Abstract: Skin aging is a complex process influenced by oxidative stress, inflammation, and enzymatic activities that compromise essential proteins for structural integrity and promote hyperpigmentation. These processes result in wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and uneven skin tone making them central targets in cosmeceutical development. Conventional antioxidants and depigmenting agents often exhibit limitations such as instability and adverse effects thereby prompting the search for novel synthetic scaffolds with improved efficacy and safety. This study focused on the evaluation of arylated thiosemicarbazone derivatives as antioxidant agents for cosmetic applications. The primary goal was to determine their antioxidant properties. Specifically, antioxidant activity was assessed through DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays. Results demonstrated that all tested compounds exhibited dose-dependent antioxidant activity with the highest activity observed at 1000 µM. Among the series, compound 000A demonstrated the strongest antioxidant activity achieving 55.7% scavenging in the DPPH assay and 39.9% in the ABTS assay although its efficacy remained lower compared to the reference standard ascorbic acid. Structural analysis indicated that unsubstituted aromatic rings enhanced radical stabilization, while electron-withdrawing substituents and steric hindrance limited its activity. In conclusion, arylated thiosemicarbazone derivatives, particularly compound 000A, demonstrates a promising scaffold for the development of anti-aging cosmeceuticals. Furthermore, these findings highlight the importance of structural features in modulating compounds to improve its biological activity.
Key Words: Thiosemicarbazone; antioxidant; skin-aging
Abstract: Fish biodiversity and ecological health in Iligan Bay, Northern Mindanao, were assessed through analysis of species composition, catch abundance, and catch per unit effort (CPUE). Monthly landing surveys conducted from April to August 2025 at Linamon, Calangahan, and Manticao recorded twelve fish species from seven families, including Scombridae, Clupeidae, Engraulidae, Balistidae, Belonidae, Mugilidae, and Carangidae. Results revealed Bali sardine (Sardinella lemuru) as the most abundant species (40.70%), followed by anchovy (Encrasicholina oligobranchus, 13.43%) and bigeye scad (Selar crumenophthalmus, 11.33%). The dominance of these small pelagic fishes indicates a shift in catch composition from historically larger, high-trophic-level species to smaller, fast-growing species, reflecting national patterns of overfishing and ecosystem decline. CPUE values showed spatial variation: Sigpaw and Gillnets yielded the highest catches in Calangahan, while Castnets were more productive in Linamon and Punta Silum. These outcomes highlight the influence of gear selectivity, habitat conditions, and localized fishing pressure. The heavy reliance on small pelagic resources underscores the vulnerability of small-scale fishers to declining stocks and competition with commercial fleets. The findings provide an important baseline for sustainable fisheries management in Iligan Bay, emphasizing the need for effective monitoring, gear regulation, and habitat conservation to secure biodiversity and the livelihoods of fishers.
Key Words: ligan Bay, fish composition, catch per unit effort, small pelagic fisheries
Abstract: Orthoptera species are effective bioindicators due to their sensitivity to environmental changes, particularly those linked to climate change, making their acoustic behavior a reliable measure of ecosystem health. Recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence, particularly in Machine Learning, enabled automated detection and classification of these species through their bioacoustics signals. The WaveNet model, which processes raw audio and learns to distinguish the unique waveforms of different species, was used in this study. This effectively captures temporal patterns in sound, featuring causal and dilated convolutions that enable accurate species classification. WaveNet has achieved a precision, recall, and F1-score of 98.0%. The WaveNet model was successfully deployed on a Jetson Nano, a compact edge computing device equipped with a MEMS microphone, allowing real-time recording, processing, and analysis of insect sounds directly in the field.
Key Words: Orthoptera species; Machine Learning; Edge Computing Device; Jetson Nano; WaveNet
Abstract: This study investigated seeded magnesium carbonation for mineral-based CO2 capture. In a semi-batch reactor set-up, with optimal operational parameters identified: high initial carbonate (15 mM), pH 10, a 1:1 magnesium to carbonate ratio, and 200 rpm stirring, all enhancing reaction kinetics and granule formation. Subsequently, in a fluidized bed reactor (FBR) application, increasing the seed dose improves carbonate removal but diminishes granulation due to excessive nucleation, highlighting the need to optimize seed load for balanced efficiency and granule size. With comprehensive product characterization (FTIR, SEM, TGA, XRD), confirmed hydrated magnesium carbonate synthesis, primarily well-ordered hydromagnesite. This product exhibited unique hierarchical lamellar morphology and a three-stage decomposition, affirming its stability for long-term CO2 storage. Experimental results consistently validated thermodynamic predictions from Visual MINTEQ, reinforcing speciation modeling reliability and establishing key trends in reaction efficiency, product morphology, and process behavior. This research provides essential baseline data for future optimization and scale-up of seeded magnesium carbonation in FBRs, significantly advancing mineral-based carbon capture technologies.
