusive breastfeeding rates, despite its well-documented benefits. Employing a descriptive quantitative research design, this study investigates the interplay of socio-demographic characteristics, maternal challenges, prevalent misconceptions, support systems, and employment status in breastfeeding practices. Data were collected from postpartum mothers across three barangays using an adapted questionnaire, encompassing demographic information and breastfeeding practices. Statistical analyses, including frequency counts, Spearman, and Chi-square tests, were conducted to identify significant associations. Key findings revealed maternal educational attainment, income levels, and employment status significantly impact breastfeeding practices. Mothers aged 19–40, particularly those with higher education, demonstrated a greater likelihood of practicing exclusive breastfeeding. However, significant barriers were identified, including perceived inadequate milk supply and widespread misconceptions regarding breastfeeding adequacy. These challenges were further exacerbated by insufficient workplace support for employed mothers, contributing to a decline in adherence to the recommended six-month exclusive breastfeeding duration. While breastfeeding initiation rates shortly after birth were robust, the study underscores the critical need to address socio-cultural and economic determinants to sustain exclusive breastfeeding. Targeted interventions are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of employment challenges and prevalent misconceptions. To effectively improve exclusive breastfeeding rates, the study recommends a comprehensive approach encompassing enhanced maternal education, provision of economic support, promotion of community awareness, and implementation of supportive workplace policies that accommodate breastfeeding mothers."

The Contribution of Tourism Revenue Sharing on the Livelihood of Communities Surrounding Gishwati-Mukura National Park []


This study examines the impact of Tourism Revenue Sharing on the livelihoods of people living around Gishwati-Mukura National Park in Rwanda. The study aims to identify different initiatives financed by tourism revenue sharing around the Gishwati-Mukura National Park, to determine the measurable improvements in the economic development of TRS beneficiaries. The study followed a mixed-method approach employing both quantitative and qualitative techniques. A sample of one GMNP staff, two local leaders, and 397 local communities were interviewed. The TRS program has financed over 18 projects for the beneficiaries in Rutsiro District. And it is in line with the vision of the country. Regarding the measurable improvements in the economic development of people around Gishwati-Mukura National Park as a result of TRS in the Rutsiro district the researcher found that more than 75% of respondents confirmed that the program has improved their livelihood including; the creation of employment in tourism-related activities, capacity-building initiatives, infrastructure development, and the improvement of social services. The results show that the implementation of tourism revenue-sharing was successful in the Rutsiro Sector it has contributed to the improvement of living standards and quality of life for residents in the Mukura and Kigeyo sectors. Keywords: Tourism, revenue sharing, community livelihood, conservation, and National Park

Forest Stewards In The Forest Land Use Agreement Area: A Case Study []


The research study explored the experiences of the Forest Stewards in North Luzon Renewable Energy Corporation, focusing on their motivations, main duties, the challenges they encountered in performing their duties, and the fulfillment they deemed worthy of recognition.This study employed qualitative research through a case study design and purposeful sampling to gather detailed insights into the experiences of forest stewards. The involved nine participants, each with at least nine years of service at the North Luzon Renewable Energy Corporation in Barangay Caparispisan, Municipality of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. Data collection was conducted using an interview guide and a recording device. The participants consisted: five Forestry members, two Forest Guards, and two Barangay Tanods. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data.The themes derived from the participants motivations to become forest stewards include familial motivation, job security, financial stability, forest enthusiasm, and compassion for conservation. The main duties of the Forest Stewards are patrolling, stewardship, and tending to a garden. Researchers found that the challenges encountered by the Forest Stewards include climate conditions, human-induced problems, and a lack of resources. Despite these challenges, they are able to cope while fulfilling their duties and responsibilities. The fulfillment experienced by the Forest Stewards is derived from the admiration of work and life fulfillment.The study highlights the vital role and invaluable contributions of Forest Stewards under the Forest Land Use Agreement Area (FLAg Area) in conserving and managing the forest. Their efforts benefit both the environment and the community. Despite challenges, they remain resilient and highly efficient in their duties. The community deeply values their dedication, which contributes to the forest s health and beauty.The recommendations for North Luzon Renewable Energy Corporation (NLREC) focus on several key areas for improvement. Implementation of weather safety protocols for extreme heat and thunderstorms, including lightning safety around trees and heat illness prevention, should be prioritized. Enhanced coordination with fire departments and emergency services through improved communication and joint training programs is essential. NLREC may consider hiring additional night shift personnel or adjusting schedules during dry season to address wildfire suppression manpower shortages. Educational programs for local barangays may be conducted to increase awareness of conservation efforts and discourage illegal activities. Additional resources may be provided to Forest Stewards to help them perform their duties more efficiently. Finally, creating a video presentation titled "Embracing Passion for Nature" in collaboration with DENR and BFP would showcase the forest ecosystem s beauty and reach a wider audience.Key words: Forest Stewards, North Luzon Renewable Energy Corporation, Motivations of the Forest Stewards, Main Duties of Forest Stewards, Challenges Encountered of the Forest Stewards, Fulfillment Experienced by the Forest Stewards, Forest Land Use Agreement Area.

