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COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs) APPROACH IN FLEXIBLE

MANAGEMENT DURING PANDEMIC

An Undergraduate Thesis
Presented to the Faculty of the
College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy
RIZAL TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
Maybunga, Pasig City

In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Major in Operations Management

By

Bejar, Jade Daryl B.


Cerojales, Recem Cymon M.
Lignes, Rusell B.
Pansacala, Kristel Dianne B.
Yokota, Yuugi R.

November 2022
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APPROVAL SHEET

This thesis entitled “SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs)


APPROACH TO FLEXIBLE MANAGEMENT DURING PANDEMIC,” prepared
and submitted by Bejar, Jade Daryl, Cerojales, Recem Cymon, Lignes, Rusell,
Pansacala, Kristel Dianne, Yokota, Yuugi, in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
major in Operations Management, has been examined and is hereby
recommended for the corresponding ORAL EXAMINATION.

_________________________
Date JENNYLYN M. MARCELINO, MBA
Adviser
___________________________________________________________
PANEL OF EXAMINERS
Approved by the Oral Examination Committee with a grade of_______.

DR. CORAZON D. AUSTRIA


Chairperson

JEROME G. SISON , MBA KRISIA T. OLEDAN, MBA


Member Member

Accepted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree,


Bachelor of Science Major in Operations Management.

_________________________
DR. LEONILA C. CRISOSTOMO
Date Dean, College of Business,
Entrepreneurship, and
Accountancy
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The researchers would like to extend their profound gratitude and

sincerest appreciation to the following persons who have contributed and

extended their unselfish assistance and support in the completion of this

study:

The panel members of the Oral Defense Committee, for giving

thoughts, DR. CORAZON D. AUSTRIA, JEROME G. SISON, MBA, and

KRISIA T. OLEDAN, MBA and sharing their ideas and suggestions for the

improvement of the study;

JENNYLYN M. MARCELINO MBA, thesis adviser, for her patience,

motivation, enthusiasm, immense knowledge, and continuous support. Her

guidance helped the researchers in all the time of research and writing of this

study;

The researchers’ beloved parents and siblings for their kind

understanding, full support and sacrifices that gave them the greatest

inspiration and determination to finish the study;

To our Statistician SHIRLEY A. OPANDA, MAED, MAT who made the

computation of the results of statistical analysis possible.

To our Validators ARLIT JANRY C. PARLERO, HARVEY DAVE ONG

and NORIEL LASTROLLO, LPT, DBA who took a careful review of our paper

for the comments, corrections, suggestions resulting in a simpler and easier-

to-understand instrument structure.


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All other friends and classmates whose names may not appear but

contributed so much to this endeavor, their profound thanks; and

Above all, the researchers are overwhelmed by all humbleness and

gratefulness of our Almighty God, our Savior, for the knowledge and wisdom

in completing the research despite this challenging situation.

J.D.B.B.

R.C.M.C

R.B.L.

K.D.B.P.

Y.R.Y.
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DEDICATION

This study wholeheartedly dedicated to our beloved parents, who have

been our source of inspiration and gave us strength and when we thought of

giving up, who continually provide their moral, spiritual, emotional and financial

support.

To our brothers and sisters, relatives, mentors, friends and classmates

who shared their words of advice and encouragement to finish this study. And

lastly, we dedicated this book to the Almighty God. Thank you for the guidance,

strength, power of mind, protection and skills and for giving us a healthy life. All

of these, we offer to You.

J.D.B.B

R.C.M.C

R.B.L.

K.D.B.P.

Y.R.Y.
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ABSTRACT

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a very important role in the

growth of the Philippine economy. However, due to the pandemic, they

experience challenges wherein it is difficult to delay products due to shortages

and logistics bottlenecks, lack of working capital and working with limited

resources. The researchers conducted this study to identify how flexible the

management of SMEs is during pandemic. Quantitative was used in collecting

and analyzing the information. Survey conducted through google forms and

printed questionnaires in a total of 30 respondents within Pasig City. The data

collected was analyzed and measured using Frequency and Percentage,

Average Weighted Mean and Pearson-r. The study used secondary data

analysis in accordance with a descriptive research design. Data revealed that

businesses have greatly been affected by the pandemic in their operation,

financial and strategies. However, there is sufficient evidence that there is no

significant relationship between the effect of pandemic and the SMEs flexibility

in management. The researchers formulated an action plan for approaches in

flexible management to survive in unforeseen crisis that could be beneficial to

the researchers contribute to the understanding of the business owners,

employees, government and future researchers.

Keywords: Flexibility in Management, Logistics Bottlenecks, Unforeseen


Crisis
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title of Page………………………………………………………………… i
Approval Sheet……………………………………………………………… ii
Acknowledgement………………………………………………………….. iii
Dedication……….…………………………………………………………… v
Abstract………………………………………………………………………. vi
Table of Contents…………………………………………………………… vii
List of Appendices………………………………………………………….. ix
List of Figures……………………………………………………………….. x
List of Tables………………………………………………………………… xi

CHAPTER I – THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND


Introduction………………………………………………………………..….. 1
Background of the Study…………………………………………………..... 1
Conceptual Framework……………………………………………………… 3
Research Paradigm………………………………………………………..... 3
Statement of the Problem…………………………………………………… 4
Hypothesis……………………………………………………………………. 5
Scope and Delimitation……………………………………………………… 5
Significance of the Study……………………………………………………. 6
Definition of terms……………………………………………………………. 8

CHAPTER II – REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE


Small and Medium Enterprises…………………………………………….. 9
Flexibility in Management…………………………………………………… 10
Covid-19 in the Philippines……………………………………………….. 10
Flexibility in Management done by SMEs during Pandemic………….. 11
Operation……………………………………………………………………. 12
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Financial…………………………………………………………………….. 13
Strategies…………………………………………………………………… 14
Identifying Opportunities…………………………………………………... 16
Adapting to Change………………………………………………………... 18
Business Process Redesign……………………………………………… 19
Approaches of SMEs to Flexible Management………………………… 21

CHAPTER III – RESEARCH METHODOLOGY


Research Method…………………………………………………………... 23
Population and Sampling Scheme…………………………………………. 24
Description of the Respondents………………………………………….. 25
Research Instrument………………………………………………………. 25
Data Gathering Procedures……………………………………………….. 27
Statistical Treatment of Data……………………………………………… 27

CHAPTER IV – PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION


OF DATA
Results and Discussions of Data………….………………………………… 30
Proposed Action Plan for the Approach in Flexibility Management of
45
SMEs……………………………………………………………………………

CHAPTER V – SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND


RECOMMENDATION
Summary of Findings………………………………………………………. 45
Conclusions………………………………………………………………….. 48
Recommendations…………………………………………………………… 49
References…………….....………………………………………………….. 51
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LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A – Survey Questionnaire……………………………………… 56
Appendix B – Letter for Validation of Instrument……………………….. 61
Appendix C – Request for Conducting Survey……………………...…... 64
Appendix D – Letter for Respondents…………………………………..... 65
Appendix E – Validators Certificate………………………………………. 66
Appendix F – Request Letter for Statistician…………………………….. 69
Appendix G – Certification of Reliability and Validity…………………… 70
Appendix H – Certificate for Statistician………………………………….. 71
Appendix I – Certificate for Grammarian…………………………………. 72
Appendix J – Request Letter for the List of SMEs in Pasig City………. 73
Appendix K – Proof of Request Approval………………………………... 74

CURRICULUM VITAE………………………………………………………… 75
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LIST OF FIGURE
Figure 1: Research Paradigm……………..……………………………. 3
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Likert Scale Interpretations ……………………………………… 26
Table 2: Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Respondents
as to Nature of Business…………………………………….……. 30
Table 3: Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Respondents
as to Years in Operation……………………………………….…. 31
Table 4: Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Respondents
as to Capitalization…………………………………………………. 32
Table 5: Mean Result of the Effect of Pandemic to the SMEs
in terms of Operation……………………………………………… 33
Table 6: Mean Result of the Effect of Pandemic to the SMEs
in terms of Financial………………………..………………………. 34
Table 7: Mean Result of the Effect of Pandemic to the SMEs
in terms of Strategies……………………………………………… 35
Table 8: Mean Result of the Flexibility in Management of Selected
SMEs in terms of Identifying Opportunities…………………….. 37
Table 9: Mean Result of the Flexibility in Management of Selected
SMEs in terms of Adapting to Change……………………………. 39
Table 10: Mean Result of the Flexibility in Management of Selected
SMEs in terms of Business Process Redesign………………… 39
Table 11: Correlation Result on the Relationship Between the Effect of
Pandemic and the Approach in the SMEs Management……… 41
Table 12: Proposed Action Plan for SMEs in Adapting the
Changes………………………………………………………….. 43
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CHAPTER I
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

The proposed study seeks to determine how the pandemic has affected

SMEs' performance and the main obstacles that must be solved through

flexibility management. Specifically, the way the firm strategizes it has

implemented to deal with the difficulties that SMEs are facing. The main goal of

the researchers is to gather enough information to be useful for their

beneficiaries. To be sufficient for the study's form, the researchers used a

variety of reliable internet sites to collect their data. All of the sources of data

and literature consulted for this manuscript are rich in substance. The

researchers made sure that the information they acquired was reliable and

honest throughout the entire investigation.

According to experts, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are

businesses that maintain their sales, assets, or personnel count below a specific

level. Small and midsize firms (SMEs), despite their modest size, are crucial to

the economy. The coronavirus pandemic has a variety of effects on SMEs, on

both the supply and demand sides. The unexpected and dramatic loss of

demand and revenue, which results in major financial limitations, significantly

impairs a SME's capacity to function danger according to Omar, Oyewale (2020)

As a result, for the time being, the majority of firms are focusing their

efforts on supply chain disruption management, risk identification, and


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employee safety. This will be crucial for preserving incomes and employment,

preserving financial stability, and recovering growth by minimizing interruptions

to trade and the global supply chain. The primary challenges will be addressing

how to give small and medium-sized enterprises access to new business

strategies and management flexibility, allow them to enter new markets, and

promote their use of new technologies to establish stronger connections with

manufacturers, suppliers, and customers.

