This study aimed to investigate the implications of rice price inflation in Naga City, Philippines. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. The study examined the profiles of rice consumers, their level of awareness regarding the factors contributing to rice price inflation, and the effects of rising prices on their personal, financial, and social aspects. The findings reveal that the consumers in Naga City are predominantly in the 26-35 age group, with a majority being female and college graduates. The level of awareness among consumers varies, with moderately high awareness of environmental and economic factors, but lower awareness of political factors influencing rice prices. The study also highlights the significant impact of rice price inflation on consumers' personal lives, causing stress and anxiety, as well as financial strain due to necessary budget adjustments. Additionally, the rising prices have social implications, limiting consumers' ability to share meals with family and friends. The research concludes by proposing a strategic plan to help rice consumers in Naga City cope with the challenges posed by price inflation. This includes enhancing consumer education, promoting diversification of food sources, improving access to affordable rice, and fostering community-based support networks. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and the local community to develop effective interventions and strategies that address the complex issue of rice price inflation and its far-reaching consequences.

The Small Business Corporation (SBC), established under the "Magna Carta for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)," plays a vital role in supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in developing nations. Despite their economic significance, SMEs often face challenges in accessing funding. This study examined the level of awareness of micro-enterprises and the factors influencing the SBC's "RISE UP Tindahan" loan for micro-enterprises in Naga City, contributing to local government, micro-enterprises, and policymakers.

The research is composed of six objectives: (1) to determine the business profile of the micro-enterprises; (2) to assess the level of awareness among micro-enterprises; (3) to identify the factors considered when seeking loans; (4) to analyze the correlation between business profiles and awareness levels; (5) to explore the relationship between awareness levels and factors considered; and (6) to develop a marketing intervention. This paper employs a mixed-method research design, utilizing structured questionnaires administered to a representative sample of micro-enterprises in Naga City.

Subsequently, the findings revealed that micro-enterprises, primarily sole proprietors, face challenges such as limited starting capital. The study also identifies a need for increased awareness among micro-enterprises regarding the RISE UP Tindahan loan product. Furthermore, it explores factors considered by micro-enterprises when availing themselves of loan products, emphasizing the importance of the lender's reputation. Significantly, the research indicated no substantial relationship between business profiles (such as starting capital and business location) and awareness levels. Similarly, there was no significant correlation between the level of awareness of micro-enterprises and the factors considered when obtaining loans.

In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for micro-enterprises in Naga City, offering recommendations for policymakers and the SBC to improve financial awareness and access to support the growth of SMEs in the region.

Keywords: Awareness, RISE UP Tindahan, Loan, Marketing Intervention

Accurate counting of tilapia fingerlings is essential for efficient aquaculture management and production planning. Traditional methods are labor-intensive and prone to error, increasing the need for automated solutions. This study evaluates the application of Mask Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (Mask R-CNN) for precise, automated counting of tilapia fingerlings in various aquatic environments. The Mask R-CNN algorithm, known for detecting and segmenting objects within images, was trained on a custom dataset of underwater images of tilapia fingerlings. Researchers utilized a 38x38x10 cm enclosure capable of housing up to 600 fingerlings. The dataset comprised 340 annotated images capturing fingerlings in diverse settings, including varying densities, lighting conditions, and orientations. An LED light illuminated the enclosure from underneath, and a Raspberry Pi camera positioned 52 cm above captured the images. These still images were then processed by the Mask R-CNN algorithm. The system's ability to discern tilapia fingerlings from other objects was rigorously tested. The Mask R-CNN model was evaluated using precision, recall, and F1-score. The results demonstrated high accuracy, with the model achieving a precision of 95.24%, a recall of 95.24%, and an F1-score of 97.51%. These metrics indicate the model's robustness in accurately identifying and counting fingerlings within the images. The system can process still images in real-time, highlighting its suitability for practical deployment in aquaculture facilities. The findings indicate that Mask R-CNN is a robust tool for automated counting of tilapia fingerlings, significantly reducing labor and minimizing human error. This advancement holds promise for enhancing productivity and efficiency in fish farming operations. Future work will focus on refining the model to improve accuracy further and testing its applicability to other species and larger-scale operations, including integrating the system into live video feeds for continuous monitoring.

