Vol. 3, Issue 1

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This study explored the challenges encountered by teachers during the implementation of Catch-Up Fridays, specifically in terms of reading comprehension, values education, peace education, and health education. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the research employed semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to gather insights from selected participants. Findings revealed that teachers faced significant challenges, such as limited instructional time, lack of resources, and difficulties in aligning activities with students’ diverse needs. Despite these drawbacks, teachers demonstrated resilience by employing strategies such as integrating technology, fostering collaborative learning, and implementing creative teaching techniques to enhance learning outcomes. Recommendations emphasized the need for targeted professional development programs, access to teaching aids, and the promotion of teacher collaboration to address these challenges effectively. Overall, the study underscores the importance of adaptive and resourceful teaching practices in optimizing the effectiveness of Catch-Up Fridays.

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This study aimed to assess the level of acceptance and perceived impact of DepEd Order No. 21, Series of 2023, among selected public elementary teachers in Balayan, Batangas, focusing on its influence on teaching practices and pupil learning. The study employed an explanatory sequential mixed-method approach, beginning with a quantitative survey and followed by qualitative interviews. The participants consisted of 30 teachers from public elementary schools that participated in the Brigada Eskwela program. The results revealed that teachers generally accepted the policy, recognizing its objectives of promoting cleaner, more organized classrooms conducive to learning. However, challenges related to the removal of visual aids, particularly for younger students, were noted. Teachers experienced minimal disruption in their teaching practices, with some reporting positive effects on classroom management and material organization. While the policy improved pupil engagement by reducing distractions, it also highlighted the need for alternative strategies to support memory retention. The study found no significant differences in acceptance based on demographic factors, suggesting a uniform perception across age, gender, and years of service. Recommendations for improving the implementation of the DepEd Order include providing additional resources, professional development, and feedback mechanisms to support teachers and address logistical challenges. The study contributes to the understanding of the practical implications of DepEd Order No. 21 and offers insights for enhancing its impact on educational practices and outcomes.

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This study presents a comprehensive content analysis of punctuation and capitalization errors in Facebook posts made by Junior High School students aged 13 to 17 at Immaculate Conception College of Balayan, Inc. Data was collected from various types of posts, including personal updates, shared articles, and public comments. Employing quantitative methods, particularly Pearson Chi-Square tests, the analysis assessed the frequency of these errors and examined potential correlations between error types and student demographics. The findings revealed that punctuation errors, particularly involving commas and periods, were the most prevalent, followed by capitalization mistakes related to proper nouns and the beginning of sentences. Notably, no significant correlations were found between the frequency of errors and demographic factors such as age, sex, grade level, or duration of Facebook usage. Based on these results, the study recommends that educators implement targeted grammar lessons and increase writing exercises to address these common errors. Furthermore, it suggests that future research explore additional variables influencing grammar usage, the impact of social media on writing practices, and the broader implications of these findings. This research highlights the linguistic challenges faced by junior high school students in a social media context and provides practical recommendations for enhancing students’ writing skills.

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This study investigates the impact of the ENRICH strategy on improving reading comprehension scores among Grade 11 students. Utilizing a quasi-experimental design, the study was conducted in three phases. In Phase 1, spanning days 1 to 6, 36 Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) students from Immaculate Conception College of Balayan, Inc. engaged with six literary pieces, reading one piece per day, followed by an assessment to measure comprehension. Phase 2, occurring on days 7 and 8, involved re-reading the same literary pieces, with a second round of assessments to reinforce understanding. In the final phase, on day 9, students completed a third assessment after a final review of the texts. Data analysis revealed statistically significant improvements across the three phases, underscoring the effectiveness of repetitive reading in enhancing long-term comprehension. The findings suggest that the ENRICH strategy can effectively aid students in improving their reading comprehension, which may contribute to better academic performance, heightened reading confidence, and a more positive attitude towards learning. Based on these results, the study advocates for the ENRICH strategy as a valuable tool for bolstering reading comprehension, particularly for students struggling with complex texts. Additionally, it recommends the integration of digital tools and interactive methods to sustain engagement and further enhance reading skills. These insights offer educators and institutions actionable strategies to support literacy development and promote academic success.