POLICE PRESENCE 24/7: AN ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF P.R.O.T.E.C.T. BOX PROGRAM []


This study assessed the implementation of P.R.O.T.E.C.T. Box program in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, a law enforcement initiative aimed at enhancing police visibility, improving police community relations, and reducing crime. The program, modeled after Japan’s Koban system, seeks to establish strategic police outpost in hightraffic and high-crime areas to provide immediate response and deter criminal activity. Using a mixed-method explanatory design, this study gathered data from Brgy. 4, Brgy. 11, Brgy. 14, Brgy. 22, and Brgy. 47 which where the program is located through surveys and interviews. Results indicate that the program significantly improves public perception of safety, fosters trust between the community and law enforcement, and serves as an effective deterrent against crime. Findings show that the citizens have great appreciation to the program in terms of crime reduction and police public relations. However, the study identified three issues such as the insufficient P.R.O.T.E.C.T. Boxes, only five units in Laoag City, which is inadequate to cover all barangays. Additionally, there is a lack of police personnel; despite the limited number of units, police personnels remains insufficient to ensure consistent presence at these outposts. Furthermore, many residents are unaware of the full range of services provided by the P.R.O.T.E.C.T. Box due to inadequate information dissemination. The findings indicate that the P.R.O.T.E.C.T. Box program plays a vital role in crime deterrence and community policing, but recommends further expansion, increased police personnel to more populated or more crime prone areas and wider dissemination of the program’s objectives and services. These findings provide valuable insights to policymakers and law enforcement agencies seeking to optimize police presence and improve community safety strategies.

CRIMINOLOGIS THIRD ATTEMPT: A CASE STUDY OF PERSEVERANCE []


This study investigated the factors that contributed to the success of registered criminologists who failed twice but succeeded on their third attempt in board examination. The research focused on the registered criminologists from the Data Center College of the Philippines-Laoag City by examining the challenges faced, coping mechanisms utilized, and strategies employed to achieve success. The study used a qualitative case study approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews to gather in-depth insights into participants experiences. Participants, identified through snowball sampling, included three criminologists from Vintar and Piddig. Data collection relied on a validated interview guide and recording devices to capture detailed narratives, shedding light on how individuals overcame repeated failures to pass the Criminologist Licensure Examination (CLE).The data gathered were analyzed and interpreted using case analysis. The highlight of data gathered in this study were the following: Challenges Encountered by the Participants After Failing. The participants experienced disappointment with themselves and feelings of inadequate knowledge.Coping Mechanisms for Failure. The participants relied on a good support system, self-motivation, and diverted their attention to other things.Strategies Used by the Participants in Passing the CLE. The participants embraced change and personal growth, attended review centers, participated in online reviews and self-reviews, prioritized health and well-being, and placed trust in God and divine timing.This study found that individuals who failed the Criminologist Licensure Examination faced emotional challenges, including sadness and self-doubt. Despite this, participants showed resilience through support, self-motivation, and faith. A structured exam preparation, including review centers and self-care, played a key role in their success. The researchers recommend the following based on the data gathered: First, the Data Center College of the Philippines-College of Criminal Justice Education may post the informative video titled CLE-ver Tips to Success based on the lived experiences of the registered criminologists who took the board examination thrice, to help reviewee, students, and retakers and it provide some tips regarding the preparation in taking upcoming board examinations. Second, the reviewee, students, and retakers may adopt the informative video for them to create a comprehensive strategy that will help or guide them in the preparation process for them to perform at their best ability in the board examination. Keywords: Registered Criminologist, Board exam retakers, Challenges, Coping mechanisms, Strategies, Criminologist Licensure Examination.