Keywords: Mask R-CNN, Tilapia Fingerlings Counting, Image Processing, Raspberry Pi 4b, Pi Camera v2.1

This study focuses on assessing the correlation between the quality of fermented cacao beans and the color of the beans’ seed shell using digital image capture expressed in RGB format as the cacao seeds undergo the fermenting process. Color sampling, conducted at the 3rd to 7th day of fermentation with 30-minute and 2-hour intervals, totaling 340 images, provided a comprehensive view of color changes. The purpose of this study was to provide cacao farmers with a reliable tool for monitoring and optimizing fermentation processes, improving the quality and consistency of cocoa products. The methodology involved capturing digital images of cacao beans at various fermentation stages using a high-resolution camera and analyzing the RGB color values of the images to classify the beans as under-fermented, peak-fermented, or over-fermented. The findings revealed that the RGB-based color recognition system demonstrated promising accuracy in classifying cacao fermentation stages, with an average accuracy rate of over 85% across multiple tests. The study identified a measurable relationship between the color of the outer layer of cacao beans and fermentation quality, aligning with the Philippine National Standard for Cacao Beans. This correlation provides reliable indicators of fermentation quality, supported by sensory evaluation results for taste, further affirmed by statistical evidence. The research highlighted the importance of integrating technology-driven solutions into traditional agricultural practices to enhance efficiency and sustainability. By providing cacao farmers with a practical tool for monitoring fermentation, the RGB-based color recognition system has the potential to drive positive economic and social impacts in cacao-producing regions.

Keywords: Cacao Fermentation, RGB Color Values, Non-Destructive Assessment, Image Processing, Peak Fermentation

This research addresses the challenge of young coconut meat spoilage, focusing on moisture control for extended shelf life and quality preservation. A designed freeze-drying machine is introduced for producing value-added young coconut flesh in Naga City. Objectives include correlating drying time with reduced moisture content and comparing freeze-drying to conventional sun-drying. The experiment, featuring meticulously collected samples undergoing varied freeze- drying times, establishes a strong correlation between duration and moisture loss. The second phase involves comparing freeze-drying and sun-drying (1-5 hours), emphasizing randomization and meticulous sun-drying conditions. Statistical analysis, including correlation tests and an independent T-test, supports the research findings. Results highlight the freeze-drying prototype's efficacy in reducing moisture content in young coconut meat, with a significant correlation between duration and moisture loss. While conventional sun-drying outperforms in terms of moisture reduction, the study highlights the freeze-drying device's advantage in preserving overall quality, taste, and nutritional value. The research concludes that the freeze-drying machine presents a valuable solution, offering precise moisture control while preserving the essential qualities of young coconut meat.

Keywords: Young Coconut Meat, Freeze-Drying, Moisture Content

This research study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the utilization of the soil moisture sensor and automatic irrigation in the plant monitoring systems. The researchers prepared 2 set-ups; the 1st one made use of the traditional way of watering using a water dipper and the 2nd plant which made use of the soil moisture sensor and automatic irrigation. The experiment went on for 11 days; it started on March 26, 2024 and ended on April 5, 2024. Changes in the plant's height, leaves' color and size were made every 2 days.

The control set-up was watered with 30mL of water daily while in the experimental set-up, the amount remaining from the 300mL of water was measured to find out the amount of water consumed by the plant. The device was effective in detecting the moisture content of the plant and giving out the needed amount of water. It is helpful in terms of water conservation.

When it comes to the differences in the plant's height, leaf color, and leaf size, during the observation period, set-up A and set-up B had similar advances in all aspects. We therefore conclude that there is no significant difference in the height, leaf color, and leaf size between the plant which is watered normally compared to the plant which makes use of the soil moisture sensor and automatic irrigation system.

Keywords: soil moisture sensor, automatic irrigation, plant monitoring, water conservation

Several digital payment systems have been implemented globally. As the world progressively and effortlessly transitions from cash payments to digital payments, some businesses remain hesitant to adopt these technologies. This study promotes the readiness of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Naga City to utilize digital payments. It emphasizes the role of digital payments in the business transactions of MSMEs and, through partnerships with the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) and Camarines Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CSCCI), aims to provide guidelines for Naga City's dedicated entrepreneurs. This initiative particularly targets existing non-users of digital payments and developers, assisting them in selecting and developing future digital payment solutions.

Additionally, a simplified toolkit—the MODES (MSMEs On Developing in an Emerging Society) Handbook—will be created to help them learn about digital payments and facilitate their adoption or implementation. The study applied a descriptive research approach, utilizing survey questionnaires completed by one hundred (100) MSME owners, authorized managers, or supervisors. The results revealed that MSMEs in Naga City employ various digital payment methods, including mobile wallets, online banking, debit and credit cards, QR codes, and prepaid cards.