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The overuse of social media, including the growing mistrust of mainstream news outlets has impacted the increasing influence of online disinformation. Social media has been a powerful tool in Philippine elections because of social media algorithms used by political parties to deploy fake news and damage their rivals. Political fake news on social media began last 2016 and became rampant in the 2022 presidential election when the candidates for the presidency were all victims of trolling. Mainstream media debunked fake news but because of political partisanship, the effort has been useless due to different political beliefs and parties. The methodology involves content analysis to systematically examine social media posts related to political disinformation during the 2022 presidential election specifically focused on identifying two reactions, the emotion-driven and reason-based comments. Most of the comments were emotional and contained sarcasm, threats, slander, and mockery. People’s logical thought processes are influenced by their emotions. Users are frequently looking for information to confirm their existing views and reject or ignore information that contradicts them or is biased in favor of one political party over another. Educating the critical analysis key to both students and social media users is one of the advocacies to avoid spreading fake news in the next generations. In conclusion, emotional responses, such as anger and sarcasm, dominated the discourse, overshadowing reasoned discussions. Media mistrust and political partisanship shaped users’ reactions, leading to reject the fact-checked information especially when it conflicted with their political beliefs.

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One of the most significant challenges encountered by language learners is the fear of making mistakes, especially when speaking. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Write, Rise, and Respond (WRR) technique in reducing learners’ fear of making oral mistakes. The WRR technique involves writing thoughts, sharing them when ready which requires standing, and receiving constructive feedback from teachers to foster a supportive learning environment. A quasi-experimental design using quantitative data collection, including means and t-tests, was employed. Ten (10) Grade 11 students from the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand enrolled at Immaculate Conception College of Balayan Inc. for the Academic Year 2023-2024 were selected through purposive sampling. A Likert scale survey measured their fear levels. Over a three-week period, results revealed a statistically significant reduction in fear, with a general weighted mean of 3.45 for pre-activity and a general weighted mean of 1.75 for post-activity, respectively (p < 0.05). The WRR technique effectively reduced fear and enhanced confidence among Grade 11 HUMSS students, demonstrating its potential as a valuable tool in education. Building on these findings, future research could explore support programs like confidence-building workshops and one-on-one counseling, while also examining the long-term impact and broader applicability of the WRR technique across diverse student groups and educational settings.

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This study examined the opportunities and challenges faced by Filipino learners in the newly introduced Korean language course within the Special Program in Foreign Language (SPFL) and its relationship to their proficiency. Using an explanatory sequential method, the research was conducted in three phases. In Phase 1, 32 students took the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK I) and completed a survey. The results indicated that 62.5% passed TOPIK I, suggesting that more than half had a solid grasp of the Korean language. The survey revealed manageable challenges in learning Korean, with a composite mean of 1.85 and a verbal interpretation of “Disagree.” However, thematic analysis in Phase II identified specific challenges, such as difficulties with Korean tenses, particles, vocabulary, and anxiety over making mistakes, which affected students’ comprehension. In contrast, the survey indicated positive opportunities for learning Korean, with a composite mean of 3.57 and a verbal interpretation of “Strongly Agree.” Notable themes included improved college admissions, job prospects, and increased cultural awareness. Data also found no significant relationship between students’ proficiency levels—high or low—and their challenges and opportunities in learning Korean. Based on these findings, an Action Plan was proposed to enhance areas for improvement in Korean language learning for SPFL enrollees, aiming to involve school stakeholders in supporting the development of Korean language skills.

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Social media platforms serve as convenient tools for students to learn, share, and exchange information about Philippine history, providing tangible information that is beneficial to their learning progress. However, online circulation of fake news, misinformation, and biased interpretations continuously increases, threatening students’ learning. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to understand the role of social media platforms in enhancing the historical consciousness of future Social Studies educators at Immaculate Conception College of Balayan Inc. Within the framework of the qualitative method, the researchers utilized a descriptive design to explore students’ preferred social media platforms, how they enhance their Philippine historical consciousness, and how they address these challenges through the use of self-created and open-ended questions. Using a purposive sampling technique, which falls under the non-probability sampling method, the researchers selected ten (10) participants from each grade level. Additionally, thematic analysis revealed challenges faced by the students while using social media platforms, including difficulties in verifying sources, a lack of critical thinking development, and the influence of biased interpretations. The study identifies strategies to overcome the negative roles of social media, including media literacy education using fact- checking tools and collaborative efforts. In conclusion, it can facilitate the creation of social media pages ‘Journey through Time’ located in Facebook application that serve as reliable source of factual historical information while minimizing the spread of misinformation.