The researchers performed this study to help improve in developing

effective strategies during the pandemic. The findings of this paper, especially

the proposed action planned may be considered to be used by the SMEs

management and their employees who will mainly benefit in this study. The

contribution of this paper for the local government is that they will have an idea

regarding the situation of SMEs in the economy and with that they will identify

what could be their assistance for these businesses to survive in a pandemic.

For the future researchers, they could analyze the content of this paper to serve

as their guide and better analyze their research study.


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Conceptual Framework

INPUT
PROCESS OUTPUT
Demographic profile of the
respondents.  Data gathering
through Online
 Business Type
Questionnaire Google
 Years of Operation Form and Printed
Action plan for
 Capitalization Materials
Approaches in
Effects of SMEs to Pandemic  Presentation of Data
Flexible
 Operation  Interpretation and
Management to
 Financial analysis of data
survive in
 Strategies unforeseen crisis.
Flexibility in Management
taken by SMEs
 Identifying Opportunities
 Adapting Change
 Business Process
Redesign
Significant relationship
between the effect of
pandemic and approach of
SMEs
Proposed Action Plan for
SMEs in Adapting the
Changes

Figure I. Research Paradigm

The illustrated figure 1 above shows the effective approach in operation

management amid pandemic. The researchers used an Input-Process-Output

Structural Framework in the shown paradigm. A system's various input,

intermediate, and output variables generate causal links in accordance with the

input-process-output structural framework (see Figure 1), which outlines this

process. There are four levels of abstraction in the structural framework:

paradigm, theory, model, and measurement. (Yu, n.a)


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Statement of the Problem

The purpose of this study is to analyze the Small and Medium

Enterprises in Pasig City in the midst of a pandemic.

Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions:

1. What is the demographic profile of selected businesses in terms of:

1.1 Nature of Business

1.2 Years of Operation

1.3Capitalization

2. How does pandemic affect the SMEs in terms of:

2.1 Operation

2.2 Financial

2.3 Strategies

3. What are the flexibility in management taken by SMEs in terms of:

3.1 Identifying Opportunities

3.2 Adapting to change

3.3 Business Process Redesign

4. Is there a significant relationship between the effect of pandemic

and the approach in the SMEs management?

5. What action plan can be proposed in SMEs for adapting the

changes?
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Hypothesis

The hypothesis that the researchers had interfered had been tested at

0.05 level of significance:

H(0). There is no significant relationship between the effect of pandemic and

the SMEs flexibility in management.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study focuses on the flexibility in management of SME within Pasig

City during pandemic. This research used Small and Medium Enterprises (SME)

as a model. The target respondent in conducting the research is 15 for small

enterprises and 15 for medium enterprises, equivalent to 30 selected SME in

Pasig City.

The survey questionnaires were distributed to the specified target

segment. It is distributed to those qualified individuals who provided the best

possible answers needed. The researchers decided to have a random owner

and manager as the respondents to answer the survey questionnaires for the

research study about Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Approach in

Flexible Management During Pandemic.

The target respondents in various Small and Medium Enterprises for

which the research was conducted was 30 people who fill-out survey questions

using Google Forms and printed questionnaires. The expected time allotted in

conducting the survey took no more than 30 days. It is for the benefit of meeting
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the real professionals for the study at various times throughout the day. The

researchers set aside one week in tabulating and analyzing the data.

Significance of the Study

The following statement contributed to the value of the paper as it served

as a guide for the beneficiaries to use it as their reference in order to effectively

gain sufficient knowledge and apply the strategies on their businesses, its

employees and management, as well as for the government to support SMEs,

which are crucial to the nation's economy. Together with the future researchers

who may explore the content of this paper for them to grasp an idea regarding

how SMEs were affected and strategize during pandemic and the approaches

that the researchers gathered was included to help them. This manuscript sole

purpose is to benefit the following party:

Small and Medium Enterprises Management

It will provide management with the experience of SMEs during the

pandemic and their techniques to continue their businesses' operations. Along

with the significant and useful information that can help them in finding a flexible

approach in management to maintain competitiveness and stability of their

business management.

Employees

This study will give employees an awareness and understanding regarding

the certain policies in the business that may be applied in situations that can

affect them. It can also help them identify the strengths and weaknesses that
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their business has to improve and correct any potential issues about the effects

of pandemic in small and medium enterprises.

Local Government

This study will contribute to the idea of local government on how they can

help the economy to formulate strategies on saving businesses that may decline

in times of pandemic.

Future researchers

This study will give and expand knowledge applicable to the current and

future situations if another pandemic occurs. This paper can be used as a

reference for other researchers that will conduct the same or related studies, it

would help them make a well-developed research paper and be better

researchers in the future. Also, this may anticipate the processes involved in the

industry of SMEs.
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Definition of Terms
For better understanding of this study, the following were the important

terms used with their respective operational meaning:

Business strategy - refers to specific plans and goals of the company.

Corporate Agility - refers to the adaption and innovation of the company.

Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) - means a temporary

implementation of restrictions to the individual.

Flexibility - refers to the ability to quickly adapt to new situations as they arise.

Intermediaries - refers to the one who act as intermediaries between both

parties.

Operation - is the act of managing business activity so that it runs smoothly.

Pandemic - refers to the outbreak of an infectious disease caused by the SARS-

CoV-2 virus around the globe.

Profit Maximization - means the revenue of the business.

Proprietorship - refers to the individual who owned a business.

Resilience - refers to the business that quickly adapt the changers while

running a business.

Small and Medium Enterprises - based on Magna Carta for the capitalization.
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CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents the related studies conducted by individuals

pertinent to the study. These articles discuss the theories, concepts and

principles relevant to the research being undertaken by the researchers and

give synthesis of the reviewed literature and studies.

Small and Medium Enterprises

In order to influence sustainable growth in the sectors of trade,

production, and services, SMEs have an important role in the market growth of

each country domestically or even internationally.

The number of employees is the most common criterion for classifying a

company into one of a number of sizes. Entrepreneurship at a Glance

publication subdivided Small and Medium Enterprises according to their number

of employees. Businesses that have a less than 10 employees belong to small

businesses and those that have 50 - 99 employees belong to medium

businesses. The Magna Carta for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

classifies an enterprise as small if its asset size is between Php 3,000,001 and

15,000,000, and as medium if it is between Php 15,000,000 and 100,000,000.

Most of the SMEs have a proprietorship or partnership legal structure

and are run depending on the decisions of the owners and they rather focus on

maximizing their profit than expanding their business. In doing it , they use their
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own resources to finance their companies because they value returns over

investments. H.K. Baker, S. Kumar, and P. Rao (2017)

Flexibility in Management

SMEs might not be as adaptable and resilient in coping with the

expenses of these shocks, preventive expenses and essential adjustments to

the working process. For instance, given the size of small enterprises, the

transition to telework might be relatively significant, but frequently the level of

digitalization is low and access to and use of technology is challenging. The cost

of unused labor and capital weighs heavier on SMEs than on large companies

because production declines as development advances. Additionally, it may be

more challenging for SMEs to obtain information on potential business plans,

government support programs, and steps to control the virus pandemic.

Covid-19 in the Philippines

Glory Dee A. Romo (2021) claims that while numerous countries enacted

measures like movement limitations to halt the virus from spreading, the

COVID-19 pandemic has had an effect on the entire planet. All industries have

suffered as a result of the decline in global economic activity. Due to the

pandemic's increased costs, lower sales, and labor-related problems like pay or

retrenchment, businesses have suffered.

Therefore, being adaptable requires being ready for change, especially

during unplanned and unforeseen events like the COVID-19 epidemic. Adopting

compensation to stop the negative effects of layoffs on an employee's


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household from spreading. Retrenchment may be the only way for a corporation

to survive a crisis in the worst-case scenarios because enterprise strategies are

dependent on financial performance.

Flexibility in Management done by SMEs during Pandemic

Pandemic was undeniably had a big impact on the management of the

business. According to De Nicola, Mattoo, and Timmis (2021). There are

businesses that had a long-term consequences on their productivity growth due

to its indebtedness and the investment was discouraged by the uncertainty.

Most firms loss their valuable intangible assets because they were forcely close

their business and reduce the number of their valued employees.

In spite of the way that most organizations find it harder to take on

computerized advances, online deals help various SMEs to continue generating

their income. Policy responses have been swift and forceful overall, helping to

avoid a wave of bankruptcies thus far. SMEs in the industries most affected by

lockdown measures, as well as those experiencing significant sales declines,

benefited disproportionately from government assistance within countries. The

financial situation of SMEs was generally favorable prior to the COVID-19 crisis.

In response to relatively weak economic activity, long-term interest rates were

historically low and monetary policy was becoming more accommodating.

SMEs suffer from the limitations placed on people's ability to engage in

social activities, which has a negative impact on business transactions and

public consumption. SMEs are threatened when demand declines because their
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business models, like those of SMEs, are so dependent on the flow of money

from their sales. This kind of influence is important because SMEs rely heavily

on outside variables. SMEs must understand how successful they can be to

combat the crisis. They can use tactics and methods to assist their business

models endure the pandemic. (Serdar Ulubeyli, 2018).

Operations

Due to lockdowns implemented by governments in an effort to stem the

virus' transmission, the pandemic has continued to have an impact on

businesses and jobs after the Covid-19 breakout in early 2020. Data from the

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines shows that during the

pandemic's peak in March–April 2020, 38% of businesses were forced to close.

(Crismundo Kris, 2021)

The COVID-19 pandemic has had negative effects, and SMEs have

begun deploying adaptable business solutions to counter these effects. Among

these are cost savings, product and service diversity, usage of non-cash

payment alternatives, and allowing staff to work from home. Digitalization is the

use of online platforms for commercial transactions. The majority of SMEs still

require aid to recover from their losses, despite these adaptable solutions.