Digital payments are found to play an essential role in assisting MSMEs with their internal operations, particularly operational activities. They also support external operations by expanding customer bases and establishing customer connections. The findings indicate that MSMEs in Naga City consider ease of use as the most critical factor when choosing a digital payment method. To further develop digital payments, MSMEs may contemplate incorporating transaction-based fees, adopting the same digital payment methods as their suppliers, and evaluating the quality of digital payment options in terms of ease of use, usefulness, and perceived security rather than solely focusing on costs.

Keywords: Business Transactions, Cashless, Digital Payments, External Operations, Internal Operations, MSMEs

Abstract Text

Augmented Reality (AR) is an enhanced version of the physical world achieved through digital visual elements, sound, or other sensory stimuli delivered via technology. It is a growing trend among companies involved in mobile computing and business applications. Amid the rise of data collection and analysis, one of augmented reality’s primary goals is to highlight specific features of the physical world, increase understanding of those features, and derive intelligent and accessible insights that can be applied to real-world applications (Hayes, 2023).

This research focuses on the effect of Augmented Reality-Based Interactive Multimedia on College of Nursing learners' academic course engagement in Anatomy. It aims to explore how this approach engages students in learning the course and improves their academic retention. The findings of this research will be significant in seeking innovative educational methods if the study shows that Augmented Reality-Based Interactive Multimedia has a positive impact on the learning competencies of College of Nursing learners.

In this research, ten respondents were gathered from 3rd and 4th Year College of Nursing students from the University of Nueva Caceres. A random sampling method was employed, conducted through Google Forms without specifications regarding their gender or age. The data collection for the study utilized a five-point Likert scale. The agreement on the positive effects on their learning and the improvement of their academic performance upon integrating AR was measured using a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 represents Strongly Disagree, 2 is Disagree, 3 is Neutral, 4 is Agree, and 5 is Strongly Agree. The Weighted Average Mean was used as the statistical tool in this study.

Moreover, the study concluded that integrating AR into the anatomy course emphasizes the importance of comprehensive training for nurses. This intervention enhances academic engagement and retention of complex studies, proving its compelling influence on nursing students' academic performance. In conclusion, Augmented Reality-Based Interactive Multimedia represents a pathway for effective learning for students, standing out as a promising innovation that bridges theory and real-world nursing scenarios, defining the future of medical education.

Keywords: Augmented Reality, Interactive Multimedia, Academic Engagement, Nursing Education, Learning Retention

This study analyzed the strategies of local business owners regarding how they achieve success by building the jobs they pursue and maintaining consistency in their work. The objective is to understand the challenges faced by local businesses, the strategies they employ, and their perspectives on business law, feedback, and misconceptions.

The research was conducted not only to achieve these goals but also to assist students and aspiring entrepreneurs in understanding the necessary actions to take when starting their businesses. This paper aims to serve as a guide or inspiration for those who doubt their skills in building a business.

The researchers developed ten survey questions and employed a convenience sampling method to gather responses from five local business owners, both residing inside and outside Naga City, Camarines Sur.

The results indicate that earning money is a primary goal for every local business owner, as it provides financial support and meets the necessities of their families. Most respondents consider various factors that contribute to their business growth, including location, rent, supply, and demand. They believe that effective strategies for attracting customers include presenting goods attractively and being adaptable to customer needs. Furthermore, all respondents expressed a willingness to listen to customer feedback; however, they do not tolerate consumers who make unreasonable demands.

The Suggested Retail Price Law in the Philippines plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of both sellers and buyers. Adhering to this law can contribute to a more vibrant and prosperous environment for everyone involved in the business sector.

Based on these findings, the researchers recommend that future studies explore how local businesses are impacted by imported products and services. Additionally, it is essential to prioritize strategies that ensure business sustainability and growth within society.

Keywords: local businesses, success strategies, financial support, customer feedback, Suggested Retail Price Law, business sustainability

The freshness of fish, a key determinant of fish quality, is a primary concern for both the fish industry and consumers. Fresh fish can be identified using the fisheye as a determinant of fish quality. This study developed an Android mobile application that identifies the number of hours that have passed since the milkfish died. The application utilized an algorithm resulting from image processing techniques that implement convolutional neural networks (CNN) to process images of milkfish eyes. The training set for the development of the algorithm started with three live samples from a fish farm managed by the Bureau of Fisheries in Daet, Camarines Norte.

