Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Owen Harvey Balocon Title: Teaching and Learning Focused Faculty Promotion in Philippine State Universities using the Teaching Excellence Framework Publication-Status: Published Abstract: This article discusses the idea of integrating the Teaching Excellence Framework as a tool to solve the problem of salary stagnation of faculty members whose focus is on teaching and learning. Currently state universities use a metric-based system in faculty promotion which weighs research more than instruction causing faculty members to experience salary stagnation and slow movement in their promotion. The author discussed the four levels of the framework and highlighted practices from different literature in the country in accordance with these levels. The study used review of related literature and meta-analysis as the primary method in gathering the information needed. The RRL came from published local and international studies, news and report articles posted in websites, and from government documents. The outcomes and discussion followed a format of discussing the level based on the Royal Academy of Engineering who created the framework, followed by practices in the Philippines, the sphere of impact, promotion criteria and the evidence, and a concluding paragraph. An important finding of this study is the adoption of this framework with other universities in the ASEAN region and other international universities. According to these universities they have bridged the gap between research and instruction and leverage the pedagogical strategies of their faculty members. The framework also promoted diversification among faculty members, and a socially justified metric of salary increase and promotion. Keywords: salary increase; teaching and learning focused; performance-based promotion; Teaching Excellence Framework; state universities; faculty ranking; faculty promotion; education; political economy Journal: The International Review of Multidisciplinary Research Pages: 1-17 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2026 Month: January DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18255403 File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/view/3 File-Function: Abstract page File-Format: text/html File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/download/3/1 File-Function: Full text File-Format: application/pdf Handle: RePEc:vtx:vertex:v:1:y:2026:i:1:id:3 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Dr. Sesenio B. Sereno Author-Workplace-Name: Lipa City Colleges, St. Vincent College of Cabuyao Title: Management Program for Raising the Service Quality and Operations in Seaport Publication-Status: Published Abstract: The maritime industry plays a critical role in global trade, with seaports serving as essential hubs for cargo handling and logistics. However, operational inefficiencies and service quality gaps can significantly impact port competitiveness and stakeholder satisfaction. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a management program designed to enhance service quality and operational efficiency at the Port of Orion, Municipality of Orion, Bataan. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, data were collected from 150 port stakeholders, including management personnel, workers, and clients, through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews conducted in 2019. The research instruments assessed current service quality dimensions (reliability, responsiveness, assurance, empathy, and tangibles), operational performance indicators, and identified critical areas for improvement. Results revealed significant deficiencies in port operations, particularly in cargo handling efficiency (M = 2.45, SD = 0.78), communication systems (M = 2.38, SD = 0.82), and equipment maintenance (M = 2.52, SD = 0.75). Based on these findings, a comprehensive management program was designed incorporating strategic interventions in infrastructure development, personnel training, technology integration, and customer service enhancement. The proposed program emphasizes continuous quality improvement, performance monitoring, and stakeholder engagement. This study contributes to maritime management literature by providing evidence-based recommendations for enhancing seaport operations and serves as a practical framework for port administrators seeking to improve service delivery and operational excellence. Keywords: management program; operational efficiency; port of orion; service quality; seaport operations Journal: The International Review of Multidisciplinary Research Pages: 18-23 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2026 Month: January DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18296555 File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/view/4 File-Function: Abstract page File-Format: text/html File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/download/4/3 File-Function: Full text File-Format: application/pdf Handle: RePEc:vtx:vertex:v:1:y:2026:i:1:id:4 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Dr. Sesenio B. Sereno, III Author-Workplace-Name: St. Vincent College of Cabuyao, Inc. Title: Creation of Coffee Ground Energy Bars: Upcycling Café Waste into Protein-Rich Products Publication-Status: Published Abstract: Coffee waste represents a significant environmental challenge, with spent coffee grounds typically discarded despite containing valuable nutrients and bioactive compounds. This product development study aimed to create protein-rich energy bars by upcycling spent coffee grounds from local cafés in Amadeo, Cavite, transforming waste into nutritious food products. Utilizing an experimental quantitative research design, three formulations were developed incorporating varying proportions of spent coffee grounds (10%, 15%, and 20%) combined with oats, nuts, honey, and protein powder. The study, conducted in 2025, involved comprehensive product testing including proximate analysis for nutritional content, microbiological examination for safety, shelf-life assessment, and sensory evaluation by 120 trained panelists using a 9-point hedonic scale. Results revealed that all formulations met nutritional adequacy standards, with protein content ranging from 12.45 g to 15.78 g per 100 g serving. Formulation B (15% coffee grounds) achieved the highest overall acceptability