Enrico Gaveglia, Officer-in-Charge of UNDP Philippines, stated that the

emergence of a new market sector online in the nation depends on its digital

infrastructure.
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Since then, a lot of businesses of all sizes have used technology like

Zoom virtual meetings and other techniques to keep the economy going and

prevent a complete shutdown of the global economy. Prior to this global health

crisis, small businesses did not view the deployment of some technology as

essential (Ting; Webster, 2020). These technologies became one of the coping

techniques used by different levels of government during the COVID-19

pandemic lockdown of towns, allowing activities and projects to be managed

remotely or business meetings to be held without any direct physical contact

between participants (Vaccaro, Puddister& Small, 2020).

The pandemic and the ensuing lockdown, however, have accelerated

and exaggerated the impact that technology can have on some organizations'

economic models. Additionally, a lot of small businesses have had success

modifying and enhancing their business models using innovative techniques

(Puddister & Small, 2020; Vaccaro 2020).

Numerous businesses, including shops and industries, have closed as a

result of rules from the government, dwindling demand, poor health, and other

factors. Many of these closures may be permanent because the owners of many

of these enterprises are unable to pay ongoing expenses and survive the

shutdown. (Robert Fairlie, 2020)

Financial

Despite the unquestionable damage caused by COVID-19, our financial

sector is still strong, according to our evaluation of the market. According to BSP
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Governor Benjamin Diokno, the movements we have seen are responses to

changes in risk aversion as opposed to fundamental flaws (Kris Crismundo,

2021). While looking for outside funding to bridge shortages in working capital,

the majority of businesses depended significantly on their own funds and/or kept

profit to maintain their operations.

When the COVID-19 crisis hit, small- and medium-sized businesses'

(SMEs) financial situation was mostly favorable, according to the OECD (2021).

Long-term interest rates were extraordinarily low by historical standards and

monetary policy was becoming more accommodative to account for the

relatively subdued economic activity. Credit conditions for SMEs had improved,

with credit rejection rates at low levels and loan portfolios gradually shifting to

longer-term maturities. To finance their operations and growth, many SMEs

continued to rely significantly on internal funding sources and bank loans,

making them particularly vulnerable to economic downturns.

Research examined how many small businesses are financially fragile

and how much the crisis is affecting them, according to Alexander (2020). They

found that 43% of the businesses in their sample, which is disproportionately

skewed toward the retail industry, employed 40% fewer workers.

Strategies

SMEs have begun applying adaptive business solutions to address the

negative consequences of the COVID 19 epidemic. This includes managing

companies through digitalization and online platforms, cutting expenses,


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diversifying products and services, utilizing cashless payment alternatives, and

enabling staff to work from home.

According to Anna Brazas, one of the contributors to the US Chamber

Article, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly all Americans' daily lives

and driven them to adapt and innovate as they transition into the new normal.

Small enterprises, which had to deal with declining customers and workers while

implementing new social segregation and public health standards, have been

among the most negatively impacted groups. When they questioned small

company owners across the nation about how the coronavirus had affected their

operations, they discovered that many of them had shown resilience and viewed

the difficulty as a chance to expand their operations and keep serving their

communities.

Additionally, according to a study by Zephier Editorial Team (2020), a

quarter of small business owners work irregular hours as a result of COVID-19's

consequences. Additionally, small business owners claim that while they

struggle to adapt to a quickly shifting economic environment, they

are working harder than ever to maintain the smooth operation of their company

with less resources. Nguyen, Ngo, and Tran claim that a study of 672

Vietnamese enterprises and the obvious a regression model to investigate how

different organizations choose their coping mechanisms based on their level of

financial distress, their profiles, their entrepreneurial variables, and the

exchanges between them.


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Identifying Opportunities

Various government agencies, both existing and new, were made

available to help SMEs during the pandemic, including specific programs for

women-owned and led businesses. Some perspectives from SMEs in the food

manufacturing and food processing sectors, primarily from focus groups, on

how the crisis affected them and the assistance they were able to obtain. The

expressed needs of SMEs on the best way for businesses to recover from the

pandemic's impact were then addressed. It also incorporates the validation

workshop participants' observations. According to PWC, 2022, businesses

should look for and take advantage of opportunities as we move into the next

phase of the recovery from pandemic. This entails carrying out an "after-action

review" to gather data and insights on the lessons learned from the pandemic.

These insights will then be used to prioritize actions that will increase the value

of the business now and build strategic resilience for the future. As more

certainty and stability return, businesses that take these steps now will be better

able to take advantage of opportunities that arise during the recovery from

COVID-19 and keep winning in their markets.

The pandemic poses both opportunities and threats to small and

medium-sized businesses (SMEs). For instance, SMEs have joined the e-

commerce movement and now sell their goods online and accept cashless

payments, giving customers a safe and convenient way to shop. (BIMP-EAGE,

2020).
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According to an entrepreneur Francisco Jay Bernardo III, every crisis

brings opportunities and dangers. Businesses must look for opportunities as

well as dangers and take advantage of those opportunities that can be beneficial

to businesses. Some of the opportunities include:

 Be creative

SMEs must look at their business plans as well as their position in the

market. They will be able to plan their recovery and remain resilient in

the long run on this foundation.

 Be ready to pivot

Businesses changed course because they saw an opportunity. They did

not hesitate to take action. They recognized their strengths and shifted

their strategy accordingly. They changed their minds or they picoted

 Find a corollary business

Setting up a corollary business is a good idea for businesses that deal

with crises. For instance, establishing a logistics arm to support the main

business as a new revenue stream is one way an agribusiness company

can diversify. An owner thinks that the logistics division can help other

businesses because so many of them are going online. They emphasize

that opportunities exist among the threats. That is why it is critical to

assess your competitive position. Businesses may discover advantages

or opportunities to take advantage of, as well as strengths you were

probably unaware you possessed.


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Owners changed their business models in novel ways as they went along

to stay afloat. However, numerous small businesses have been unsuccessful.

Others have made it through and plan to use innovations developed during the

pandemic to boost their revenue and create new opportunities as the economy

recovers (Kathy Gurchiek, 2020)

Adapting to change

The pandemic has increased small and medium-sized enterprises'

(SMEs) interest in digital technology, according to the Philippine News Agency

(PNA) The Covid-19 recent World Economic Forum (WEF) report, but there are

many obstacles preventing them from adopting the technology required to

overcome pandemic-related challenges.

A recent WEF poll indicates that despite greater knowledge of the value

of digital technology, many SMEs have either halted or abandoned their efforts

to become digital because of budgetary limitations. Only 23% of SMEs,

according to the research, claimed the epidemic hastened their digitization

aspirations, demonstrating that there are still considerable impediments to using

digital technologies.

Lack of financial resources and access to them, a skilled labor force, and

infrastructure constraints to facilitate digitization are some of the obstacles.

Above increasing productivity and minimizing costs, which used to be the main

priorities for most businesses, agility and flexibility in operations have emerged

as top priorities. "In general, SMEs are becoming more interested in digital
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solutions." Furthermore, the top objectives for digital technologies were those

that allow for remote work and communication.

The suitable technology and processes require a large financial

commitment to implement. It comes as no surprise that many SMEs are having

problems given the decreased customer demand. To respond to obstacles and

seize opportunities, entrepreneurs must have greater resiliency. Because it

enables organizations to comprehend how they respond to or resist change,

resilience is a crucial notion in entrepreneurial crisis management. The

resilience of SMEs, however, is also dependent on the resilience of their

ecosystems. Resilience includes the ability to pivot and change business activity

in response to market customers and need orientation by "applying creativity to

problems to obtain opportunities." Government support or public policy;

therefore, has a significant impact on promoting small business resilience as

well as more inclusive and sustainable growth. (International Trade Centre,

2020).

Resilience comprises the ability to adapt and pivot business operations in

accordance with the direction of the market's customers and demands.

Creativity is used to overcome obstacles and seize opportunities (Ratten, 2020).

Business Process Redesign

Philippine companies must adapt to the new normal by utilizing digital

transformation strategies and improving their business models, particularly the

customer experience. Since they were expected to accelerate their transition to


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digital applications and platforms. Some firms began their journey, focusing

totally on promoting products and finding ways to gain enough revenue,

reaching out to potential customers and organizational services. (Reynaldo C.

Lugtu, Jr. 2021)

Venkatamaran and Garces (2020) stated that businesses from a variety

of sectors have started to plan and implement paradigm transformations in their

working practices as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Enterprises are

changing their old approaches and taking a fresh look at business processes,

people, technology, and risk. Prior to the pandemic, conventional business

procedures and the internal controls performed as expected. Today, businesses

have been facing limited resources as a result of the current crisis. Although,

the effectiveness of the improved procedures is being recognized by many

businesses. The established principles of the internal system and the risks that

need to be reduced have been brought into question by the company's

objectives as well as its new considerations in altering risk perceptions.

This is a great opportunity to assess how well business processes are

designed, to examine which procedures must be reduced and restructured to

help organizations become more flexible.

Small firms may consider a benchmark strategy for coping with the impact

of pandemic. Moreover, being aware of any potential changes in consumer

behavior during and after a pandemic and understanding how SMEs can

respond to the demands of the new society, wherein they can rethink their
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operations and expand the use of digital technologies. For better preparation in

the potential crises are all functional that new knowledge models may help in

the quality of a business output (Ravindran & Boch, 2020).

Approaches of SMEs to Flexible Management

Many businesses, both medium and small, have had difficulties during

pandemic. Businesses all across the world have been forced to adjust to shifting

conditions and consumer behavior as well as look for possibilities during difficult

times. This required a lot of creativity, originality, and the development of fresh

business concepts. International Business School in Barcelona (2021), some

typical business tactics that organizations have used to thrive and survive the

pandemic are listed below.

1. Investing in innovation

The amount of money invested in technological innovation has increased. In

order for businesses to remain viable, they had to make sure that their

employees could continue working from home and those customers could buy

their products or use their services online. New software, digital platforms, and

communication methods had to be developed for this.

2. Taking businesses online

Online shopping, also known as ecommerce, is currently the most popular

method of shopping worldwide. However, a GoDaddy survey found that only 7%

of Spanish small businesses have a website that acts as a sales channel. This

suggests that many Spanish businesses must have e-commerce websites.