Controlled tests for the accuracy of the application were conducted on an hourly basis, examining the distance and influence of light on camera performance, which were tested repeatedly over six different milkfish. Results revealed that the mobile application achieved an accuracy of 96.032% at a camera distance of 15 cm under an illumination level of 750 lux. This mobile application aids users in selecting fresh milkfish that have died within a 24-hour period and have not been subjected to freezing or other means of preservation. A handy mobile application allows users with limited fish-related skills to improve their chances of selecting better-quality fish.

Keywords: Milkfish Eyes, Freshness, Smartphone, Mobile Application

Abstract Text

"Diversity in the workplace is present and inherent in any organization. It can be in gender, race, qualifications, skills, competencies, or other forms. Diversity is also brought about by people in organizations belonging to different generational cohorts or groups of individuals born in the same period or generation. Three cohorts are included in this study: the Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y. The research objectives are to describe the characteristics and work values of the generational cohorts of workers in an educational institution in Naga City, Bicol Region, Philippines, and determine their life aspirations towards developing a program to sustain a unifying workforce in the institution. 

The study used the qualitative design wherein the informational data were gathered through an open-ended questionnaire rolled out through google forms. The respondents freely wrote their answers to questions. For questions with multiple answers, such multiple answers were included in the frequency count. The study subjects are the educational institution's workforce categorized into the different generational cohorts of Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Gen Y or Millenials based on their birthdays and randomly chosen from among teaching and non-teaching personnel. A total of 42 respondents consented to answer the questionnaire representing the teachers from the different academic departments and the non-teaching staff from different service units. 

The following are the study's conclusions: (1)  There are characteristics and work values commonly possessed by Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Gen Y employees of the University. All of them value their work through hard work and persistence to realize set goals. They are willing to take risks as a manifestation of their creativity and dynamism. Their enthusiasm drives them to adapt quickly to technology, processes, and procedures and work with minimum supervision. They are highly skilled in using devices and gadgets necessary for work. Communicating with them should be open and straight through any means, whether via SMS, emails, or other social media platforms. Valuing proper time management, these three cohorts prefer a work environment with high work commitment and strong work ethic, with a purely professional but familial management approach. (2) The three generational cohorts also have their cohort differences. Baby Boomers make the most of the learning opportunities provided by training or webinars. They carefully plan their tasks by making a daily checklist. The work environment for them should be familial, wherein the preferred superior is someone sensitive to the organization's workers' needs. Their commitment to the University is driven by their work passion and the thought that they are in the service of educating and molding the minds of the youth for future success. The Gen X cohorts are good listeners and problem solvers who prefer to be in a hierarchical work relationship. Those in the Gen Y cohort are the empathic, thoughtful, and generous type. They are more process and detail-oriented, enabling them to be independent learners. 

Additionally, (3) Most Baby Boomers and Gen X cohorts have not realized their life aspirations. Most of the Gen Y cohort still needs to fulfill their life aspirations. Common to all of them, though, is the economic aspiration to have a simple but comfortable financial status in life and the professional aspiration to continuously inspire all learners to realize their goals. (4) There are some aspirations unique to each cohort. Baby Boomers, at their age right now, where most of them have already fulfilled their ideals, aspire to be more of service to others in the community and not to be confined only to their job tasks. The Gen X cohort aspires to focus on educational advocacies, hoping to help build the nation by producing better leaders for the country. The Gen Y cohort dream of a country where development can be sustained and wherein they can involve themselves in community affairs. At a young age, they desire to move up to a higher position on their career ladder.

The Proposed Program for the nurturance of generational cohorts towards a unifying workforce looked into three key strategies: Education – providing additional learning and development for people to enhance their capabilities and potentials; Enforcement – reviewing and enhancing policies to address workers’ motivation to stay committed in the organization; and Exposure – enabling people to be exposed to situations that would help them realize their life aspirations. It is recommended that a particular team or committee be assigned to further break down the three strategies of interventions into a detailed plan of action in order to build and sustain a culture of nurturance of employees in the University towards enhancing their capabilities and potential for the realization of their aspirations in life. 

