Sustainability Factors Among Enterprises Utilizing a University-Developed Technology : The Case of Bio-N (Microbial-Based Fertilizer) Mixing Plants in Luzon, Philippines

Dinahpura T. Depositario,Jenkin P. Marbella 한국무역연구원 2011 The International Academy of Global Business and T Vol.7 No.1

The general objective of the study is to determine the factors which contribute to the sustainability of the active Bio-N mixing businesses utilizing a universitydeveloped technology, a microbial-based fertilizer popularly known as Bio-N. Three organizations operating active mixing plants under the UPLB Bio-N project - one cooperative (Gloria Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative), one local government unit (LGU) (Naujan-LGU), and one private enterprise (Romarc Enterprises) were covered in the study. These organizations and their mixing plants were based in Regions III (Central Luzon) and IV-B (MIMAROPA) in Luzon, Philippines. The case study method was employed to profile the organizations managing the mixing plant businesses and describe their marketing strategies and the entrepreneurial environment of these organizations. The factors found to be common among the organizations operating active Bio-N mixing plant businesses were: a strong entrepreneurial environment, innovative marketing strategies, a wide distribution network, strategic alliances with other organizations, key people with strong technical and business management backgrounds, diversified products and continuous R & D. These factors contributed to the ability of the active mixing plants to sustain their operations even after the marketing linkage with the Department of Agriculture (DA) had ended. It is recommended that an entrepreneurial culture be cultivated in organizations wanting to sustain and grow technology-based income-generating businesses.

Climate Change and Philippine Agribusiness : The Case of a Sweet Corn Producing Company

Dinah Pura T. Depositario,Len Augusto V. Valera,Reynaldo L. Tan,Normito R. Zapata Jr. 한국무역연구원 2010 The International Academy of Global Business and T Vol.6 No.1

This paper describes how an agribusiness enterprise in the Philippines has been adapting to climate change. Climate change adaptation refers to the ability of an entity to adjust to climate change, or to cope with its consequences. Pentagon Agribusiness, Inc., like any other company engaged in crop production, has not been exempt from the effects of climate change. Pentagon is an agribusiness company which produces sweet corn on a daily basis. In a span of twenty years, the company has managed to become highly regarded in the sweet corn production industry. At present, the company produces corn in more than 200 hectares of land in Luzon, the biggest island in the Philippines. The case study method was used to describe how climate change became a business issue for Pentagon Agribusiness Inc. and also to elaborate on the company’s response strategies to climate change. The major effects of climate change include a decrease in sweet corn productivity rates and a decrease in profitability. The company experienced an increase in sales from PhP19 million in 2003 to PhP39 million in 2007. However, in 2008, the company generated annual sales of PhP30 million only which is a 30% decrease from the 2007 figure.

Valuation of a Pre-Revenue Startup: The Case of a Philippine Software Company

Cris Edwin B. Bonalos(Cris Edwin B. Bonalos ),Dinah Pura T. Depositario(Dinah Pura T. Depositario ),Normito R. Zapata Jr.(Normito R. Zapata Jr. ) 아시아무역학회 2022 Journal of Asia Trade and Business Vol.9 No.2

Purpose - This study aimed to valuate a pre-revenue software startup in the Philippines by applying various valuation tools. Also, it aimed to verify these tools’ advantages and disadvantages in the context of a pre-revenue startup. Design/Methodology/Approach - The study employed a case study approach. Valuation methods used were the Venture Capital Method, Chicago Method, Development Milestone Method, and Cayenne Consulting Calculator. In performing these methods, quantitative and qualitative data were used. Such data were mostly provided and validated by the company’s executive management or offices. Findings - Based on the comparisons made among the pre-revenue valuation methods, the Chicago Method is determined to be the most recommended method. This method considered various factors relating to where the company is currently, and weighed different scenarios the in which the company could be. Research Implications - Further research on possible strategies for the startup’s sustainability and survivability is recommended. Such strategies may include further evaluating and recalibrating operations, and sourcing capital from angel investors.

Consumer Preferences for Residential Real Estate Properties among Interested Buyers in Laguna Province, Philippines, before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Alyssa A. Relova(Alyssa A. Relova ),Jeanette Angeline B. Madamba(Jeanette Angeline B. Madamba ),Dinah Pura T. Depositario(Dinah Pura T. Depositario ),James Roldan S. Reyes(James Roldan S. Reyes ) 아시아무역학회 2023 Journal of Asia Trade and Business Vol.10 No.1

