Perceived Impacts of Pagpapahalaga sa Kalikasan Project: A Qualitative Inquiry into Eastern Visayas State University’s Community Engagement at Villaconzoilo Farm Resort

Abstract

This study examines the impact of the Pagpapahalaga sa Kalikasan project implemented by Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) at Villaconzoilo Farm Resort, focusing on how ecological solid waste management (ESWM) training influenced the lived experiences of community partners. A qualitative phenomenological research design was employed, involving purposively selected employees and members of the resort who directly participated in the training. Data were gathered by means of semi-structured interviews and analyzed through Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenological method. Findings revealed that the training facilitated value-based environmental awareness, strengthened workplace waste management practices, and promoted sustained pro-environmental behavior among participants. In addition, the study highlights how university-led community engagement initiatives can generate broader institutional and social impacts beyond knowledge acquisition. The study contributes to sustainability and community engagement research by emphasizing the role of culturally grounded environmental values, workplace-embedded experiential learning, and the influence of transient stakeholders in sustainability initiatives. Moreover, the study provides practical insights for improving SUC-led environmental programs and strengthening university–community partnerships in disaster-prone regions.