Keywords: Generational Work Cohorts, Work Values, Life Aspirations of Generational Work Cohorts"

"The global pandemic has had a profound effect on education. Since 2020, almost all schools have been using remote learning; thus, this is an ideal opportunity for the University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) to conduct an energy audit and analyze each building's consumption. The purpose is to assess energy consumption and recommend the UNC administration's energy-saving initiatives. The findings of an energy survey of total connected loads in each building, including air conditioning, computers, lights, and laboratory equipment, were discussed in this study. The energy survey revealed that air conditioning consumes the most energy (50%), followed by computer equipment (29%) and lighting (10%). It also shows that the JH Building has massive energy consumption (34%), followed by the EA (20.7%) and the HS Building (12%). That energy consumption has dropped dramatically since April 2020 due to the pandemic. This study contains data on forecasted energy consumption using the linear regression method for the next five years when CHED allows limited face-to-face classes. The forecast also shows the projected energy consumption cost of the University once face-to-face classes resume, which can be utilized by the UNC administration in developing energy efficiency measures that are both cost-effective and energy-efficient.

Keywords: Energy audit, total connected load, forecast, energy consumption, linear regression method"

"The proponents developed a Thermo-hygrometer control system (THCS) that monitor and control the optimal fruiting temperature of 25°C - 28°C and relative humidity of 80 – 90% for oyster mushroom. The research is done in Pili, Camarines Sur, were two 6x2x6.5 ft sheds with fifty fruit bags each, are monitored and compared. One shed is cultivated traditionally and the other is equipped with THCS. The shed with THCS has DHT22 sensor inside. The sensor is capable of measuring the temperature and relative humidity. It will also be the input data of the Arduino Mega; which will be the one to control the entire system when it comes to triggering the alarm, turning on and off of the humidifier, fans, and lights, and also the storing of data to the SD card in a given time thru real time clock. The study aims to help the mushroom farmers in maintaining the right amount of temperature and relative humidity in the fruiting process of mushroom cultivation, help them improve the quality of the harvested mushroom and increase their production. The system was able to reduce the ambient temperature by 1°C. In terms of capsize, shed with device has maximum capsize of 17.8 cm compared to 7.8 cm of traditional.

Keywords: Temperature, relative humidity, thermo-hygrometer"

"The concept of USBONG plantable pencil came about in 2017 as a course requirement of Harvin Ong and Celeste Sibulo in their Marketing Management course at the University of Nueva Caceres. It is an eco-friendly pencil made from discarded newspapers that have seeds inside a gelatin capsule at its tip. These seeds are radish, sunflower, tomato, Chinese cabbage, basil, or okra. Inspired by social entrepreneurship, Ong and Sibulo established the Green Tie Enterprises as USBONG plantable pencils with its product with the 16 ""nanays"" (mothers) of Milaor, Camarines Sur as its beneficiaries. Qualitative and quantitative research designs were used in this study. The marketing strategies employed are:  having a value proposition canvas, affordability, and online platforms as distribution channels.

Moreover, their subsequent marketing strategies include increasing distribution channels, co-branding, and changing brand image. In 2020, its sales were down by 60% versus the sales target as an adverse effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges encountered in handcrafting the pencils are the standard and sufficiency of pencil leads and discarded newspapers, and less interest and unmotivated ""nanays"". On the other hand, the benefits of the social enterprise to the ""nanays"" are: great appreciation of the concept of social entrepreneurship, recognition of the importance of working with passion in an entrepreneurial endeavor, gaining an idea of what entrepreneurship is, and the amount they get in handcrafting USBONG plantable pencils helps their family's financial needs. 

Keywords: Eco-friendly, marketing strategies, plantable pencils, social entrepreneurship "

Employment is certainly one of the most important dimensions of life. Not only does it represent the main source of income for most people in the world, but a large part of people’s lifetime is spent working. However, the pandemic has created long-lasting effects on the workforce. The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered many modifications reshaping the workforce, including an abrupt digital and remote working transformation, which led to employees facing a harsh need to quickly adapt to these changes. This situation raises significant questions regarding employee wellbeing during this pandemic: How are employees coping? What is the state of their wellbeing?

This study aims to determine the wellbeing of employees at the University of Nueva Caceres during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 170 university employees completed a survey administered through an online platform. The Personal Wellness Assessment with 8 Dimensions of Wellness was utilized to measure employee wellbeing, and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was employed to analyze the gathered data. The results indicated that during the COVID-19 pandemic, UNC employees reported a high level of wellbeing. Specifically, they scored extremely high in spiritual, intellectual, and social dimensions but felt challenged in emotional, financial, and physical aspects of their wellbeing.

Significant relationships were found between employee age and their wellbeing concerning physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Similarly, there were notable correlations between the length of service and employees' physical and emotional wellbeing. Gender differences were also observed; significant disparities emerged in social and spiritual aspects of wellbeing. Additionally, civil status was found to significantly impact physical and emotional wellbeing. However, no statistical difference was noted in wellbeing status according to departmental affiliation.