Key Words: carbon sequestration; magnesium carbonation; CO2 capture; fluidized bed reactor; mineral carbonation
Abstract: Composite materials consist of a matrix and a filler, which, although immiscible, work synergistically to enhance strength and reduce weight, making them ideal for portable structural applications. Polymers are commonly used but often lack the required mechanical strength. To address this limitation, CerMetaCS, a ceramic–metal composite, was developed to enhance the performance of ceramic–polymer systems. Ceramic inserts from mining silt waste, with a high modulus of rupture, were used as fillers in an aluminum matrix for ballistic applications. Two fabrication routes were tested: investment casting and permanent mold. Investment casting failed to form complete layers, making the permanent mold a more suitable method for CerMetaCS fabrication. Characterization confirmed the suitability of local Nickel and Gold Mine Wastes (high Fe2O3, SiO2) as reinforcement. Ballistic tests showed ceramic-reinforced composites outperformed monolithic aluminum, demonstrating both enhanced impact resistance and a sustainable approach to waste valorization.
Key Words: cermet; composite materials; ceramic-metal composite; mining wastes; sustainable materials; waste valorization
Abstract: In the Philippines, the hot and humid climate makes natural ventilation essential, particularly since many households rely on single-sided façades and cannot afford air-conditioning. A widely used passive solution is the wing wall, which channels outdoor wind into the living space to improve airflow and cooling. However, conventional wing walls are inherently limited: their performance depends heavily on wind speed, direction, and installation angle, meaning one fixed design cannot ensure consistent ventilation. To address this challenge, our project introduces a data-driven, adaptive wing wall window that automatically adjusts in real time to changing wind conditions. The study begins with controlled wind-tunnel experiments that reproduce atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) behavior. Using the tracer gas method, we evaluate ventilation effectiveness and then construct a prototype. Experimental results are used to train an artificial neural network (ANN), which generates predictive airflow response curves. These predictions are further validated with CFD simulations before being integrated into the automated prototype. The expected outcome is an intelligent, responsive window system that not only enhances indoor air quality and comfort but also reduces reliance on energy-intensive air-conditioning. By aligning passive design with machine learning, the project aims to deliver a scalable solution for healthier and more sustainable homes in the Philippines.
Key Words: Wing wall, Wing wall window, Automated adjustable wing wall window prototype, Ventilation, Single-sided ventilation, CFD, Air Change Rate, Purging Flow Rate
Abstract: The depletion of high-grade gold ores and the environmental impacts of traditional cyanidation have prompted the exploration of alternative gold recovery methods. Inspired by the previous study of Zoleta et al. (2023), which demonstrated the use of aluminum powder as a cementation agent for selective gold recovery, this research investigates the use of cast aluminum derived from recycled cans as a cost-effective and safer alternative to zero-valent aluminum powder for recovering gold from refractory gold ores using copper ammoniacal thiosulfate solution. Two anodic cementation reactor prototypes were designed using SOLIDWORKS and fabricated through sand casting. The experiments examined the effects of reactor design, agitation speed, cementation time, and iron oxide addition on gold recovery selectivity. Gold and copper recoveries were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES), while the surface morphology and elemental composition of the iron oxide before and after cementation were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Results showed that Au recovery remained consistently high, ranging from 97.19% to 98.17%. Notably, the A1B2R2 configuration—combining low agitation, extended contact time, and Reactor 2—achieved the lowest Cu recovery at 26.44%, indicating strong selectivity toward gold. These findings demonstrate the practical potential of using cast aluminum reactors made from recycled cans for safer, selective, and cost-effective gold recovery from refractory ores.
