Research

As the national university, we champion and support innovative research that addresses the country’s most pressing challenges.

01 Feb 2024

UP Diliman

Embodying the Filipino “transpersonal worldview” can remind us of our relationship with nature and promote respect for it

In the indigenous Filipino belief, nature is filled with spirits. After we pass on, we return to nature, becoming anito....

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31 Jan 2024

UP Diliman

The Libingan ng mga Bayani is a social space where epitaphs signal social relationships and realities

In this paper, I looked at the epitaphs found on grave markers in Libingan ng mga Bayani. I investigated how...

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30 Jan 2024

UP Manila

Review explores how genetic and social factors contribute to the development of gender-based cancer differences among Asians

Cancer is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally. Sex differences in cancer are evident in death rates and...

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29 Jan 2024

UP Los Baños

Researchers develop an ergonomic keyboard that eases typing in English, Tagalog and even Taglish

In the Philippines nowadays, English and Tagalog languages are alternately used for formal written communications;  in a school setting, English...

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26 Jan 2024

UP Diliman

Study introduces an easy physics experiment for students to do at home, providing learning opportunities with minimal teacher involvement

The COVID-19 pandemic posed a challenge for laboratory classes to keep students engaged amidst the limitations of a fully remote...

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24 Jan 2024

UP Manila

People who are new patients or seeking clearance or referral for endocrine-related symptoms are more likely to opt for teleconsultation

Telemedicine employs the use of technology to increase access to health care. This is especially relevant in developing countries where...

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23 Jan 2024

UP Diliman

While Visayan women were depicted as “most civilized” in colonial photography, the photos still upheld a gender ideology promoting male superiority

Significant works have been published on American colonial photography in the Philippines, which primarily focus on the depiction of Filipinos...

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22 Jan 2024

UP Manila

To improve how we diagnose, prevent and treat allergies, it is crucial to better understand how different factors interact with each other

Allergies are overreactions of the body to harmless allergens and are one of the most chronic conditions worldwide. Atopy or...

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18 Jan 2024

UP Los Baños

A majority of world’s largest flowers teeter on the edge of extinction

The genus Rafflesia, which includes the world’s largest flowers, has aroused curiosity among scientists for centuries and features prominently in local...

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17 Jan 2024

UP Mindanao

Utilizing chitosan as an edible coating presents a promising solution for prolonging the shelf life of fresh produce

The development of diseases and decay in vegetables after harvest limits their shelf life and saleability. To control this, proper...

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16 Jan 2024

UP Diliman

An easy-to-build computer-based spellchecker designed to help foreign language learners in writing provides error-specific feedback with explanations and examples

In second language (L2) acquisition, writing is no longer perceived as a mere consequence of learning, but is now treated...

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15 Jan 2024

UP Manila, UP Open University

A novel method has the capability to precisely identify the author of unknown texts, particularly news articles

This study tackles the challenge of figuring out who wrote anonymous text, like online articles, in an age when there...

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Research

The research delves into the complexities of the South China Sea issues, proposing a fresh approach for countries like the Philippines and China to handle disputes. It argues that China’s claims in certain areas are facing challenges, and introduces a strategy called the “Smooth Power Approach”. In simpler terms, this means using a careful mix of uncertainty and building friendships with other nations to balance power dynamics and peacefully address disagreements. The study outlines a practical plan for the Philippines, initially focusing on maintaining the current situation and then forming alliances with powerful countries. The ultimate aim is to create genuine friendships and find solutions that benefit everyone, promoting harmony in the region under international rules. This research is valuable for governments as it provides insights into a new way of handling diplomatic issues, potentially influencing foreign policy decisions. For researchers, especially those studying international relations and maritime disputes, the research contributes a fresh perspective on the evolving dynamics of the South China Sea, offering a unique model for further exploration and analysis within the broader context of global relations.

The research explores the complex challenges in the region and suggests a novel approach. It argues that, following legal rulings, China’s claims to disputed areas face legitimacy challenges. The proposed “Smooth Power Approach” advocates for a strategic use of uncertainty by the Philippines to recalibrate its foreign policy and build alliances with global powers. This approach aims to break deadlocks by fostering genuine friendships and proposing mutually beneficial solutions, ultimately harmonizing interests under the Rules-based Order. The research provides a nuanced perspective on navigating geopolitical challenges and emphasizes the importance of legitimacy and collaboration in resolving disputes. Researchers studying international relations, maritime disputes, and diplomatic strategies may find this research beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, it introduces a unique perspective on power dynamics, moving beyond traditional realism and liberalism. The Smooth Power Approach proposes a nuanced strategy that
combines elements of uncertainty, collaboration, and authentic relationship-building. Government agencies, especially in the region, could use this research to inform their foreign policy strategies. The proposed phased strategy provides a framework for navigating complex geopolitical challenges, maintaining stability, and building alliances with major global powers. Policymakers could consider these recommendations in their decision-making processes, potentially contributing to more effective and harmonious diplomatic relations in the South China Sea.

Author: Francis Michael C. Abad (College of Social Sciences, University of the Philippines Cebu)

Read the full paper: https://research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=d3c26d9a-4551-3a0a-a6b7-fd1bda09f092