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This study addressed the Buy Now, Pay Later: Shopee Online Store Users Experiences on Shopee Pay Later Feature (Spay Later). The research investigated the users’ experiences using the Spay Later feature, specifically user satisfaction, convenience, financial behavior, and challenges faced. While some of the studies explored only the positive and negative impacts of the feature, there are gaps that the other studies have not identified. This study addressed the overall experience of Spay Later users, an area not fully covered in previous studies. It utilized a phenomenological study approach under a qualitative method. The participants of the study were chosen through a judgmental sampling approach, consisting of ten (10) spay later user with five thousand (5,000) pesos credit limit and a gold/platinum level. Furthermore, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions. The results indicated that the Spay Later feature is flexible and convenient. In conclusion, the Spay Later feature positively impacted the users’ experiences, it helped the users to access their needs during financial constraints and improve their budgeting skills. This study suggests to the existing and future users to moderately use the feature and apply the decision-making process effectively in every transaction.

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Recognition plays an important role in the employee’s job satisfaction and performance, yet many employees remain unnoticed for their hard work, effort and contributions. This study investigates the consequences of unrecognized efforts on the job satisfaction of Traffic Management Group (TMG) employees in the Municipality of Lemery, Batangas. Through qualitative method and case study approach, a semi-structured interviews were conducted with selected TMG employees to explore their experiences and perceptions about their experiences of lack of recognition at work. The thematic analysis revealed that TMG employees often experience frustration, burnout, and decreased motivation due to a lack of acknowledgment for their efforts. The key issues identified include unpaid overtime, handling emergencies without proper resources, and taking on responsibilities beyond their job scope without recognition. And the findings indicate that insufficient recognition contributes to emotional exhaustion, reduced morale, and decreased job performance. This study underscores the need for a structured employee recognition program to improve job satisfaction and workplace morale. Therefore, an action plan is proposed to enhance recognition practices, emphasizing the importance of appreciation, fair compensation, and improved working conditions. This research provides insights for local government units and organizations aiming to enhance employee engagement through recognition initiatives.

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Leadership in real estate is critical not only for guiding and motivating sales agents but also for maintaining a competitive edge in a fast-paced and often volatile market. This study aimed to explore the leadership styles employed by real estate brokers in Balayan, Batangas, and examining how these styles influence agents’ daily work, motivation, and overall performance. The researchers used a qualitative method with a case study design and selected five (5) real estate brokers and ten (10) real estate agents from RCD Royal Homes via judgmental sampling technique. Through athematic analysis the collected data were systematically measured and analyzed. The results indicated that effective leadership is multifaceted, with different styles contributing to various aspects of team dynamics and organizational performance. This study highlights the importance of various leadership styles, with transformational leadership being the most influential in motivating and engaging sales agents, while supportive leadership fosters a positive and collaborative work environment. However, challenges such as communication barriers, resistance to change, and operational constraints require leaders to adapt, promote open communication, and prioritize teamwork to ensure organizational success. It is recommended that real estate brokers undergo leadership training, improve communication, foster collaboration, implement feedback systems, and create mentorship opportunities to enhance performance and adaptability within their teams.

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Conflict is an inherent aspect of every organization, a rising naturally from human interactions, differing opinions, and the complex nature of work. This research aims to assess the impacts of conflicts within a department by examining various aspects of departmental conflict, including its types, sources, and consequences. The study employs a quantitative correlational research design to better understand conflicts within organizations. It focuses on selected municipalities in the first district of Batangas, specifically the towns of Balayan, Nasugbu, and Tuy. The researchers use a combination of stratified and convenience sampling methods. This approach involves categorizing the population into distinct strata based on their departments and then sampling proportionally from each stratum. The respondents are public sector employees from the Human Resources, Finance, Marketing, Operations, and Accounting departments within the selected municipalities. Statistical tools, such as weighted mean and ranking, are used to analyze the data for each research question. The findings reveal a significant correlation between the effects of conflicts within a department and the approaches employed by HR managers to address them. The researchers recommend that human resource managers regularly assess conflict levels within their departments and implement strategies for conflict resolution. Establishing a clear structure for conflict resolution is essential to improving cooperation in the workplace and mitigating the negative effects of conflicts within departments.