Key Words: Selective Cementation; Refractory Gold Ores; Cast Aluminum Reactor; Ammoniacal Thiosulfate; Gold Recovery
Abstract: This paper presents an alternative material for a three-phase induction motor stator core using epoxy resin and black sand. The epoxy resin acts as a binder, while the black sand works as the magnetic material of the stator core. The epoxy base resin stator core has 36 slots, 62 turns per coil per phase per pole, and is wound in a concentric configuration. It uses 22AWG magnetic wire, and the coil is arranged in a 4-pole configuration. The test is conducted with a varying input voltage from 20V to 140V with an increment of 10V per test. The testing results show that the motor starts to rotate when the applied input voltage is at 90V with an average line current of 1.16A, and increasing the input voltage to 140V with an average line current is at 1.2A. The rotor speed of the motor ranges from 1750 rpm to 1850 rpm, respectively. All tests conducted are at no load condition.
Key Words: epoxy resin binder; black sand magnetic properties; black sand permeability; induction motor stator; stator core sheets
Abstract: This study explores the readiness of two barangays in Iligan City to adopt smart village initiatives using the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework. A qualitative case study design was employed, drawing on semi-structured interviews with barangay officials and secondary data. The findings show that while both barangays have started digital initiatives, differences emerge in their technological capacity, organizational structures, and environmental support. Barangay 1, with its larger population and agricultural-business profile, has invested in advanced ICT tools and partnerships, while Barangay 2, a smaller coastal barangay, remains in a transitional phase but has identified ambitious plans for ICT-based services. Common challenges include limited budgets, weak institutionalization of ICT roles, and dependency on external actors. The study contributes to the growing literature on smart villages by highlighting how local context shapes
readiness and by emphasizing the need for integrated strategies that combine infrastructure,
human capacity, and multi-level governance support.
Key Words: smart village; readiness; case study; TOE framework
Abstract: Goat livestock plays a vital role in the economy by providing milk and meat, while also supporting household nutrition and livelihoods, particularly among the poor and smallholder farmers. Despite their importance, goats are highly susceptible to tick infestations, which not only cause direct harm, such as irritation and anemia, but also facilitate the transmission of tick-borne pathogens like Anaplasma species, the causative agents of anaplasmosis. In the Philippines, molecular studies on Anaplasma infections in goats remain limited and have largely focused on major cities, with no reported detection of Anaplasma directly from goat-associated ticks. To address this gap, this study screened DNA extracted from goat blood using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the Anaplasma 16S rRNA gene. Of the 30 goat blood samples tested, 3.33% (1/30) were positive for Anaplasma. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a close relationship to A. phagocytophilum, and further genetic comparison showed similarity to the Ap-ha strain, a major variant of A. phagocytophilum that are known to be associated with humans. However, further studies are necessary to confirm its precise identity and to rule out the possibility that it represents a novel or unclassified Anaplasma species. This study provides the first molecular evidence of Anaplasma infection in goats from Northern Mindanao, Philippines, and offers valuable insights into the presence of tick-borne pathogens affecting livestock in the region.
Key Words: anaplasmosis, Ap-ha strain, phylogenetic analysis, tick-borne pathogens, 16S rRNA
Abstract: Lake Buluan, the third-largest lake in the Philippines, sustains rich aquatic biodiversity and supports extensive aquaculture. However, decades of anthropogenic pressures, including domestic wastewater, aquaculture effluents, and agricultural runoff, have degraded water quality. This study assessed morphologically, the composition and distribution of freshwater diatoms across six stations inside and outside fish pens to evaluate their potential as bioindicators of ecological change. Nineteen species were recorded, with 11 present in both inside (IFB) and outside (OFB) fish pens. Dominant taxa—Nitzschia serpentiraphe, Gomphonema montanum, and Aulacoseira islandica—occurred at nearly all stations and are linked to nutrient-rich sediments and organic pollution. Site-specific patterns emerged: Nitzschia liebethruthii dominated IFB1 and IFB3 but was absent in IFB2 and most OFB sites, whereas Nitzschia inconspicua showed the opposite trend. The exclusive occurrence of Eunotia monodon and Cymbella tumida in OFB stations suggests more acidic or oligotrophic conditions outside enclosures. Rare taxa (Sellaphora sp., Grammatophora angulosa) contributed to richness in non-enclosed areas. Moreover, next-generation sequencing (NGS) data confirmed the dominance of Nitzschia spp., indicating mild environmental stress and ecological plasticity which is, typical for tropical shallow lakes. Findings underscore diatom monitoring as a sensitive, cost-effective tool for assessing aquaculture impacts and advocate its integration into freshwater ecosystem management.