Keywords: employees’ wellbeing, dimensions of wellbeing

When it comes to construction materials, concrete is one of the most widely accepted building materials formed through the combination of water, cement, and aggregates. Its main deficiency is the development of small cracks due to its comparatively low tensile strength when subjected to extreme tensile stresses, plastic deformity, and temperature deviations. This adversely affects infrastructure by reducing its lifespan and serviceability. Moreover, the manufacture of Portland cement, a primary component of concrete, is a leading global emitter of carbon dioxide (CO₂). The emissions from the calcination process that limestone undergoes and the ignition in the cement production furnace account for about 7% of CO₂ emissions nationwide, highlighting significant opportunities for reduction techniques.

In this investigation, experiments were conducted to assess the effectiveness of bio-green concrete using expanded glass powder (ESP) as a partial cement replacement (5%, 10%, 15%) and Bacillus subtilis (105 CFU/mL) as a catalyst for bacteria-based self-healing mechanisms. The assessment focused on workability, density, and compressive strength. The results indicated that 5% ESP replacement yielded the optimum compressive strength compared to conventional concrete. Regarding workability and density, findings revealed that the inclusion of ESP and Bacillus subtilis did not significantly affect these properties. Descriptive analysis showed that Bacillus subtilis successfully repaired cracks by inducing calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) precipitation.

Keywords: Bacillus subtilis, Compressive Strength, ESP, Green Concrete, Self-healing Concrete

This study aims to identify crop management strategies in Nueva Ecija that lead to a higher rice crop yield, focusing on seed selection input, irrigation systems, and farming practices. The framework of the study was adopted from Baumgartner and Cherlet (2016) to discuss the mediating role of institutions in land degradation and improvement. Results revealed an increase and wide adoption of improved seed varieties, enabling continuous cropping with the aid of irrigation, while direct-seeding has substituted transplanting as a crop establishment method. The increase in rice crops in Nueva Ecija also generated more employment opportunities. Extensive communication and cooperation among agricultural and environmental authorities led to improved, effective, and cost-efficient policies aimed at solving soil degradation problems and enhancing food security in the region.

Keywords: crop management, rice crop yield, soil degradation

This research was conducted to support the goals of the Angat-Buhay Foundation and the University of Nueva Caceres – Office of the Institutionalized Community Extension Services in alleviating the lives of the beneficiaries in Angat-Buhay Village-Lupi. The study aims to understand the micro-level factors that contribute to the development of a sustainable livelihood program for the families residing in Lupi Angat-Buhay Village. Moreover, it seeks to explore the possibility of crafting a development plan through a systematic assessment of the resources available within the area.

The research utilized a mixed-method approach for data gathering, employing survey questionnaires and follow-up interviews. It was revealed that a majority of the families residing in Angat-Buhay Village Lupi are living below the poverty threshold, and most constituents possess skills in food preparation and automotive work. A pilot livelihood program was proposed, capitalizing on these skills and the availability of raw materials, specifically papaya, in the area. Therefore, immediate implementation of this program is highly encouraged to address gaps in sustainable livelihood within the identified community.

Keywords: Angat-Buhay, livelihood, sustainability

In the United Nations World Tourism Organization Sustainable Development goals, two of the goals identified are the UN SDG number 9 which focuses on Industry Innovation and Infrastructure, and the UN SDG 11- Sustainable Cities and Communities. These two goals would help the community, especially in the tourism industry. Naga is a fascinating destination to visit because of its significant role in Bicol's history and its quick development into a cosmopolitan metropolis nestled inside a metropolitan region rich in natural resources. Because of the ongoing technological innovation, It is a must to determine the SMART Tourism Practices of the city for the place to be at par with the worldwide standard when it comes to providing the needs of the guests. The study focused on the assessment of the SMART Tourism implementation in Naga City, along with sustainability, accessibility, digitization, and cultural and heritage creativity. 

The research method used was a descriptive-evaluative study. The survey forms and/or Google Survey were used to gather information from the respondents.. The respondents of this study were the tourism entities in Naga City that are practicing smart tourism, and these are the selected hotels, resorts, restaurants, travel agencies, and the transportation sector.  In conclusion, smart tourism is the next innovation in the tourism industry. The strategic needs for the digitalization and transformation of the industry will help improve the services, experiences, and quality of the customer journey. The study shows that the city has had different forms of tech-enhanced practices that solved the challenges presented by the current practices in the industry. 

Keywords: SMART, tourism, Naga City, accessibility, sustainability, digitization