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Employee rights and privileges which are not just told to them but also printed within their contract have always been important, this study aimed to explore the challenges that happen in the contract renewal process at the institution Immaculate Conception College of Balayan, Inc., this study focused on any violations of the employees’ rights, the fulfillment of duties, and the impacts of trust, communication, and expectations. This research is a Case Study under the Qualitative method. The participants of the study, who were chosen by the researchers through the purposive sampling method, are composed of ten (10) current employees of Immaculate Conception College of Balayan, Inc., and two (2) of its admins. With the use of thematic analysis, the collected data was systematically analyzed. The findings indicated that the employees of Immaculate Conception College of Balayan, Inc., had no perceived violations to their rights. The employees also felt that they and the Administration had also built a strong bond of trust between themselves, making them more driven when working. This study also underscored the importance of effective communication during the contract renewal process as good and continuous communication reduced the risk of miscommunication and promoted accountability throughout the contract renewal process.

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Finding the right employees is crucial for any company’s success and effective hiring criteria is a key factor in achieve it. This study investigates the criteria in recruitment and hiring selection of Republic Gas Corporation (REGASCO) in City of Calaca, Batangas. A qualitative descriptive research design and purposive sampling was used and this study conducted semi-structured interviews with selected officers responsible for recruitment at REGASCO. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings shows that REGASCO prioritizes educational qualifications, relevant work experience, skill set, and overall job fit in their hiring policies. However, issues such as late document submissions, applicant-job role mismatches, and ineffective advertising to attract qualified personnel were identified. The study concludes that while REGASCO has managerial policies aimed at securing competent employees, recruitment barriers can be addressed through a direct employee selection program. This study proposes an action plan to improve recruitment practices, focusing on diversifying marketing channels, enhancing the pre-qualifying stage, and improving company image to attract suitable candidates. The study’s implications extend beyond REGASCO, Calaca, Batangas, offering valuable insights for other companies seeking to optimize their hiring strategies.

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This study compares the budgeting strategies of single-income and dual-income households in selected barangays in Balayan. Using a quantitative comparative research design and purposive sampling, the study surveyed 196 single income and 196 dual-income households, all of which own a home, have two children enrolled in public school (from elementary to senior high school), and earn a monthly salary ranging from Php 10,957 to Php 21,914. Data were collected through face-to-face surveys and analyzed using statistical methods. The findings reveal no significant difference in budgeting strategies between two household types, although educational attainment and monthly income do influence financial management. The study proposes an action plan to improve budgeting practices, focusing on financial literacy, income and expense management, and the establishment of an emergency fund. The study’s implications extend beyond Balayan, Batangas, offering valuable insights for other barangays in Balayan aiming to improve their budgeting strategies.

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This study investigated the experiences and insights of employees and clients regarding the top operational practices of health and beauty clinics, specifically in terms of service quality and overall performance. It explored the best operational practices of three (3) selected health and beauty clinics located in Balayan, Batangas, each of which has been established for more than five (5) years. A multiple case study approach was employed using a qualitative research method. The study consisted of nine (9) participants, categorized into three (3) groups: clients, employees, and managers. Participants were selected through judgmental sampling, a type of non-probability sampling. To gather relevant data, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions. The findings revealed that each of the selected health and beauty clinics offers unique service quality and operational practices to satisfy their customers. Overall, the study concluded that these practices contribute positively to customer satisfaction and business success.

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This study examines the different issues related to employee professionalism that HR managers face and its effects on workplace dynamics. It uses a multiple case study design under the qualitative approach. The population of this study includes five (5) human resource managers from medium-large private companies in the First District of Batangas, with a work period of more than five years. The sampling method of this study is purposive or judgmental sampling, and a semi-structured interview is used as a tool for data collection. The data were analyzed using cross-case analysis. The results of this study indicate that issues on professionalism among employees often lead to employee disengagement, a toxic working environment, and mental health issues that hinder employee performance and productivity. In addition, unprofessional behaviors also affect team performance and efficiency. It puts the company at risk by damaging its reputation, which could lead to a loss of business. Furthermore, the study’s findings show that these issues can be improved and maintained through several strategies. Finally, the results of this study suggest that HR managers must solve this problem with regards to employee professionalism by implementing strategies that cultivate collaboration, unity, and an environment that fosters a culture of accountability and respect.