Key Words: diatom, lake, bioindicators, aquaculture
Abstract: This study investigates the extraction of calcium oxide (CaO) from waste mussel shells (Mytella strigata) as a precursor for synthesizing bioceramics, specifically hydroxyapatite (HAp). Mussel shells, a byproduct of the seafood industry, are rich in minerals, particularly calcium. Additionally, they contain a significant amount of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which can be thermally decomposed into calcium oxide through calcination at temperatures ranging from 700°C to 1000°C. Consequently, innovation is essential to maximize the utilization of mussel shells. The extracted CaO serves as a key raw material in the synthesis of bioceramics, which are recognized for their biocompatibility, bioactivity, and applications in medical fields such as bone prosthetics and tissue engineering. Characterization techniques like X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to ensure the purity and suitability of the calcium oxide for bioceramic production. This process provides a sustainable, low-cost alternative to traditional methods of obtaining calcium precursors while also promoting the recycling of waste materials. The study highlights the potential of utilizing waste mussel shells as a renewable source for calcium oxide, contributing to the utilization of hydroxyapatite non-medical applications.
Key Words: waste mussel shells; calcium oxide; calcium carbonate; morphology; composition
Abstract: Amid growing environmental concerns and biomass waste accumulation, this study aims to valorize cassava pulp—a readily available agricultural by-product in the Philippines—by producing nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC), a high-value material with broad industrial applications and sustainability potential. This study explores the synthesis and characterization of NCC extracted from waste cassava pulp sourced in Northern Mindanao, Philippines. Extraction was performed via mixed acid hydrolysis using formic acid and sulfuric acid, following alkaline pretreatment with sodium hydroxide and bleaching with sodium hypochlorite. The effects of acid concentration, temperature (70–90°C), and hydrolysis time (1–6 hours) on extraction yield were investigated. Results showed that increasing these parameters initially improved yield, but excessive values led to a decline. Optimization yielded the most favorable conditions at 71 wt% formic acid, 77°C, and 3.6 hours, achieving an extraction yield of 67.272%± 2.295%. FTIR confirmed successful removal of lignin and hemicellulose, while SEM and dynamic light scattering (DLS) revealed nano-sized cellulose particles ranging from 15 nm to 687 nm.
Key Words: nanocrystalline cellulose; mixed acid hydrolysis; waste cassava pulp; supercapacitor; energy storage
Abstract: Incorporating nanoscale reinforcements into polymer matrices offers an effective way to enhance the multifunctional performance of polymer nanocomposites. Carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs) are widely explored for this purpose because of their exceptional strength, stability, and large interfacial surface area that enable efficient stress transfer. Among them, diamond nanothreads (DNTs) have attracted attention for their one-dimensional sp³-bonded framework and hydrogen-terminated surfaces, which impart remarkable tensile strength, stiffness, and torsional resistance. Extending this concept, carbon nitride nanothreads (CNNTHs) have emerged as new candidates. The incorporation of nitrogen atoms enhances their structural versatility and narrows their electronic band gaps, making them attractive for designing polymer nanocomposites that combine robust mechanical properties with tunable electronic properties. This study employs first-principles simulations to explore the interfacial interactions and electronic properties of CNNTH/polymer nanocomposites. Cellulose and epoxy matrices were modeled in various orientations relative to CNNTHs. Charge Density Difference (CDD) and Electron Localization Function (ELF) analyses revealed charge redistribution primarily along the interface, with no ELF overlap, indicating interactions dominated by van der Waals forces. Electronic structure calculations further showed a 1 eV reduction in band gap compared to DNT/polymer systems. These results demonstrate CNNTHs’ potential as reinforcements for high-performance polymer nanocomposites in advanced structural systems and flexible electronics.
Key Words: polymer; CNNTH; nanocomposites; electronic properties
Rice husk is one of the most abundant agricultural by-products in the Philippines, comprising about 20% of harvested rice by weight. Its disposal through open burning produces rice husk ash (RHA), which poses environmental risks such as air pollution, soil alkalinity alteration, and uncontrolled ash accumulation. At the same time, RHA is a rich source of silica, containing up to 80–98 wt.% SiO₂, making it a promising raw material for value-added applications. This study aims to valorize RHA by synthesizing porous silicate particles (SPPs) through a simple process. Silica (SiO₂) was extracted from calcined RHA (700 °C) via acid treatment and subsequently synthesized into sodium silicate using NaOH solution of varying concentrations. The sodium silicate served as the precursor for SPP synthesis via the emulsion method. Sodium silicate was characterized by XRF and FTIR, while the synthesized SPPs were analyzed using N₂ adsorption–desorption (BET–BJH) to evaluate porosity. Results revealed that RHA-derived SPPs exhibit mixed micro–mesoporous silicate structures. The result of this study demonstrates that RHA can be effectively repurposed into high-quality SPPs, addressing waste management concerns while providing a sustainable silica source for advanced material applications.