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3. Responding to demands in logistics

Ecommerce has increased dramatically over the past year, which has

increased demand for reliable and effective logistics. Smaller firms in particular

have felt the pressure to react quickly to logistical demands in order to ensure

their survival throughout the pandemic.

4. Changing the business model

To survive, businesses must be strong, flexible, and creative. Agile business

modeling is a new corporate strategy born out of the epidemic. Business agility

is the capacity of an organization to quickly respond to new situations, be

inventive, push change, and maintain its competitive advantage. If a company

can keep its adaptability during these times, its prospects of success and

survival are greatly boosted.

5. Rebranding the company image

Companies can differentiate themselves from the competition by updating

their brand image or launching fresh products in response to current trends. By

rebranding, businesses can take advantage of psychological techniques. This

is because it affects how consumers see the brand and encourages them to

engage with it.


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CHAPTER III
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents a description of the method used by the researcher

in this study. The presentation includes the research design, sampling scheme,

description of the respondents, instrumentation, validation of instrument, data

gathering procedure and statistical treatment of data.

Research Method Used

The descriptive approach was used to analyze and answer the questions

in this study. This includes gathering data and information, which lead to data

interpretation and aid researchers developing a solution to a problem.

A descriptive study's objective is to meticulously and accurately

characterize a population, circumstance, or event. In order to give context and

explanation for readers, quantitative research necessitates thought on the part

of the researchers both before and during the study process. In order for readers

to more easily understand the filters through which questions were posed, data

will be gathered and analyzed, and findings will be reported, systematic

researchers will take into account and clearly articulate their position and

subjectivities rather than just ignoring or avoiding their own biases.

Bias and subjectivity are defined up front in a clear and understood way

for readers since while they are not necessarily bad things, they are

inescapable. Researchers strive to reduce any potential risk to the participants

while also maximizing their own personal gain. Respect is shown for each
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research participant as well as the rules governing data and personal

information confidentiality.

Secondary data was also utilized by researchers. This information has

already been gathered and is available from other sources without difficulty.

This secondary information can be found in a variety of places, such as books,

industry studies, updated databases, and electronic information systems. It is

simpler and more practical to gather information from secondary sources in

such circumstances.

Population Frame and Sample

This study will involve thirty (30) random owners of small and medium

sized enterprises, 15 for small enterprises and 15 for medium enterprises in

Pasig City. Researchers used random sampling techniques to be criteria for the

selection of family-owned businesses or any businessman that leads to a

downfall due to the pandemic falls to the SME category offering products or

services.

Participants who can provide in-depth information about the topic being

studied are sought out using this strategy. The quantitative researchers who set

the requirements that each participant must satisfy in order to be included in a

research study determine this, which is highly arbitrary.


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Description of the Respondents

The study respondents are owners and managers under SMEs in Pasig

City. The researchers were divided into 15 small and 15 medium-sized firms to

balance the results and better understand how the recent economic crisis

affected the business in question.

The business under study will cover either service, merchandising or

manufacturing products. Selected SMEs were chosen randomly from Pasig City

where the business is in operation during the pandemic .

Research Instruments

The research-designed questionnaire on the Small and Medium

Enterprises (SMEs) Approach in Flexible Management During Pandemic was

the research instrument employed in this study.

1. Survey - (Open and Closed-Ended)

For this study, researchers used online survey-questionnaire

instruments such as google forms and printed questionnaires in order to collect

information from our population of interest. A Google form was sent online and

printed questionnaires were administered in-person to connect with some

companies of the selected SMEs in Pasig City. The questionnaire was given to

the owners or managers of enterprises that are open-ended that will require an

answer in their experiences. The survey questionnaire was self-made based

on the statement of the problem. The research instrument was composed of

two parts to get the proper data needed.


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Part 1. In this part, researchers gathered respondents’ demographic profile of

selected businesses such as their nature of business, years of operation and

capitalization to be a qualified respondent.

Part 2. In this part, the researchers used another set of questions, a Likert

scale multiple choice questions. It covers the effects of pandemic and

flexibility in management taken by SMEs. The questionnaire was created to

limit the respondents' options to a number range.

Part 2 was quantified using the following relative values:

Table 1
Likert Scale Interpretations

Scale Range Verbal Interpretation

4 3.50 – 4.49 Strongly Agree

3 2.50 – 3.49 Agree

2 1.50 – 2.49 Disagree

1 1.00 – 1.49 Strongly Disagree

Furthermore, the information gained by closed-ended questions allowed

researchers to categorize respondents into groups based on the options they

selected.

After the formulation of the questionnaire, it was then submitted to the

adviser and validators for comments and validation. Further revisions and

refinement have been made for final drafting before distribution. After

revisions of the questionnaire, researchers conduct a reliability test for


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10respondents before conducting the actual survey to assess the quality of

the measurement procedure used to collect data.

Data Gathering Procedures

The first step used was to ask permission from the researcher adviser

regarding conducting the survey questionnaire. The researcher sought from

the respondents and the managers of the selected SMEs in Pasig City through

a letter of request to conduct this study. To clearly identify the small and

medium businesses in Pasig City, researchers sent a request letter to the LGU

Pasig to have a copy of the registered SMEs. In distributing the questionnaires,

researchers made sure that they complied with RA 10173, also known as the

Philippine Data Privacy Act of 2012, that they were providing a consent letter

first to the respondents before answering the survey in voluntary participation.

Researchers made sure that all the information from the respondents were kept

confidential and for academic purposes only. After the researchers already had

a list and the approval to conduct a survey, the questionnaires were distributed

to the respondents through google form and printed questionnaires to gather

the relevant data. Retrieval of questionnaires followed and the retrieved forms

were analyzed, tabulated, and interpreted as indicated in the next chapter.

Statistical Treatment of Data

After the researcher collected the survey data, relevant data was

tabulated and arranged with the following statistics that provided the place to
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interpret data effectively. This study utilized descriptive analysis to some

problems in this study, including the researcher’s frequent distribution.

The researchers tallied and tabulated the data using Microsoft Excel in

order to proceed in statistical analysis.

1. Frequency and Percentage

This was used to help the researchers to make inferences about the

population. Through utilizing the frequency and percentage, it helps the

researcher to describe the profile of the respondents according to the research

problem provided in the statement of the problem number 1. The symbol %

was used to show that a number is a percentage and in frequency distribution

the individual class frequencies are expressed as a percentage of the total

frequency.

Formula:

Relative Frequency(rf) = Frequency(f) ÷ Number of Observations(N)


𝐹
and % = 𝑁 x 100

Where:

% - Percentage

F - Frequency

N = Total Number of Respondents


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2. Average Weighted Mean

This was used to determine the assessment of the respondent switch

regard to their business profiles.

Formula:
𝐹𝑥
X =𝑁

X= Weighted Mean

F = Frequency

x = Weight of each Item

N = Number of Respondents

3. Pearson R.

This is a measure to determine the relationship between flexibility in

management in terms of Innovation, Labor Force, Supply Chain and the effects

of pandemic to SMEs Operations, Financial and Strategies.

Formula:

Where:

r = correlation coefficient

xi = values of the x-variable in a sample

x = mean of the values of the x-variable

yi = values of the y-variable in a sample

y = mean of the values of the y-variable


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CHAPTER IV
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

This chapter covers the results, findings, analysis and interpretation of

the data gathered by the researchers and in accordance with the research

problem. Presented data were studied and documents were examined to

answer the questions communicated in the statement of the problem. The

analytical procedures are arranged according to the sequence of specific

questions in Chapter 1.

1. Demographic Profile of Business

1.1 Nature of Business

Table 2
Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Respondents as
to Nature of Business

Nature of Business Frequency Percentage Rank


Manufacturing 5 16.67 3
Merchandising 12 40.00 1
Service 10 33.33 2
Hybrid business 3 10.00 4
Total 30 100.00

Table 2 shows the frequency and percentage distribution of respondents

in terms of the nature of business they owned. It is significant to note that the

"majority of the respondents were merchandising owners " with a frequency of

12 or 40% followed by the service with a frequency of 10 or 33.33%;

Manufacturing with 5 or 16.67%; and the least is the hybrid business with only

3 or 10%.
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According to Kujtim Hameli (2018), The retail industry, which deals

directly with consumers, is likely the most significant sector of the economy. All

businesses that provide goods and services to the final customer for domestic

and personal use are included, from kiosks and local grocers to national grocery

chains and shopping centers.

1.2 Years in Operation

Table 3
Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Respondents as
to Years in Operation

Years of Operation Frequency Percentage Rank


1-4 years 9 30.00 2
5-9 years 11 36.67 1
10-14 years 3 10.00 4
over 15 years 7 23.33 3
Total 30 100.00

Table 3 shows the frequency and percentage distribution of respondents

with regard to years in the operation of their business. "Most of the respondents

have been operating from the span of 5-9 years " with the frequency of 11 and

36.67%. Followed by 1-4 years of operation with the frequency of 9 and 30%,

over15 years of operation with 7 and 23.33%, 10-14 years operation with 3 and

10% and the shortest span of operating a business was less than 1 year having

a 0 frequency and percentage. UP-ISSI Diliman (2020) cites data showing that

62.9% of the workforce in the Philippines was employed by 99.62% of SMEs in

2017.
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1.3 Capitalization

Table 4
Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Respondents
as to Capitalization
Capitalization Frequency Percentage Rank
₱3,000,001 - ₱10,000,000 6 20.00 3
₱10,000,001 - ₱15,000,000 9 30.00 2
₱15,000,001 - ₱25,000,000 12 40.00 1
₱25,000,001 and above 3 10.00 4
Total 30 100.00

Table 4 shows that 50% of the respondents are small businesses with

capital ranging from ₱3,000,001 - ₱10,000,000 having 20% and ₱10,000,001

- ₱15,000,000 having 30% , and the other 50% of the respondents are coming

from medium businesses with capital ranging from ₱15,000,001 - ₱25,000,000

having 40% and ₱25,000,001 and above having 10 %.