score (M = 7.85, SD = 0.92), demonstrating superior balance in appearance, aroma, taste, texture, and aftertaste. Microbiological analyses confirmed safety compliance with Philippine National Standards, and shelf-life studies indicated 90-day stability under proper storage conditions. The product successfully obtained FDA certification following compliance with food safety regulations. Cost analysis demonstrated commercial viability at ₱25.00 per 50g bar. This study contributes to sustainable food innovation by presenting an economically feasible and environmentally responsible solution for coffee waste valorization, offering health-conscious consumers a nutritious snack alternative while reducing café waste disposal challenges. Keywords: coffee grounds; energy bars; food waste valorization; product development; upcycling Journal: The International Review of Multidisciplinary Research Pages: 24-32 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2026 Month: January DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18296720 File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/view/5 File-Function: Abstract page File-Format: text/html File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/download/5/4 File-Function: Full text File-Format: application/pdf Handle: RePEc:vtx:vertex:v:1:y:2026:i:1:id:5 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Owen Harvey Balocon Author-Name: Dr. Regina G. Almonte Title: Information System Strategic Plan (ISSP) for the City Government of Santa Rosa, Laguna Publication-Status: Published Abstract: The study focused on the development of the Information System Strategic Plan (ISSP) for the City Government of Santa Rosa for 2024. With its growing population, economic significance, and reputation as a competitive city, Santa Rosa aims to enhance the quality and efficiency of its public services through the integration and centralization of information systems. The research aimed to identify the current systems utilized by the local government in terms of the PPT (people, process, and technology) framework. Also, the study provided the level of Information Technology maturity of the City Government of Santa Rosa as regards to planning and organization, acquisition and implementation, delivery and support, and monitoring and evaluation. With these objectives, the study was able to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the local government unit in the context of the PPT framework which led to the successful development of the ISSP.     Quantitative type of research methodology was used for the study and for the sampling method the researcher used the purposive technique. The researcher was able to target a specific population for the study which included individual respondents from the 31 departments who are either department heads, division heads, section heads or IT knowledgeable staff and 20 respondents from the IT Office.  The results of the study showed that the City Government of Sta Rosa has existing information technology in place such as Microsoft office application, customized software, and software-as-a-service applications. Also, the study presented the level of the LGU in its IT maturity level being defined, repeatable, and manageable. In addition, there are many strengths and opportunities that the LGU has shown in terms of Information Technology. Keywords: ISSP; information system strategic plan; local government unit; information technology management; management; maturity level Journal: The International Review of Multidisciplinary Research Pages: 33-39 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2026 Month: January DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18296857 File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/view/6 File-Function: Abstract page File-Format: text/html File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/download/6/5 File-Function: Full text File-Format: application/pdf Handle: RePEc:vtx:vertex:v:1:y:2026:i:1:id:6 Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: John Eric Abe Author-Name: Owen Harvey Balocon Title: Practical Workforce versus Critical Thinking Skills: A Case Study on Ethical Dilemma in Marketing of Higher Education Institutions Publication-Status: Published Abstract: This study explores a balanced approach in higher education curriculum development, aiming to integrate both market-driven skills and critical-thinking capabilities. Universities face an ethical dilemma: whether to prioritize workforce-ready competencies or intellectual growth. This paper argues that an optimal balance ensures students are well-prepared for employment while fostering analytical and ethical reasoning. Using the frameworks of utilitarianism and deontology, this study evaluates the moral implications of prioritizing either approach. From a utilitarian perspective, maximizing overall societal benefit requires a curriculum that addresses both economic demands and intellectual rigor. A purely market-driven focus may neglect critical analysis, while an exclusively theoretical approach risks producing graduates unprepared for employment. Similarly, deontological ethics suggest that universities have dual duties—to develop students' reasoning skills and to prepare them for future careers. Neglecting either responsibility compromises ethical obligations. This study further addresses external pressures influencing curriculum shifts, such as industry demands and institutional marketing strategies. Recommendations include structured planning, stakeholder engagement, and curriculum audits to balance academic integrity with employability. Additionally, adherence to ethical codes of conduct ensures universities maintain transparency and protect student dignity. Keywords: ethics; critical thinking; marketization of education; deontology; utilitarianism; public affairs; education management; skills Journal: The International Review of Multidisciplinary Research Pages: 40-54 Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Year: 2026 Month: January DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18297150 File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/view/7 File-Function: Abstract page File-Format: text/html File-URL: https://vertexcorp.org/index.php/irmr/article/download/7/9 File-Function: Full text File-Format: application/pdf Handle: RePEc:vtx:vertex:v:1:y:2026:i:1:id:7