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The rise of 24-hour retail stores in urban and semi-urban areas reflects the growing demand for convenience. This study examines the challenges and opportunities faced by these establishments in Batangas, Philippines, using a qualitative case study approach. Semi-structured interviews with store owners and employees reveal key operational, logistical, and regulatory difficulties. Operational challenges include inventory mismanagement, staffing shortages, and fluctuating sales. Poor stock rotation and inaccurate demand forecasting result in expired products and financial losses. Staffing, particularly for night shifts, is problematic due to high turnover and scheduling conflicts, affecting service quality. Seasonal demand fluctuations add further strain, making revenue unpredictable while operational costs remain fixed. Logistical challenges involve supply chain inefficiencies, security concerns, and inventory shortages. Dependence on external suppliers often leads to delivery delays, while theft and vandalism risks require improved security measures. Regulatory compliance adds complexity, particularly for small businesses struggling with labor laws, fair compensation, and workplace safety. Despite these challenges, opportunities for growth exist. The 24-hour model attracts customers with non-traditional schedules, such as students and night-shift workers. Personalized customer service, loyalty programs, and targeted promotions enhance engagement and retention. Technological innovations, such as automated inventory systems and digital payments, improve efficiency. To remain competitive, stores must improve inventory management, adopt flexible staffing strategies, strengthen supply chain partnerships, and enhance security. Addressing these challenges while leveraging growth opportunities ensures sustainability and long-term success in the evolving retail landscape.

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This study examines the factors influencing parental loyalty to Immaculate Conception College of Balayan, Inc. (ICCBI),with the goal of developing strategic recommendations to strengthen this relationship. Using a qualitative case study design, the researchers explored expressions of loyalty, contributing factors, and strategies for improvement through semi-structured interviews with ten purposively selected parents identified as loyal parents. The findings highlight that loyalty is fostered by ICCBI’s commitment to quality Catholic education, affordable tuition, and positive parent-teacher interactions. Expressions of loyalty include continued enrollment, advocacy through word-of-mouth, and active parental involvement in school activities. Challenges, such as maintaining consistent communication and enhancing quality education, were identified as areas for improvement. Key recommendations include the development of a comprehensive promotional plan, enhancement of parental engagement through social media and events, and the implementation of innovative teaching strategies. These insights contribute to ICCBI’s strategic goals, providing actionable strategies to enhance parental loyalty and support its mission of delivering transformative education.

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Plea bargaining in criminal cases is a process whereby the accused and the prosecution work out a mutually satisfactory disposition of the case, subject to court approval (daan vs. Sandiganbayan, g.R. Nos. 163972-77). The supreme court (sc) has issued new guidelines that enhanced and clarified plea bargaining in illegal drug cases where an accused seeks to plead guilty to a lesser offense for a lighter penalty. The purpose of the study is to assess the impact of plea bargaining agreements on drug police operations in sta. Mesa police station, manila. The respondents were PNP personnel of sta. Mesa police station (ps-8) currently and formerly designated as station drug enforcement unit and selected barangay anti-drug abuse council (badac) members wherein persons who availed plea bargaining reside were the respondents of the study. The area of study was done at sta. Mesa police station (ps-8), manila. Santa Mesa is a district in Manila, Philippines. It was found out that the PNP personnel assessed believed that the persons who entered plea bargaining agreements have fully supported the police officers in drug police operations. An operational plan was developed to increase support for the plea bargaining agreement among arrested drug suspects.

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The purpose of this study was to identify teachers’ strategies in teaching literature in public senior high schools and measure levels of effectiveness of these strategies. A significant correlation between teacher profile and teaching strategies used, and a significant correlation between teacher profile and levels of effectiveness of strategies were also identified. This study also investigated challenges faced by teachers in efficiently using strategies in teaching the 21st century literature subject. Theories of cognitivism and constructivism were integrated for this study. Research paradigm adopted was the independent-dependent-variable model that served as basis. This study applied mixed methods of research; specifically, the study used an explanatory sequential design. The quantitative element of this study is descriptive correlational to find the connection between the demographic profile of teachers in terms of sex, age, educational attainment, and number of years in teaching literature to teaching strategies used, and levels of effectiveness of strategies used by teachers in teaching literature. A qualitative element was also added to investigate challenges teachers faced inefficiently using strategies in teaching literature. Based on the results, all teaching strategies were almost always used by teachers and these strategies were all effective. There was no significant correlation between teacher profile and teaching strategies used. A significant correlation between teacher profile only n terms of sex and the level of effectiveness of strategies used was significant. This study also showed that strategies were effective and these became ineffective only because of challenges teachers faced in using these strategies efficiently. Conclusions were drawn and recommendations were presented.

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