According to Chris Crismundo (2021) The majority of businesses relied

largely on their own cash and/or maintained profits to keep their operations

running while looking into external funding to bridge any shortages in working

capital.
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2. Effects of Pandemic in SMEs


2.1 Operations
Table 5
Mean Result of the Effect of Pandemic to the SMEs
in terms of Operation

Verbal
Operations Mean Interpretation Rank
1. Demand for numerous types of 3.03 Agree 3
products is dropping.
2. Difficulty in production and raw 3.00 Agree 4
material suppliers.
3. Due to shortages and logistics 3.17 Agree 1
bottlenecks, it is becoming more
difficult to send and receive
products on time.
4. Experiencing sales activity 3.13 Agree 2
disruption
5. Activities of business were being 2.90 Agree 5
closed by the government at the
height of the pandemic in March
to April 2020.
Average Mean 3.05 Agree
Legend: Strongly Disagree (SD) = 1.00-1.49, Disagree(D) = 1.50-2.49, Agree(A) = 2.50-
3.49 and Strongly Agree (SA) = 3.50-4.49

Table 5 shows that "due to shortages and logistics bottlenecks, it is

becoming more difficult to send and receive products on time ” and the rated

mean is 3.17 followed by experiencing sales activity disruption with the

rated mean of 3.13, the demand for numerous types of products dropping with

the mean of 3.03, the difficulty in production and raw material suppliers; at the

least, activities of business were being closed by the government at the height

of the pandemic in March to April 2020 with the mean of 2.90. The respondents

“Agree” that some areas in the selected SMEs have been affected by the
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pandemic in terms of Operations with the overall weighted mean of 3.05.

Variety of enterprises, including stores, factories, and many more, have

shut down due to government regulations, declining demand, ill health, or other

reasons. Because the proprietors of many of these businesses are unable to

cover ongoing costs and survive the shutdown, many of these closures might

be permanent. (Robert Fairlie, 2020).

2.2 Financial

Table 6
Mean Result of the Effect of Pandemic to the SMEs
in terms of Financial

Verbal
Financial Mean Interpretation Rank
1. Sudden decrease in sales and 2.93 Agree 2
revenues.
2. Increasing costs on creation and 3.03 Agree 1
delivering the products to the
consumers.
3. Over indebtedness or numerous 2.60 Agree 4
credit loans to support financing
4. Simultaneous liquidity crisis, a 2.93 Agree 2
lack of cash or easily-
convertible-to-cash assets on
hand.
5. Availability of purchases of 2.93 Agree 2
inventory on payable.
Average Mean 2.88 Agree 3
Legend: Strongly Disagree (SD) = 1.00-1.49, Disagree(D) = 1.50-2.49, Agree(A) =
2.50- 3.49 and Strongly Agree (SA) = 3.50-4.49

Table 6 shows that the "increasing costs on creation and delivering

the products to the consumers" with the rated mean of 3.03 followed by the

simultaneous liquidity crisis, a lack of cash or easily-convertible-to-cash assets


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on hand, availability of purchases of inventory on payable and sudden decrease

in sales and revenues with the rated mean of 2.93; at the least of over

indebtedness or numerous credit loans to support financing with the mean of

2.60.

According to Alexander (2020), research analyzed how many small firms

are financially vulnerable and how much the crisis is affecting them. They

discovered that 40% fewer people were employed and that 43% of the

enterprises in their sample, which is heavily weighted toward the retail industry.

2.3 Strategies

Table 7
Mean Result of the Effect of Pandemic to the SMEs
in terms of Strategies

Verbal
Strategies Mean Interpretation Rank
1. Strategies worked with limited 3.30 Agree 3
resources
2. Lack of flexible work strategies 2.97 Agree 5
for employees
3. An evident retrenchment, cutting 3.03 Agree 4
back or a reduction of employees
to get back within budget.
4. Continuous act to preserve 3.37 Agree 1
ongoing activities with the aim of
maintaining the existing state of
the business.
5. Has been able to engage in 3.33 Agree 2
innovative strategic renewal and
explore opportunities.
Average Mean 3.20 Agree
Legend: Strongly Disagree (SD) = 1.00-1.49, Disagree(D) = 1.50-2.49, Agree(A) =
2.50- 3.49 and Strongly Agree (SA) = 3.50-4.49
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Table 7 in the previous page shows that they "continuously act to

preserve ongoing activities with the aim of maintaining the existing state of the

business " with the rated mean of 3.37 followed by they have been able to

engage in innovative strategic renewal and explore opportunities with the rated

mean of 3.33. Followed by the strategies worked with limited resources with

the mean of 3.30. Followed by an evident retrenchment, cutting back or a

reduction of employees to get back within budget with the rated mean of 3.03;

and at the least the lack of flexible work strategies for employees with the mean

of 2.97. The average score is 3.20, demonstrating that the responders have a

strategy in place for dealing with a pandemic.

SMEs suffer from the limitations placed on people's ability to engage in

social activities, which has a negative impact on business transactions and

public consumption. SMEs are threatened when demand declines because their

business models, like those of SMEs, are so dependent on the flow of money

from their sales. This kind of influence is important because SMEs rely heavily

on outside variables. SMEs must understand how successful they can be to

combat the crisis. They can use tactics and methods to assist their business

models endure the pandemic (Serdar Ulubeyli, 2018).


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3. Flexibility in Management taken by SMEs

3.1 Identifying Opportunities

Table 8
Mean Result of the Flexibility in Management of
Selected SMEs in terms of Identifying Opportunities

Verbal
Identifying Opportunities Mean Interpretation Rank
1. Was able to reassess their 3.40 Agree 1
growth opportunities in the new
normal.
2. Those opportunities can 3.27 Agree 3
reallocate their capital more
efficiently.
3. The business looks for an 3.30 Agree 2
income strategy to adjust their
operation amidst pandemic.
4. Examined the industry trends 3.17 Agree 4
and insights.
5. Focused to the needs and 3.03 Agree 5
desires of its customer.
Average Mean 3.23 Agree
Legend: Strongly Disagree (SD) = 1.00-1.49, Disagree(D) = 1.50-2.49, Agree(A) = 2.50-
3.49 and Strongly Agree (SA) = 3.50-4.49

Table 8 shows that "the respondents were able to reassess their growth

opportunities in the new normal " with the rated mean of 3.40 followed by the

business looking for income strategy to adjust their operation amidst pandemic

with the mean of 3.30. Followed by the opportunities can reallocate their capital

more efficiently with a rated mean of 3.27. Followed by the examined the

industry trends and insights with the mean of 3.17; at the least was to focused

to the needs and desires of its customer with the mean of 3.03. 60% of the

respondents strongly agreed and the remaining 40% respondents agreed on


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the flexibility in management of selected SMEs in terms of Identifying

Opportunities with the average mean of 3.23.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) must consider

opportunities as well as the threats posed by the coronavirus disease (COVID-

19) pandemic. Some SMEs, for example, have jumped on the e-commerce

bandwagon to sell their products online and accept cashless payments,

providing customers with a safe and convenient way to shop (BIMP-EAGE,

2020).

3.2 Adapting to change

Table 9
Mean Result of the Flexibility in Management of
Selected SMEs in terms of Adapting to Change

Verbal
Adapting to Change Mean Interpretation Rank
1. Adapted successfully to a rapidly 3.40 Strongly Agree 2.5
changing business environment.
2. Adopted advanced technology. 3.40 Strongly Agree 2.5
3. Sustained protection systems. 3.23 Agree 4
4. The business adjusts their 3.43 Strongly Agree 1
workforce necessary for operation
and to cut down expenses.
5. Had new partnerships, both within 2.83 Agree 5
and outside of the industry.
Average Mean 3.26 Strongly Agree
Legend: Strongly Disagree (SD) = 1.00-1.49, Disagree(D) = 1.50-2.49, Agree(A) = 2.50-
3.49 and Strongly Agree (SA) = 3.50-4.49

Table 9 shows that "the business adjusts their workforce necessary for

operation and to cut down expenses " with the mean of 3.43 followed by the
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adapted successfully to a rapidly changing business environment and adapted

advanced technology with the rated mean of 3.40.

Implementation of creativity to difficulties to get opportunities resilience

includes a sense of creative and innovative ability to pivot and adjust company

activity in accordance with the orientation of the market's customers and

demands (Ratten, 2020).

3.3 Business Process Redesign

Table 10
Mean Result of the Flexibility in Management of
Selected SMEs in terms of Business Process Redesign

Verbal
Business Process Redesign Mean Interpretation Rank
1. Was able to set up clear goals and 2.97 Agree 5
objectives for processing the
adoption of a new business model.
2. Observed current performance of 3.20 Agree 2
the business and identified areas
that have gaps.
3. Applied new ideas in redesigning 3.10 Agree 4
and developing changes that solves
areas that are lacking.
4. Had continuously monitored 3.13 Agree 3
business performance as a result of
the new design.
5. Analyzed the results of gathered 3.23 Agree 1
information in the current process
and decide if it will be continued or
stopped.
Average Mean 3.13 Agree
Legend: Strongly Disagree (SD) = 1.00-1.49, Disagree(D) = 1.50-2.49, Agree(A) = 2.50-
3.49 and Strongly Agree (SA) = 3.50-4.49

Table 10 shows that "they analyzed the results of gathered information

in the current process and decided if it will be continued or stopped " with the
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OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 40

mean 3.23 followed by the observed current performance of the business and

identified areas that have gaps with the mean of 3.20. Followed by that they

had continuously monitored business performance as a result of the new design

with the mean of 3.13. Followed by they applied new ideas in redesigning and

developing changes that solves areas that are lacking with the mean of 3.10; at

the least they were able to set up clear goals and objectives for processing the

adoption of a new business model with the rated mean of 2.97 and with the

average mean of 3.13.

According to Venkatamaran and Garces(2020), firms from all sectors

have started to plan and put into practice paradigm reforms in their business

practices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses are changing

how they approach traditional approaches and taking a fresh look at people,

technology, risk, and business processes.