Abstract: Cancel culture is reshaping consumer-brand dynamics, yet little is known about what drives Filipino consumers to engage in such behavior. This study investigates the predictors of consumers’ intention to cancel brands in the Philippines, using the Theory of Planned Behavior and incorporating demographic variables. Understanding this phenomenon is vital for businesses operating in the region, where social media activism is on the rise. A quantitative design using PLS-SEM analyzed responses from 385 participants across generations and regions. Findings reveal that attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control significantly shape cancel intentions. Notably, age and region—specifically, younger consumers and those from Visayas and Mindanao—are strong antecedents. These groups are more susceptible to social influence, have stronger self-efficacy, and express a more favorable view of canceling brands. Recommendations include culturally sensitive reputation management and localized consumer sentiment tracking. Brands must actively align values and quickly respond to controversy with concrete corrective actions.
Key Words: cancel culture; consumer behavior; theory of planned behavior; brand boycott; Philippines; PLS-SEM
Abstract: Dengue remains one of the most critical public health challenges in the Philippines. In the absence of an effective vaccine, the most practical means of mitigating its spread involves reducing the mosquito population and minimizing human exposure to mosquito bites. This study introduces vector and human-based control strategies, with a particular emphasis on transmission reduction. A modified Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) dengue model, based on the work of de los Reyes and Escaner, is used to incorporate these interventions. Numerical simulations are conducted to evaluate the impact of the proposed controls when applied individually and in combination. The results show that sustained maximum control efforts throughout the year significantly reduce infection levels. Notably, the simultaneous implementation of both strategies at full intensity yields the most substantial decline in dengue cases. These insights can aid public health authorities in designing more effective dengue prevention programs in the absence of vaccination.
Key Words: Vector Control; Human Control; Dengue Vaccine; Optimal Control; Pontryagin's Maximum Principle
Abstract: This study applies a graph-theoretic framework to optimize traffic flow in Iligan City by integrating three key network algorithms: Dijkstra’s algorithm for computing the shortest paths, the Edmonds-Karp variant of the Ford-Fulkerson algorithm for determining maximum flow, and Google OR-Tools for solving the capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (CVRP). The road network is modeled as a directed graph, where intersections are nodes and road segments are edges with length- and capacity-based constraints. The study introduces an Integrated Traffic Flow Optimization Theorem, which formalizes the conditions under which a feasible and congestion-minimizing traffic assignment exists. Empirical data from Iligan City's road infrastructure validate the theorem, with computational results demonstrating effective shortest routing, maximized throughput between critical nodes, and feasible vehicle dispatch routes under demand constraints.
Key Words: traffic, network optimization, algorithm, Iligan City
Abstract: Abstract: The growing utilization of agro-industrial byproducts presents both challenges and opportunities for developing countries. In the Philippines, cassava and coffee processing generate significant wastes, particularly cassava peel (CP) and coffee husk (CH). This study explored the production of nutrient-rich hydrolysate liquor from CP and CH through hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) at 190°C for 30 minutes under varying blend ratios. The hydrolysate liquors obtained had mass yields ranging from 48.63% to 81.96% and exhibited acidic pH values (3.34-4.14). Elemental analysis showed that 100% CP produced the highest iron (89.4 mg/L) and magnesium (680.68 mg/L) concentrations, whereas 100% CH yielded the highest phosphate (520 mg/L) and phosphorus (169.59 mg/L) levels. The 50% CP–50% CH blend yielded the highest calcium content (616.15 mg/L). Optimization identified an optimal mixture of 73.8% CP and 26.2% CH, achieving less than 10% error between predicted and experimental values for most parameters, excluding ammonia and nitrogen. These findings highlight HTC as a viable approach for recovering inorganic nutrients from CP and CH, though further optimization is needed for consistency and potential application.
Key Words: hydrothermal carbonization; hydrolysate liquor; cassava peels; coffee husks; nutrient optimization.