OCCUPATIONAL STRESSORS AMONG SECURITY PERSONNEL IN LAOAG CITY, ILOCOS NORTE []


This descriptive study examined the occupational stress levels among security personnel in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, focusing on physical, emotional, and mental stress. A total of 84 security personnel from various establishments participated in the study. Data were collected through survey questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to assess stress levels and coping strategies. The survey results were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, and mean scores, while thematic analysis was used to interpret qualitative data. Findings revealed that long working hours were the most significant physical stressor, contributing to moderate stress (1.77). Emotional stressors, such as handling unruly customers, and mental stress-ors, such as irregular break hours, were both rated as minimal stress (1.51 and 1.43, respectively). Addition-ally, occupational stress impacted security personnel’s job performance and personal well-being, categorized into five themes: physical fatigue, role strain, restricted emotions, occupational stereotyping, and fasting-induced cognitive disruption. Despite these challenges, security personnel exhibited resilience through three main coping strategies: Personal Retreat (engaging in recreational activities), Self-Composure (emotional regulation and patience), and Positive Mindset (self-affirmation and humor). These strategies enabled them to mitigate stress and maintain professionalism in their roles. Based on these findings, the study recommends structured scheduling systems, standardized break policies, and stress management programs to reduce occupational stress and improve job satisfaction. The proposed "Rotational Shift Scheduling System with Standardized Break Policies" aims to create a more balanced work environment, ensuring better well-being and efficiency for security personnel.

Éducation Environnementale et Gestion des Déchets Solides En Milieu Scolaire « cas de l’Institut Pédagogique Mokengeli de Lemba à Kinshasa-RDC » []


Résumé La gestion des déchets pose problème dans tous les secteurs d’activités humaines et ces dits déchets sont au cœur de la problématique environnementale. Soucieux de la préservation de l’environnement, l’État congolais par le biais du Ministère de l’Enseignement Primaire, Secondaire et Technique a mis dans le programme national des cours relatifs à la conservation de la nature ou de l’environnement, notamment celui de géographie. Malgré ce programme de cours, la gestion des déchets en milieu scolaire se fait de manière inappropriée. Ainsi, l’Institut Pédagogique Mokengeli de Lemba est victime d’insalubrité dans les salles de classe, de professeurs et dans la cour scolaire. L’objectif de cette étude est d’analyser les systèmes de gestion des déchets solides dans ledit Institut. La méthode basée sur la revue de la littérature, l’enquête sur terrain et l’observation directe ainsi que, l’inventaire de l’existant nous a permis collecter les données. Les résultats ont démontré que, 100 % des salles de classe ne disposent pas de matériels de collecte des déchets. Le petit panier, soit 80%, et des seaux en plastique de grande taille soit 20%, ont été les plus utilisés, alors par manque de bac à ordures, la collecte des déchets se fait à ciel ouvert dans des différents coins de l’école, provoquant ainsi une dégradation environnementale. L’absence d’une sensibilisation de masse relative à la conservation de la nature ou de l’environnement, laisse des empreintes de dégradation dans ce milieu scolaire. Mots clés : gestion des déchets solides, récolte, sensibilisation, poubelle, insalubrité, dégradation, environnement.