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4. Is there a significant relationship between the effect of pandemic

and the approach in the SMEs management particularly in

operations?

Table 11
Correlation Result on the Relationship Between the
Effect of Pandemic and the Approach in the SMEs Management

Effects of Flexibility in Pearson Sig. (2- Alpha Significance


Pandemic Management R tailed)
Operation Identifying .235 .211 0.05 Not
Opportunities Significant
Adapting to .119 .530 0.05 Not
Change Significant
Business .077 .685 0.05 Not
Process Significant
Redesign
Financial Identifying .031 .871 0.05 Not
Opportunities Significant
Adapting to .349 .059 0.05 Not
Change Significant
Business .159 .402 0.05 Not
Process Significant
Redesign
Strategies Identifying .782 .000 0.05 Significant
Opportunities
Adapting to .680 .000 0.05 Significant
Change
Business .491 .006 0.05 Significant
Process
Redesign
Note: If p-value is less than or equal to the level of significance (0.05) reject Ho, otherwise
fail to reject Ho.

Table 11 shows "correlation results between Effects of Pandemic in

SMEs and Flexibility in Management taken by SMEs. " Researchers used

Pearson R or product-moment correlation to determine the relationship between

the effects of pandemic in terms of Operation, Financial and Strategies, and the
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Flexibility in Management taken by SMEs in terms of Identifying Opportunities,

Adapting to Change and Business Process Redesign. The table above

summarizes the results of the correlations, as well as their significance and

interpretation.

Hence, based on the values presented above, the "null hypothesis was

failed to reject for the variables effects of pandemic " in terms of Operation,

Financial and Strategies, and the flexibility in management taken by SMEs in

terms of Identifying Opportunities, Adapting to Change and Business Process

Redesign. The researchers will conclude that "there is no significant relationship

between the effect of pandemic and the SMEs flexibility in management. "

According to De Nicola, Mattoo, and Timmis (2021), the findings of the

study are in conflict. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) have

allegedly been disproportionately impacted. The pandemic will have a long-term

effect on productivity development because firm debt and greater uncertainty

discourage investment and cause business closures and job losses that result

in the loss of important intangible assets.


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5. What action plan can be proposed in SMEs for adapting the

changes?

Table 12
Proposed Action Plan in SMEs for Adapting to the Changes

Performance Strategy Time


Needs Needs to Strategy to be Utilized Frame
Improvement be
Improved
Financial Business Debt-related financial risk One-year
Process Owners of businesses must be
Redesign mindful of their debt. Avoid
taking out any loans or
borrowing money that can
lower the future net worth of
your company. High interest
rates, fees, and severe loan
repayment terms are some
indicators of bad debt;
therefore, business owners
should think about their future
cash flow for the expansion
and success of their
enterprises.
Adapting new profitable 6 months
technology
Making digital investments
encourages collaboration
among actively involved
employees, improves
decision-making, and
increases profitability. Many
businesses can be productive
and efficient for their clients
and owners by embracing
social media and e-commerce.
The use of digital marketing
technology can improve a
company's online visibility.
They can keep track of all the
required paperwork, invoices,
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and deductions using modern


technology. Technological
developments demonstrate to
your clients that you are aware
of their needs. You may
advertise your product online,
and customers can purchase it
from your website or another
social media account.

Table 12 outlines the plan that business owners must follow "in order to

develop their operations without taking out loans or borrowing money and by

putting money into new technologies that will help them to make a profit. " These

tactics are based on the average weighted mean, which reveals that business

owners have the lowest performance in finance and business process redesign.

Therefore, the study developed a plan that could help them generate a profit

and give them knowledge about this research.


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CHAPTER V
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter outlines the study on Approach in Flexible Management of

Small and Medium Enterprises during pandemic. It emphasized the result of the

quantitative data analysis to come up with findings and conclusions drawn from

the research that serve as the basis for the recommendations.

Summary of Findings

The following observations were drawn from the result of the

questionnaires and interview:

1. Demographic Profile of Business

1.1 Nature of Business

According to the data, merchandising is the majority of SMEs in

Pasig City. The stores that offer goods and services to the final consumer

for domestic and personal use fall under this kind of business.

1.2 Years in Operation

According to the data gathered, most of the selected SMEs in

Pasig have an experience varying from 5-9 years and 1-4 years in

operating their business, while the remaining selected SMEs have 10

years and up business operations. With less than 1 year in operation, none

of the respondents have this period of experience.


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1.3 Capitalization

According to the result of the data, SMEs around Pasig City. In

terms of small enterprises' capitalization, commonly ranging from 3 million

to 14 million. On the other hand, Medium Enterprises are still common at

the city stated, but in different range of capitalization.

2. Effects of Pandemic in SMEs

2.1 Operations

Small and medium-sized firms have reported that the pandemic's

consequences are more apparent in their day-to-day operations, and they

concur that these effects include lower demand for a number of product

categories and disruptions in sales activity.

2.2 Financial

Confirming the result, respondents agreed that the pandemic

financially impacted some areas of selected small businesses. The

pandemic's impact on businesses was huge and decreased their sales

and profits.

2.3 Strategies

According to the result, the respondents strongly agreed that the

pandemic will require creative methods and possibilities in addition to

restricted resources and business continuity. And agreed due to the lack

of strategies for staff and the reductions.


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3. Flexibility in management taken by selected SMEs

3.1 Identifying

Opportunities According to the data collected, the majority of the

chosen SMEs in Pasig highly agreed, and the remaining agreed, that they

were able to have a flexible approach in their management and had

identified opportunities within their company.

3.2 Adapting to change

As stated in the data gathered, the highly significant factor is the

adjustment to their workforce necessary for the operation and adapting to

the new technologies. This shows the company's response to the

importance of adjusting and adopting new technologies during the

pandemic.

3.3 Business Process Redesign

In business process redesign, small and medium enterprises

prioritize on observing their current performance and identifying the areas

that they have gaps. On top of that, they analyze the results of the

information they gathered in their current process during the pandemic and

then tend to decide if they will continue it or stop.

4. Is there a significant relationship between the effect of pandemic and

the approach in the SMEs management particularly in operations?


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All of the variables in the flexibility in management were considered

by the surveyed companies not significantly related to the effect of

pandemic and the flexibility approach in SMEs.

5. Proposed Action Plan for SMEs in Adapting the Changes

The researcher proposed the plan of action for SMEs for the performance

that needs to improve based on the result of findings where businesses may

utilize the proposed strategy in times of an unforeseen crisis.

Conclusions

Based on the foregoing findings, the following conclusions were drawn:

1. Merchandising is the most common type of business establishment in Pasig

City that buys finished products and resells them to consumers, such as

grocery stores, drug stores, and other businesses that sell products to

individuals and buy in small quantities, with the majority operating for less

than five to nine years. Since the pandemic, a large number of SMEs have

suffered financial, operational, and strategic problems.

2. Lack of supplies and operational bottlenecks make it more challenging for

small and medium-sized businesses to send and receive goods on time. In

terms of their business finances, businesses most likely suffer increased

costs on their creation and providing their products to their consumers.

3. Selected SMEs in Pasig City have applied a flexible approach and

strategized effectively in their management during the pandemic. However,


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implementing additional strategies is encouraged to have enough

preparation that may affect the quality of their business processes.

4. There is sufficient evidence to prove that there is no significant

relationship between the Effects of Pandemic and Flexibility in

management taken by Small and Medium Enterprises in Pasig City.

5. The proposed action planned goal consists of strategies for the SMEs to

successfully adapt to changes regarding the effect that the pandemic

caused in the operations of their businesses.

Recommendations

The recommendations listed below are based on the findings and

conclusions and are provided:

1. Small and medium-sized businesses must reassess their visions, aims,

and objectives to take into account, among other things, changes in their

clients, competitors, and other circumstances. One aspect of this is the

exponential growth of digital communications and transformation, which is

a significant factor for businesses.

2. In order to retain the business during a pandemic, small and medium

business owners should be flexible as possible and search for ways to

support both the company and its employees. They may also need to

balance their products and services at this time. A contingency plan is

also needed, to look for renegotiating and fixing the expenses.


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3. Government must conduct more business seminars on how to survive the

business in unforeseen crises to encourage businesses in accessing and

considering different flexibility in management that will help them to

survive in a pandemic while managing the risk.

4. The researchers' suggested action plan for small and medium-sized

businesses is presented in Table 11 and was developed in consideration

of the study's findings. This action plan is designed to assist business

owners in reorganizing their business processes and improving their

financial situation.

5. Future researchers can also widen the location of study from Pasig City,

to Metro Manila. They may also shift from Small and Medium Enterprise

to Macro to Micro business. Considering other variables in flexibility in

management to have other information that can help them identify a

relationship on the effect of pandemic in terms of operation, financial and

strategy.
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REFERENCES

Adam, N. A., &Alarifi, G. (2021, May 27). Innovation practices for survival of

small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the COVID-19 times: The

role of external support. SpringerOpen. https://innovation-

entrepreneurship.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s13731-021-

00156-6

ART TIBALDO CONSUMERS ATBP. (2019, February 18). Sucuri website

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the-magna-carta-for-micro-small-and-medium-

enterprises#:~:text=The%20Magna%20Carta%20for%20MSMEs,bus

iness%20environment%20conducive%20for%20MSMEs

Beglaryan, M., &Shakhmuradyan, G. (2020, September 15). The impact of

COVID-19 on small and medium-sized enterprises in Armenia:

Evidence from a labor force survey. Small Business International

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DTI. (2021, August 31). MSME resources. Department of Trade and Industry

Philippines. https://www.dti.gov.ph/negosyo/msme-

resources/?gclid=CjwKCAiAyfybBhBKEiwAgtB7fmP8wYR4uVjAHmC

CQj3C_WKSCQbafPoAXsZBf-veKkv1LsBXlhu7exoCitQQAvD_BwE
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OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 52

DTI. (2022, August 8). Useful articles for MSMEs during COVID-19 crisis.

