About the Journal

The BU R&D Journal is an annual multidisciplinary journal managed and published by Bicol University through the Publication and Knowledge Management Division under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension. It aims to disseminate research findings and recommendations, and thus contribute to and evolve educational, scientific, technological, cultural and psycho-sociohistorical knowledge. Papers submitted for publication will undergo a double-blind peer review before final approval for publication. Contents of this journal may not be reproduced except for noncommercial, personal, educational, and research purposes. Publication in the BU R&D Journal does not entail article processing charges (APCs), submission charges, page charges, color charges, and any similar charges for Bicol University (BU)-affiliated authors. A minimal publication fee will be charged for non-BU authors.

Editorial Board

Editor-in-Chief

Dr. Gremil Alessandro S. Naz

Associate Editors

Dr. Arnulfo P. Malinis

Engineering and Technology

Dr. Luis O. Amano

Agriculture and Forestry

Prof. Ronnel R. Dioneda, Sr.

Fisheries, Marine and Aquatic Resources

Dr. Noel R. Rafer

Gender and Social Sciences

Prof. Carlos V. Cortez, Jr.

Environment and Natural Resources

Dr. Marcia Corazon P. Rico

Education and Educational Policies

Prof. Erwin E. Torres

Economics and Management

Content Editors

Dr. Julie Lucille H. del Valle

Engineering and Technology

Dr. Mark B. Ulla

Language Education

Dr. Ronel B. Simon

Information Technology

Mr. Rainier Ric B. de la Cruz

Economics

Mr. Krizler C. Tanalgo

Biodiversity Conservation

Dr. Mark Angelo O. Balendres

Crop Science and Plant Pathology

Dr. Bien Eli Nillos

Health and Medicine

Dr. Lawrence A. Limjuco

Engineering and Material Science

Managing Editor

Prof. Janet I. Triunfante

Co-Managing Editor

Prof. Yolanda Julieta B. Buama

Circulation Editor

Prof. Ma. Elma L. Mirandilla

Editorial Staff/Layout Artist

Mr. Gerimel R. Bulawan