Purpose – This study assessed the consumer preferences for residential real estate properties among interested buyers in Laguna, Philippines, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/Methodology/Approach – Interested property buyers in Laguna were randomly selected and characterized based on their socio-demographic and economic characteristics, and their COVID-19 experiences were described. Consumer preferences for different aspects of housing units were examined descriptively and using McNemar’s test, changes in preferred attributes of residential units before and during the pandemic were compared. Findings – Single-detached economic housing with three bedrooms was the most preferred type of unit of interested buyers. It was found that the higher the monthly income of respondents, the higher the property value they preferred to purchase. Los Baños is the preferred municipality to live in because of its proximity to the metropolitan capital. The preferred mechanism of ownership is either rent-to-own or via a loan. Those earning a monthly income of PhP 131,484 (USD 2,708.77) to PhP 219,140 (USD 4,514.63) preferred to purchase residential property in cash. As for attributes, proximity to highways, proximity to community services, proximity to houses of family and friends, presence of swimming pool, presence of sense of community, secured and guarded community, quiet surroundings, presence of panoramic views, and pet-friendly home and community are statistically significantly different. Research Implications – Residential real estate developers should respond to various differences in consumer preferences. To continue satisfying prospective buyer demand and successfully close sales, it is vital to consider these consumer preference changes relative to residential projects.

Implications of Current Regulations and Procedures to Genetically-Modified (GM) Maize Seed Importation in the Philippines

Cherry Lou R,Nunez,Dinah Pura T,Depositario,Melodee Marciana De Castro 아시아무역학회 2019 Journal of Asia Trade and Business Vol.6 No.1

Reports of delays in the approval of biosafety permits in the Philippines threaten to undermine the country’s thrust as Asia’s leader in biotechnology. This study examines the implications of current regulations and procedures in the importation of GM maize seeds in an attempt to provide meaningful insights to address the problem. Key informant interviews were conducted with a leading player in the GM industry and with personnel of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). Content analysis was done on relevant government issuances. Secondary data was utilized in the analysis of importation trends of GM maize seeds. Results show that the biosafety permit is being processed at an average of 378 days for commercial propagation and 549 days for direct use. The delay is significant considering that the current regulations provide for 85 days processing time for biosafety permit applications. On the other hand, importation trends indicate that the Philippines is becoming successful in the local propagation of GM maize seeds and confirms the growth of the GM industry in the Philippines as evidenced by voluminous importations by leading industry players and the entry of new players.

An Analysis of the Behavior and Factors Affecting the Prices of Pork in the Philippines, 2001-2020

Fitz D. Jimenez,Dinah Pura T. Depositario,Jeanette Angeline B. Madamba 아시아무역학회 2021 Journal of Asia Trade and Business Vol.8 No.1

Purpose - The study analyzed the behavior and the factors affecting the prices of pork in the Philippines from 2001 to 2020. Specifically, it aimed to: 1) describe the trends and growth rate in the annual retail prices, volume and import level of pork; 2) predict the future prices of pork; 3) determine the factors affecting real pork prices and; (4) draw some policy recommendations for the Philippine pork industry. Design/Methodology/Approach - Secondary data from Philippine Statistics Authority, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Department of Agriculture (DA) and other related agencies was gathered and utilized. The data gathered includes production data, average income, retail prices of pork and related good (chicken) and import level of pork for a period of 20 years from 2001 - 2020. The data collected was tabulated and summations, averages, and percentages were applied. Graphs and descriptive statistics were used to show the trend of volume of production and the pork’s nominal and real prices. Trend analysis, the decomposition method, centered-moving average and multiple linear regression were also used. Findings - The results of the study showed that for 20 years, generally, the annual real retail price of pork were stable with minimal fluctuations. On the other hand, the price decomposition revealed there was a little variation in the price of pork since it is not easily affected by seasonality. In addition, the retail forecast price of pork was also determined through the decomposition method. Furthermore, the factors affecting pork prices were evaluated using four functional models through multiple linear regression. The results showed that the linear model was the best model having the highest adjusted coefficient of variation equal to 62 %; had the highest number (3) of significant explanatory variables and three variables conformed to the economic theory as well. Research Implications - The study recommended for the government to insure the protection of the farmers from African Swine Fever by strictly monitoring the movement of meat products inside and outside the country. Lastly, the government can disseminate information about the trends in the pork prices so that farmers, traders and meat processors can capitalize on higher prices based on the forecasted prices of pork.

Exploring the Market Opportunities for a Philippine Biotechnology Product: The Case of a Coconut-Based Plant Growth Regulator

Ailene M. Florece,Dinah Pura T. Depositario,Normito R. Zapata Jr.,Loida E. Mojica 한국무역연구원 2013 The International Academy of Global Business and T Vol.9 No.1

Cocogro is an organic plant growth regulator (PGR) or promoter that is derived from coconut water or milk. Despite being available on the market since 1996, Cocogro remains to be little known even to the locals of Los Baños, where BIOTECH is located. This study was conducted to explore potential for the market of Cocogro among field-cut flowers and ornamental growers in Los Baños and Calamba, two towns in the province of Laguna which are located in the Philippines. Data on the respondents’ demographic and farm enterprise profile, level of awareness on plant growth regulators (PGRs) and their buying and usage behavior were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The Chi-square test, Pearson correlation and the market buildup method were also utilized. PGRs were found to be associated by the respondents with other terms such as ‘growth stimulant’, ‘growth promoter’, or ‘root booster’ among ornamental growers and `phytohormones’ among field-cut flower growers. Field-cut flower growers used PGRs on a seasonal basis while ornamental growers used PGRs all throughout the year. There were significant relationships found to exist between the decision to buy PGRs and two variables; the size of production area and the age of respondents. It is recommended that the product and the process involved in manufacturing the product still be further refined.