Department of Trade and Industry Philippines.

https://dti.gov.ph/covid19/tech-tools/msmes-articles/

Duke. (n.d.). Entrepreneurship. Front Page | Continuing Studies.

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CAiAyfybBhBKEiwAgtB7fuHtuK9ZHioROtBNTruWrR_nu0Mj6_2nMo

kdQgo3hqZ5ydidzTIK5RoC1f4QAvD_BwE

Estremera, R. (n.d.). "Organizational resilience and impacts of the COVID-19

pandemic on Philippine businesses". Home.

https://www2.upmin.edu.ph/index.php/news-sp-5975/5288-

organizational-resilience-and-impacts-of-the-covid-19-pandemic-on-

philippine-businesses

Fairlie, R. (2020, August 27). The impact of COVID‐19 on small business

owners: Evidence from the first three months after widespread social ‐

distancing restrictions. PubMed Central (PMC).

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Global Economic Prospects. (2022, January). Global Outlook. Open

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9781464817601-ch01.pdf
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Hameli, K. (2018, October). Directory of open access journals. Directory of

Open Access Journals – DOAJ.

https://doaj.org/article/dd68d85178954aee803b9b1b5a4f1ef3

Harel, R. (2021, September 3). The Impact of COVID-19 on Small Businesses’

Performance and InnovationVol.8(1). Global Business Review.

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/09721509211039145

Mirkhalili, T. A., &Mahmoudabadi, H. K. (2018, January 8). The effect of

financial flexibility on financial behavior of companies listed in Tehran

stock exchange. SCIRP Open Access.

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Nguyen, H. H., Ngu, V. M., & Tran, A. N. (2021, February 2). Financial

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Research | IDEAS/RePEc.

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Onwuegbuzie, H. N., &Agwu, M. E. (2018, September 26). Effects of

international marketing environments on entrepreneurship

development. SpringerOpen. https://innovation-

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Venkatamaran, C. (2022, January 18). How business process redesign in 'New

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new-normal-can-help-maximize-value/

Wilmoth, D. (2021, March). The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Small

Businesses. Office of Advocacy. https://cdn.advocacy.sba.gov/wp-

content/uploads/2021/03/02112318/COVID-19-Impact-On-Small-

Business.pdfv
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APPENDICES
(Appendix A – K)
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APPENDIX A
Survey Questionnaire
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Approach in Flexible Management
During Pandemic
Name (Optional):_______________________________________________
Business Name (Optional):______________________________________
Position of the Respondent:______________________________________
PART I. DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF THE BUSINESS RESPONDENTS
Instructions: Please check the appropriate box provided below.
A. Nature of Business
Manufacturing
Merchandising
Service
Hybrid Business
Others (please specify):_
B. Years in Operation

Less than 1 year


1 – 4 years
5 – 9 years
10 – 14 years
15 years and above
C. Capitalization

₱3,000,001 - ₱10,000,000
₱10,000,001 - ₱15,000,00
₱15,000,001 - ₱25,000,000
₱25,000,001 and above
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PART II. EFFECTS OF PANDEMIC IN SMALL AND MEDIUM


ENTERPRISES

Instruction: Please indicate the level of effect of pandemic in your business


with each of the following statements. Put check (/) on the number based on
the following scale.
Rate Meaning Description
4 Strongly Agree It means that you strongly agree, and
(SA) that the indicated statement was
definitely applied to your business
during the pandemic.
3 Agree (A) It means that you agree, and that the
indicated statement was somehow
applied to your business during the
pandemic.
2 Disagree (D) It means that you disagree, and that
the indicated statement was not
applied to your business during the
pandemic.
1 Strongly Disagree It means that you strongly disagree
and that the indicated statement was
(SD)
definitely not applied to your business
during the pandemic.

A. Operations 4 3 2 1
(SA) (A) (D) (SD)
1. Demand for numerous
types of products is
dropping.
2. Difficulty in production and
raw material suppliers
3. Due to shortages and
logistics bottlenecks, it is
becoming more difficult to
send and receive products
on time
4. Experiencing sales activity
disruption.
5. Activities of business were
being closed by the
government at the height
of the pandemic in March
to April 2020.
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4 3 2 1
B. Financial (SA) (A) (D) (SD)
1. Sudden decrease in sales
and revenues
2. Increasing costs on
creation and delivering the
products to the consumers.
3. Over indebtedness or
numerous credit loans to
support financing
4. Simultaneous liquidity
crisis, a lack of cash or
easily-convertible-to-cash
assets on hand
5. Availability of purchases of
inventory on payable.
4 3 2 1
C. Strategies (SA) (A) (D) (SD)
1. Sudden decrease in sales
and revenues
2. Increasing costs on
creation and delivering the
products to the consumers.
3. Over indebtedness or
numerous credit loans to
support financing
4. Simultaneous liquidity
crisis, a lack of cash or
easily-convertible-to-cash
assets on hand
5. Availability of purchases of
inventory on payable.
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PART III. FLEXIBILITY IN MANAGEMENT TAKEN BY SMEs

Instruction: Please indicate the level of flexibility in management of your


business during pandemic with each of the following statements. Put check (/)
on the number based on the following scale.
Rate Meaning Description
4 Strongly Agree It means that you strongly agree, and
(SA) that the indicated statement was
definitely applied to your business
during the pandemic.
3 Agree (A) It means that you agree, and that the
indicated statement was somehow
applied to your business during the
pandemic.
2 Disagree (D) It means that you disagree, and that
the indicated statement was not
applied to your business during the
pandemic.
1 Strongly Disagree It means that you strongly disagree
and that the indicated statement was
(SD)
definitely not applied to your business
during the pandemic.

A. Identifying Opportunities 4 3 2 1
(SA) (A) (D) (SD)

1. Was able to reassess their growth


opportunities in the new normal

2. That opportunities can reallocate


their capital more efficiently.

3. The business looks for income


strategy to adjust their operation
amidst pandemic

4. Examined the industry trends and


insights.

5. Focused to the needs and desires


of its customers.
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60
OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

4 3 2 1
B. Adapting to Change (SA) (A) (D) (SD)

1. Adapted successfully to a rapidly


changing business environment

2. Adopted advanced technology.

3. Sustained protection systems.

4. The business adjusts their


workforce necessary for operation
and to cut down expenses

5. Had new partnerships, both within


and outside of the industry.

4 3 2 1
C. Business Process Redesign (SA) (A) (D) (SD)

1. Was able to set up clear goals


and objectives for processing the
adoption of a new business
model.

2. Observed current performance of


the business and identified areas
that have gaps.

3. Applied new ideas in redesigning


and developing changes that
solves areas that are lacking.

4. Had continuously monitored


business performance as a result
of the new design.

5. Analyzed the results of gathered


information in the current process
and decided if it will be continued
or stopped.
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APPENDIX B
Letter for Validation of Instrument

Rizal Technological University


College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy
Brgy. Maybunga , Pasig City

August 17, 2022

Dear Ms. Parlero:

Greetings!
We, the researchers, are 4th year BSBA Major in Operations
Management student at Rizal Technological University are currently
undertaking research entitled, “SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SME)
APPROACH IN FLEXIBLE MANAGEMENT DURING PANDEMIC”
With your expertise, we are humbly asking your permission to validate
the attached survey questionnaire for our study.
Thank you very much for your cooperation and for accepting our request.
May God bless you.

Respectfully Yours,

Bejar, Jade Daryl Pansacala, Kristel Dianne B.


Reseacher Researcher

Cerojales, Recem Cymon M. Yokota, Yuugi R.


Researcher Researcher

Lignes, Rusell
Researcher

Noted by:

Jennylyn M. Marcelino, MBA


Thesis Adviser
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62

Letter for Validation of Instrument

Rizal Technological University


College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy
Brgy. Maybunga , Pasig City

August 22, 2022

Dear Mr. Lastrollo:


Greetings!
We, the researchers, are 4th year BSBA Major in Operations
Management student at Rizal Technological University are currently
undertaking research entitled, “SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SME)
APPROACH IN FLEXIBLE MANAGEMENT DURING PANDEMIC”
With your expertise, we are humbly asking your permission to validate
the attached survey questionnaire for our study.
Thank you very much for your cooperation and for accepting our request.
May God bless you.

Respectfully Yours,

Bejar, Jade Daryl Pansacala, Kristel Dianne B.


Reseacher Researcher

Cerojales, Recem Cymon M. Yokota, Yuugi R.


Researcher Researcher

Lignes, Rusell
Researcher

Noted by:

Jennylyn M. Marcelino, MBA


Thesis Adviser
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 63

Letter for Validation of Instrument

Rizal Technological University


College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy
Brgy. Maybunga , Pasig City

September 06, 2022

Dear Mr. Ong:


Greetings!
We, the researchers, are 4th year BSBA Major in Operations
Management student at Rizal Technological University are currently
undertaking research entitled, “SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SME)
APPROACH IN FLEXIBLE MANAGEMENT DURING PANDEMIC”
With your expertise, we are humbly asking your permission to validate
the attached survey questionnaire for our study.
Thank you very much for your cooperation and for accepting our request.
May God bless you.

Respectfully Yours,

Bejar, Jade Daryl Pansacala, Kristel Dianne B.


Reseacher Researcher

Cerojales, Recem Cymon M. Yokota, Yuugi R.


Researcher Researcher

Lignes, Rusell
Researcher

Noted by:

Jennylyn M. Marcelino, MBA


Thesis Adviser
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 64

APPENDIX C
Request for Conducting Survey
Dear Sir/Madam:
Greetings!
We are 4th year students of Rizal Technological University taking up
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Operations
Management and as a requirement for our program, we are currently
undertaking a thesis entitled, "Small and Medium Enterprises (SME)
Approach in Flexible Management During Pandemic".
In line with this, we would like to humbly ask for your cooperation and
time in answering our survey questionnaire, which are relevant to the objectives
of our study. The survey would last only about less than 10 minutes of your time
to accomplish. The participation in the survey is entirely voluntary and there is
no known or anticipated risk to participation in this study. Rest assured that your
answers will be treated with utmost confidentiality and will only be used for
academic purposes.
Your approval to conduct this study will be greatly appreciated. Thank
you in advance for your interest and assistance with this research.
Respectfully Yours,

Bejar, Jade Daryl Pansacala, Kristel Dianne B.