Abstract: Evaluating road damage conditions makes informed maintenance decisions. Distresses, such as cracking, diminish pavement functionality and reduce its service life. However, a thorough evaluation should also consider additional factors, such as obstructions (e.g., vehicles, large trees, shadows, and wet areas), to provide a comprehensive assessment of road conditions. Traditional road inspection methods are time-consuming, hazardous, and susceptible to human error. Therefore, automating the classification of pavement conditions can streamline road inspection and maintenance processes. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have proven to be effective tools for rapidly collecting data, particularly in remote areas where assessing damage can be difficult. In this project, the proponents investigated new methods that can accelerate drone-based computer-vision assisted pavement inspection. The contributions of this work are summarized in three parts: (i) an AI-driven road lane tracking system, (ii) a new cascaded reconstruction and localization method of a 2D road map given UAV imagery, and (iii) a software application with AI-recommended reports.
Key Words: Aerial Systems: Applications; Automation Technologies for Smart Cities; Computer Vision for Transportation; Deep Learning Methods; Object Detection, Segmentation, and Categorization
Abstract: The Dinagat Islands, located in the Caraga Region of the Philippines, possess a rich linguistic and cultural heritage that significantly shapes local environmental practices. This study investigates how language and culture influence environmental stewardship and sustainable resource management in selected municipalities and barangays of the islands. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 150 community members, including elders, fisherfolk, teachers, youth, and local leaders, through surveys, focus group discussions, participant observation, and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were applied to quantify language use, assess environmental awareness, and identify recurring cultural practices supporting ecological responsibility. Results reveal that 82% of respondents primarily use local dialects in environmental discourse, with Filipino and English accounting for 12% and 6%, respectively. Community participation in cultural practices—such as traditional fishing taboos, rituals, festivals, and storytelling—ranged from 58% to 76%, and high retention of language and cultural practices correlated with 85% engagement in environmental activities. The findings underscore the strong connection between linguistic and cultural preservation and pro-environmental behavior, highlighting the role of oral traditions, local terminologies, and rituals as informal regulatory systems. Declining use of local languages and reduced cultural participation pose risks to sustainable practices. Strategies emphasizing the integration of local language education, documentation of indigenous knowledge, and youth engagement are essential to strengthen environmental stewardship. This study affirms that preserving language and cultural heritage is crucial not only for maintaining community identity but also for promoting ecologically responsible behaviors and sustainable development.
Key Words: Dinagat; Islands, language; culture, environmental stewardship; indigenous knowledge
Abstract: Non-compliance with hygiene protocols—such as wearing a mask or hairnet, and performing proper handwashing—in food manufacturing facilities contributes to food contamination, thereby compromising product quality, consumer trust, and brand integrity. Manual inspection methods used to monitor compliance are susceptible to human error and lack objectivity. Thus, the need for an automated solution is prominent. In response, this study developed a cabin-based system integrated with two YOLOv8-trained models: one for detecting mask and hairnet usage, and another for recognizing handwashing gestures. These models were deployed on a mini-computer (Dell OptiPlex 3080). The compliance system follows the protocol outlined as follows: (i) personnel identification via RFID scanning of the employee card, (ii) detection of mask and hairnet usage through camera input, (iii) sequential detection of handwashing gestures, (iv) regulation of door access to food manufacturing areas based on the evaluation outcome, and (v) recording of compliance results for supervisory review. The system achieved a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 99.2% for mask and hairnet compliance, and 92.7% for handwashing compliance. These experimental results support the system’s potential for deployment in food manufacturing settings to facilitate compliance monitoring and reinforce food safety assurance.
Key Words: computer vision, food manufacturing, hygiene compliance, object detection
Abstract: This study investigates the awareness, alignment, and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within Iligan City’s Local Government Unit (LGU) and its 44 Barangay Local Government Units (BLGUs). Using a mixed- methods design, the research involved 528 respondents through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with LGU and BLGU officials and staff, aiming to measure awareness levels, identify dissemination practices, assess integration into development plans, and explore implementation barriers and enabling strategies. Results reveal a
moderate level of awareness among BLGU officials, with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 1 (No Poverty) being the most recognized. While a majority reported partial integration of SDGs into local policies, limited resources, lack of technical capacity, and minimal data monitoring were noted as critical challenges. Correlation analysis showed that higher awareness levels were moderately linked to greater involvement and perceived effectiveness of implementation strategies. Capacity-building initiatives, community engagement, and collaboration with government and civil society were cited as key enablers. The study underscores the need for sustained capacity development, improved policy alignment, and strengthened institutional mechanisms to foster deeper SDG localization.