A CRITICAL REVIEW OF THE PROBLEM OF MISSING MASS» []


The present communication proposes to undertake a review of the problem dark matter with a purose to investigate and understand the mysteries connected with oriin, evolution, formation, nature, content and ultimate fate of the entire universe at large and the composition of matter in the universe in particular. Botht the observational evidences and the experimental findings have confirmed that dark matter is broadly composed of Baryonic Matter (i.e. ordinary matter) and Non-Baryonic Matter, which is further divide into Hot Dark Matter (HDM) and Cold Dark Matter (CDM). The present communication attempts to underline the details of these contents of dark matter including the implications connected with the concepts of dark energy, responsible for the accelerating pace of the universe's ongoing expansion and flat geometry. the inportance of the consmological constant in reference to dark energy has also been brought home.

Geotechnical Bases for Failure of Some Highway Subgrade Soils of Kwaita-Kwali Road, North Central Nigeria. []


Abstract This study investigates the geotechnical properties and classification of subgrade soils in failed sections of the Kwaita-Yangoji expressway along the Abuja highway. Three fresh rock and disturbed soil samples were systematically collected from a depth of 0.5–1.0 m at 500 m intervals. Laboratory tests included specific gravity, grain size distribution, Atterberg limits, linear shrinkage, compaction, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). Results showed significant variations in soil properties due to mineralogical composition and weathering. Using the USCS, Yangoji was classified as CL (Clay of low plasticity) and Kwali as CL-ML (Silty clay of low plasticity). AASHTO classification identified Kwaita and Yangoji as A-7-6 (poor clayey soils) and Kwali as A-6 (clayey-silty soil requiring treatment). High fines content increased OMC, making compaction more difficult, whereas higher Gs values correlated with higher MDD, enhancing construction suitability. Yangoji exhibited the best subgrade properties (MDD = 3225 kg/m³, CBR = 23.01%), explaining its stable road conditions. Conversely, Kwali had low CBR (3.17%) and high OMC (8.0%), contributing to highway failure. Regression analysis confirmed strong correlations between Gs, % fines, PI, SL, MDD, and OMC (R² = 0.895–0.998), all statistically significant (p < 0.05). These findings provide critical insights into subgrade behaviour and emphasize the need for stabilization in weak soils for long-term durability. Key words: Geotechnical investigations, Subgrade Soils, failed Highway, Kwaita-kwali road Word count:223 Phone: +234 805 5544 9253

E-BIKE USER IN LAOAG CITY, ILOCOS NORTE []


This study explored the awareness of electric bike (e-bike) users regarding traffic rules and regulations in Laoag City, Philippines. As e-bikes gained popularity for their environmental benefits, concerns about road safety and compliance with traffic laws emerged. This study identified factors influencing e-bike use, their level of awareness regarding the traffic rules and regulations and assessed the challenges that traffic enforcers faced in enforcing the rules. This study employed a mixed research methodology and an explanatory design. Data was collected from 107 e-bike users and 34 traffic enforcers through survey questionnaires and follow-up interviews. The study was conducted in Brgy. 1 San Lorenzo, Brgy. 2 Santa Joaquina, Brgy. 6 San Agustin, Brgy. 8 San Vicente, Brgy. 10 San Jose, Brgy. 18 San Quirino, Brgy. 21 San Pedro, Brgy. 23 San Matias, Brgy. 25 Santa Cayatana, and Brgy. 29 Santo Tomas, Laag City, Ilocos Norte. Findings revealed that a key motivator for drivers choosing e-bikes was their desire to contribute to environmental protection, with 72.89% of respondents citing this factor. The researchers concluded that the level of awareness of e-bike users regarding traffic rules and regulations was inadequate, particularly regarding the requirement that only those holding a motorcycle license were permitted to operate an e-bike, which garnered 3.04% awareness. Regarding the challenges faced by traffic enforcers in enforcing traffic rules and regulations for e-bike users, the study showed that many e-bike users were unfamiliar with basic road rules. It was revealed that traffic enforcers frequently encountered e-bike users who did not know how to cross intersections safely. Based on the data gathered, the researchers recommended the following: First, e-bike users should familiarize themselves with existing traffic rules and regulations, particularly those pertaining to e-bikes. Next, the Land Transportation Office may consider mandating that e-bike users complete a safety seminar before obtaining an e-bike. Finally, the Traffic Division and Data Center College of the Philippines- College of Criminal Justice Education may consider posting the informative video presentation created by the researchers through their social media platforms.