Techno-Managerial Assessment of an Agricultural Biotechnology Product –Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (MYKOVAM) : Focus on Technology Adopters

Tricia C. Ascan,Dinah Pura T. Depositario,Eldon K. Mananghaya 한국무역연구원 2009 The International Academy of Global Business and T Vol.5 No.2

The study looks into the adoption of an agricultural biotechnology product called MYKOVAM, a type of bio-fertilizer developed by the National Institute of Molecular Biotechnology and Biotechnology (BIOTECH) at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). It is a fertilizer supplement and is intended to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers. It can be applied to fruit trees, agricultural crops, and reforestation species. The study presents a brief overview of the development of the technology, reviews studies that proves its efficacy, discusses how it is disseminated to the end-users, and identifies the major constraints to its being fully commercialized. A survey was conducted among its current and past adopters. Two-way tables, chi-square and t-test were then used to determine the factors relating to continued adoption. Issues related to its utilization were also identified. The impact of the agricultural biotechnology is illustrated with a comparison of the profitability of a sweet corn farmer before and after using MYKOVAM. The technology is ready for full-blown commercialization given that a proper technology transfer agreement is achieved between the developer and the potential investors.

Technical Efficiency and Profitability Analyses of Tea Production in Phú Tho Province, Vietnam

Hoang Van Hung,Reynaldo L. Tan,Dinah Pura T. Depositario,Jimmy B. Williams 한국무역연구원 2012 The International Academy of Global Business and T Vol.8 No.2

In an economy where resources are scarce, raising productivity by improving an economic activity’s efficiency becomes the more feasible option. This study analyzed the technical efficiency of tea production in Phú Tho province, Vietnam in order to identify the factors which could contribute to greater productivity and profitability. Using a stochastic frontier approach to determine the sources of productive efficiency/inefficiency, data for the year 2010 from 182 tea farmers from six communes in Phú Tho province in Vietnam was analyzed to examine technical efficiency in tea production. Results show that education, experience, and organization membership have significant negative relationships with technical inefficiency. Further, the results reveal that the technical efficiency of tea farms ranged from 43.50% to 99.99% with a mean of 80.09%, which suggests that the tea output of the “average farmer” could still be increased by 19.91% if the technology followed by the “best performers” is adopted. It was found that improved yield can be achieved by increasing labor presently applied and by planting a higher-yielding variety. A cost and return analysis showed that the farmers who planted new varieties (LDP) posted higher income compared to those who planted the old variety (PH).

Comparative Palm Oil Trade Performance in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines

Maria Noriza Q,Herrera,Renen Szilardo C,de Guzman,Dinah Pura T,Depositario,Loida E,Mojica,Jeanette Angelin B,Madamba The International Academy of Global Business and T 2019 The International Academy of Global Business and T Vol.15 No.2

Purpose – As one of the most traded commodities in the world with tremendous economic significance, palm oil is an inexpensive source of oil. This paper examined and compared the palm oil trade performance of the Philippines relative to its top palm oil producing neighbors, Indonesia and Malaysia, by analyzing importexport volume trends of the said food commodity, consumption and production trends, self-sufficiency, import dependence, and shifting patterns of comparative advantage. Design/Methodology/Approach – Secondary data covering the period from 1964 through 2018 were collected from various sources, and descriptive analysis coupled with trend analysis were employed with respect to import and export, production, and consumption performance. Other trade indicators were computed, to wit: balance of trade, self-sufficiency ratio, import dependency ratio, and normalized trade balance. Implications were drawn after the comparative analysis among the three countries was done. Findings – An increase in the volume of the palm oil supply in the Philippines is evident, and this is attributed to increasing importation. Relative to Malaysia and Indonesia, the Philippines lags behind in international trade. While Philippine palm oil industry growth has been stagnant in terms of international trade by virtue of its net importer status, Malaysia and Indonesia have overtaken the country significantly, having attained selfsufficiency in the commodity with trade surpluses, and the gap is expected to widen in the coming years. It is interesting to note that the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia had identical production volumes and growth rates until the last decade of the 21st century. A steadily growing industry, palm oil is foreseen to continue being a vital industry, not only to top producing countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia but also in the Philippines, which is trying to improve its palm oil trade performance by expanding production. Research Implications – The study findings imply expansion and income opportunities not only for local oil palm producers, processors, and traders in the Philippines but also for foreign market entrants.