This study, conducted at a Polytechnic State College in Camarines Sur, evaluates the effectiveness of interactive multimedia integration in enhancing students’ academic performance. This study employed a quantitative method using a quasi-experimental design. It evolves pilot testing with pre-tests and post-tests for two sections of BS Nursing students. Section A (control group) consisted of 51 students, while Section B (experimental group) had 47 students. Statistical tools, including independent sample t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA), were used to analyze and interpret the data.

The results revealed that the experimental group had a post-test mean score of 68.51, compared to the control group's 55.85. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant improvement in post-test scores for both groups, with the experimental group showing a greater mean difference of -16.29, indicating enhanced learning gains. Correlational analysis showed no significant relationship between pre-and post-test scores in Pair 1 (experimental group, r = 0.032, p = 0.822). In contrast, Pair 2 (control group) exhibited a statistically significant but weak negative correlation (r = -0.309, p = 0.035). Despite these differences, both groups demonstrated above-average performance before and after the intervention.

The findings suggest that integrating multimedia technologies fosters an interactive and engaging learning environment, leading to a statistically significant improvement in academic performance. This highlights the potential of multimedia as a valuable tool for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of instruction in classroom settings.

The paper examines the sex-disgregated issues affecting men and women in Bicol Region (5), Philippines, through the lens of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 5) indicators. Utilizing qualitative-evaluative research methodologies such as comparative data analysis and documentary analysis, the study analyzes data from various government agencies to identify persistent gender disparities in labor market participation, health, and political representation. Findings revealed that significant challenges remain unsolved despite gradual improvements in women's engagement in public life, including cultural barriers, income inequalities, and limited access to leadership roles. The paper emphasizes the necessity of generating sex-disaggregated data to inform policy-making and recommends that Local Government Units, NGOs, and private sectors institutionalize SDG localization to address identified issues effectively. The study also advocates for inclusive policies that promote gender equality and enhance women's societal roles, contributing to a more equitable and harmonious society.

This study ascertained the academic challenges that Bachelor of Technical Vocational Teacher Education (BTVTEd) students experienced before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. It sought to serve as a basis for policy formulation to help students hurdle these challenges. This study employed a descriptive survey method, and data were collected from 485 first- to third-year BTVTEd students through a questionnaire and unstructured interviews. This study highlighted significant variations of academic challenges pre- and post-pandemic, influenced by the socio-economic profiles of the students. Additionally, more access to technology, adequate internet connectivity, and reduced instructor interaction helped effective teaching-learning. Thus, academic institutions must implement curriculum modifications and create support systems to help students. Finally, it is recommended that financial support be included for needy students, necessary gadgets should be lent, and faculty training in blended learning modalities should be provided. Thus, this study contributes to the ongoing efforts to support educational resilience in the face of global disruptions and emphasizes the importance of responsive academic policies to ensure student success in the new normal.

Studies using host-parasite dynamics as bioindicator of effects and accumulators of heavy metals for assessing environmental quality are still scarce, particularly in developing countries. This study aimed at elucidating the possible use of parasites of fish in monitoring and assessing water quality. 102 samples of 18 species of parasites of Clarias gariepinus were analyzed for copper, lead, manganese, iron, zinc and cadmium concentrations. Heavy metal concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Physico-chemical parameters were measured on sites using Hanna instrument. The nutrients and non-toxic constituents of water were also determined using methods by (American Public Health Association, 1999). The data obtained were analyzed using analysis of variance and significant differences accepted at p ≤ 0.05. Duncan Multiple range test was used to compare the heavy metal accumulation in the parasites and sample t- test was used to compare the values of physico-chemical parameters, nutrients and non-toxic constituents of the water. The heavy metal concentrations in parasites of C. gariepinus were in the order of Lead>Cadmium>Copper>Iron>Magnese>Zinc. Bioindicating capacity of parasites were in the order Nematodes>Cestodes>Protozoan>Trematodes. All physico-chemical parameters of the water (pH, temperature, salinity, turbidity, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solid) except dissolved oxygen were within the permissible level of the WHO (2011) permissible limits. The water nutrients except fluoride were within the permissible limits of WHO (2011). The non-toxic constituents were within permissible limits except NH₄⁺ in the control study sites and PO₄^3- in both study sites that was not within permissible limits. This study revealed that parasites can be ideal indicators for both effects and accumulation of heavy metals in aquatic environments. Findings from this study demonstrate the need for an ecosystem friendly approach towards sustainable management of dams and rivers. This will curb aquatic pollution which can directly and indirectly affect the structure and composition of fish parasite communities and also lead to a health risk in people consuming aquatic resources contaminated with heavy metals.