Key Words: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); SDG localization; local governance; Iligan City barangay governance; awareness; policy integration; capacity development; community engagement
Abstract: Traditional taxonomy, the most widely used method for examining and naming species, relies primarily on morphological characteristics, it has long served as the foundation of biological systematics and remains a vital tool in biodiversity research for species identification and classification. In the Philippines, there are currently 17 valid species of tarantulas distributed across five genera. This paper will morphologically describe the tarantulas collected and comprehensively provide their distinct characters from five sampling areas in Mindanao. The Unified Species Concept was applied as the criterion for classifying and identifying tarantula species. The specimens were preserved and examined using a standardized protocol. The findings revealed five distinct species under the subfamily Selenocosmiinae, Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 1 “JRMPL,” Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 2 “Cinchona,” Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 3 “Jamboree,” and Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 4 “Kalagonoy,” including a newly described species, Orphnaecus mimbilisanensis sp. nov., which is morphologically distinct from other known Mindanao species. The five species possessed a unique spermathecal morphology with distinct formations among congeners. The palpal bulb of two species (O. mimbilisanensis and Selenocosmiinae gen. sp. 1 “JRMPL”) varied in embolus and tegulum measurement. O. mimbilisanensis sp. nov. exhibited a distinct high carapace profile and is the largest in size among its congeners. This study underscores the importance of morphological taxonomy in resolving species relationships and refining classifications, contributing to a deeper understanding of biodiversity. This highlights the Philippines’ rich yet vulnerable tarantula diversity; this work reinforces the need for targeted conservation efforts and continued scientific exploration to safeguard these unique species.
Key Words: Morphology, Orphnaecus, Selenocosmiinae, spermathecae, Unified Species Concept
Abstract: Abstract: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential for ensuring indoor thermal comfort, humidity regulation, and air quality, yet they remain one of the largest contributors to global energy consumption. Improving the efficiency of heat exchangers within HVAC systems is therefore a critical step toward sustainable energy use. Conventional turbulence generators (TGs) have been widely applied to enhance heat transfer in traditional exchangers; however, their potential in membrane-based systems for simultaneous heat and moisture recovery remains underexplored. This study evaluates the effect of TGs on the thermal and mass transfer performance of a membrane quasi-counterflow heat exchanger using both experimental measurements and computational simulations in ANSYS Fluent. Results indicate that TG integration with inline arrangements significantly improves exchanger performance compared to smooth-channel designs. Quarter-circle TGs with a 3 mm diameter and 4 mm height yielded maximum sensible, latent, and total effectiveness values of 81.05%, 73.94%, and 77.64%, respectively. At the highest tested mass flow rate (0.000615 kg/s), the spacer with TGs achieved improvements of 8.56% in sensible effectiveness, 2.33% in latent effectiveness, and 5.04% in total effectiveness over the baseline design, corresponding to a net recovered power gain of 12.5 W. These findings highlight the potential of TG-integrated membrane exchangers to advance next-generation energy-efficient HVAC systems.
Key Words: membrane heat exchanger, turbulence generator, sensible effectiveness, latent effectiveness
Abstract: The university consumes a huge amount of electrical energy. High electricity consumption can significantly impact both its finances and carbon footprint. Energy auditing is one of the first phase of achieving energy efficiency and reduction of carbon footprint. This study delivers the first phase of standard energy audit procedures at MSU-IIT. Specifically, the objectives are to quantify the total amount of electrical energy consumed and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by conducting a comprehensive diagnostic energy audit at selected buildings at MSU-IIT. Illuminance levels, temperature, humidity tests and assessment of energy-psychosocial factors of students were also conducted in this study. The study shows that the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) consumes the highest amount of energy consumed. The main contributor to high-energy consumption and emissions in the university were attributed to inefficient air-conditioning (AC) units, the disproportion sizing of AC units relative to floor areas, low thermostat settings and poor energy-related psychosocial factors among students. Also, illuminance ratings of most of the buildings were identified as under-illuminance, which can negatively affect task performances and may impair the eyesight of the students, faculty and staff. The findings underscore the urgent need to substantially reduce in two ways: First, the technological efficiency and renewable sources. Secondly, sustainable energy practices.
Key Words: Energy audit; Climate Change; Energy Consumption; Buildings, Behavior