Reseacher Researcher

Cerojales, Recem Cymon M. Yokota, Yuugi R.


Researcher Researcher

Lignes, Rusell
Researcher
Noted by:

Jennylyn M. Marcelino, MBA


Thesis Adviser
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OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 65

APPENDIX D
Letter for Respondents

Rizal Technological University


College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy
Brgy. Maybunga , Pasig City
[Date]

Dear Respondents:
We, the researchers, conducting a research study entitled, “SMALL AND
MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SME) APPROACH IN FLEXIBLE MANAGEMENT
DURING PANDEMIC ”, as a course requirement for the degree of Bachelor of
Science in Business Administration Major in Operations Management.
This complies with RA 10173, also known as the Philippine Data Privacy
Act of 2012. We are providing you with this letter to inform and secure your
consent. We shall be grateful if you could take a few minutes of your time to
answer the following questions on the survey questionnaire. Please be assured
that your responses will be treated with utmost confidentiality, and it will be used
for academic purposes only.
Respectfully Yours,

Bejar, Jade Daryl Pansacala, Kristel Dianne B.


Reseacher Researcher

Cerojales, Recem Cymon M. Yokota, Yuugi R.


Researcher Researcher

Lignes, Rusell
Researcher
Noted by:

Jennylyn M. Marcelino, MBA


Thesis Adviser
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 66

APPENDIX E
Validators Certificate
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 67


COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 68


COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 69

APPENDIX F
Request Letter for Statistician

Rizal Technological University


College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy
Brgy. Maybunga , Pasig City

September 10, 2022

Dear Ms. Shirley A. Opanda, MAED, MAT,


Good Day!
We are 4th Year, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major
in Operations Management students from Rizal Technological University- Pasig
Campus. We are currently conducting a research paper as part of our partial
fulfillment of the requirements entitled “Small and Medium Enterprises Approach
in Flexible Management during Pandemic”.
In accordance with this, we would like you to be our research statistician
May this letter merit your kind consideration and approval. Thank you and
Godless.

Respectfully Yours,

Bejar, Jade Daryl Pansacala, Kristel Dianne B.


Reseacher Researcher

Cerojales, Recem Cymon M. Yokota, Yuugi R.


Researcher Researcher

Lignes, Rusell
Researcher
Noted by:

Jennylyn M. Marcelino, MBA


Thesis Adviser
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 70

APPENDIX G

Certification of Reliability and Validity

This is to certify that this study had undergone Pilot Testing and passed the
Reliability Test and Validity test.

Thesis Title:

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Approach in Flexible Management


During Pandemic

Researchers:
Jade Daryl B. Bejar
Recem Cymon M. Cerojales
Rusell B. Lignes
Kristel Dianne B. Pansacala
Yuugi R. Yokota

Date Issued:
October 07, 2022

SHIRLEY A. OPANDA, MAED, MAT


Printed name and Signature
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 71

APPENDIX H
Certificate for Statistician

CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that appropriate statistical treatment of data was applied by
the undersigned to the thesis listed below to ensure valid and reliable results.
Thesis Title:

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Approach in Flexible Management


During Pandemic

Researchers:
Jade Daryl B. Bejar
Recem Cymon M. Cerojales
Rusell B. Lignes
Kristel Dianne B. Pansacala
Yuugi R. Yokota,

Date Issued:
October 07, 2022

SHIRLEY A. OPANDA, MAED, MAT


Printed name and Signature
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 72

APPENDIX I
Certificate for Grammarian

CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that I, Gemmarie E. Belardo, LPT had checked and
edited all through the pages of the thesis entitled “SMALL AND MEDIUM
ENTERPRISES(SMEs) APPROACH IN FLEXIBLE MANAGEMENT DURING
PANDEMIC” of Jade Daryl B. Bejar, Recem Cymon M. Cerojales, Rusell B.
th
Lignes, Kristel Dianne B. Pansacala and Yuugi R. Yokota all 4 year students
under Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Operations
Management of Rizal Technological University.

Signed this 25thday of December in the year of our Lord, 2022 at Rizal
Technological University.

Gemmarie E. Belardo, LPT


Grammarian
Licensed Number: 1365595
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 73

APPENDIX J
Request Letter for the List of SMEs in Pasig City

Rizal Technological University


College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy
Brgy. Maybunga , Pasig City

November 25, 2022


Pasig City Hall
Caruncho Ave, Barangay
San Nicolas, Pasig City
Sir/Madam:
In partial fulfillment of the requirements of BSBA Major in Operations
Management students in Thesis at Rizal Technological University - Pasig
Campus, we are conducting research entitled, “Small and Medium Enterprises
(SMEs) Approach in Flexible Management During Pandemic”
We write this letter to request for proof that we asked for a copy of the
list of SMEs in Pasig City registered in LGU. We used the list for us to identify
the businesses that can be part of our research paper and can gather
information from them through survey questionnaires.
We would greatly appreciate your consent at our request.
Thank you for your time and positive action.
Respectfully Yours,

Bejar, Jade Daryl Pansacala, Kristel Dianne B.


Reseacher Researcher

Cerojales, Recem Cymon M. Yokota, Yuugi R.


Researcher Researcher

Lignes, Rusell
Researcher
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 74

APPENDIX K
Proof of Request Approval
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

CURRICULUM VITAE
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 76

JADE DARYL B. BEJAR


Brgy. Navarro General Trias Cavite
+6301 5459 2115
2019-202561@rtu.edu.ph

OBJECTIVE: EDUCATION

To make use of the skills and abilities TERTIARY:


that I currently have, gain more
knowledge and experience that I can 2019 - Present
utilize in order to benefit the Rizal Technological University-
company. Pasig
Bachelor of Science in
PERSONAL DATA
Business Administration
Birthdate: November 23, 2000
Major in Operations Management
Age: 22 years old
Height: 5’2 SECONDARY:
Civil Status: Single
Citizenship: Filipino 2017 - 2019
Religion: Born Again APEC Schools – Pateros
Christian Senior High School
Language: Filipino & English Accountancy, Business and
Management (ABM)
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
 Communication Skills 2013-2017
 Organizational Skills Tipas National High School
 Technical Skills Junior High School
 Marketing Skills

JADE DARYL B. BEJAR


Signature Over Printed Name
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 77

RECEM CYMON M. CEROJALES


955 Kamias St. Napico Brgy. Manggahan Pasig, City
+6392 0129 2717
2019-202414@rtu.edu.ph

OBJECTIVE: EDUCATION

Make the most of my training and TERTIARY:


skills while ensuring a responsible
career opportunity that can make a 2019 - Present
significant contribution to the Rizal Technological University-
company’s success. Pasig
Bachelor of Science in
PERSONAL DATA
Business Administration
Birthdate: March 02, 2001
Major in Operations Management
Age: 21 years old
Height: 5,5 SECONDARY:
Civil Status: Single
Citizenship: Filipino 2017 - 2019
Religion: Christian San Jose Senior High School
Language: Filipino & English Senior High School
Technical- Vocational Livelihood
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
(TVL)
 Time Management
 Decision Making 2013-2017
 Communication Skills San Isidro National High School
 Good at Multitasking Junior High School

RECEM CYMON M.
CEROJALES
Signature Over Printed Name
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 78

RUSELL B. LIGNES
Block 7 Lot 9 P. Cruz Villa Bambang, Taguig City
+6391 5791 7523
2019-202244@rtu.edu.ph

OBJECTIVE: EDUCATION

Secure a responsible career TERTIARY:


opportunity that will allow me to
fully utilize my training and skills 2019 - Present
while also making a significant Rizal Technological University-
contribution to the company’s Pasig
success. Bachelor of Science in
PERSONAL DATA Business Administration
Major in Operations Management
Birthdate: April 19, 2001
Age: 21 years old SECONDARY:
Height: 5’4
Civil Status: Single 2017 - 2019
Citizenship: Filipino Arellano University – Pasig City
Religion: Roman Catholic Senior High School
Language: Filipino & English Accountancy, Business and
Management (ABM)
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
 Problem Solving 2013-2017
 Time Management Gen. Ricardo Papa Sr.
 Experienced in Using Memorial High School
Junior High School
Microsoft Word, Excel &
Powerpoint
 Transferable Skills

RUSELL B. LIGNES
Signature Over Printed Name
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 79

KRISTEL DIANNE B. PANSACALA


Blk 13 Road 26 Planters Brgy. San Andres Cainta, Rizal
+6395 1672 0530
2019-202100@rtu.edu.ph

OBJECTIVE: EDUCATION

To obtain a position where I can TERTIARY:


enhance my skills and abilities and
to have a great experience while 2019 - Present
improving my personal Rizal Technological University-
development and career growth. Pasig
Bachelor of Science in
PERSONAL DATA
Business Administration
Birthdate: June 16, 2001
Major in Operations
Age: 21 years old
Management
Height: 5’3
Civil Status: Single SECONDARY:
Citizenship: Filipino
Religion: Roman Catholic 2017 - 2019
Language: Filipino & English Apec Schools – C. Raymundo
Senior High School
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
Accountancy, Business and
 Computer Literate Management (ABM)
 Time Management Skills
 Multi-tasking Skills 2013-2017
 Communication Skills Rizal Experimental Station and
 Knowledgeable in Using MS Pilot School of Cottage Industries
Junior High School
Word, Excel & PowerPoint

KRISTEL DIANNE B. PANSACALA


Signature Over Printed Name
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND ACCOUNTANCY

OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT 80

YUUGI R. YOKOTA
Green Heights Subd. Nangka Marikina 1808
+ 6395 2601 1003
2019-202244@rtu.edu.ph

OBJECTIVE: EDUCATION

I want to be part of an organization TERTIARY:


that promotes career growth and
where I can showcase my talents 2019 - Present
and passion. Rizal Technological University-
Pasig
PERSONAL DATA
Bachelor of Science in
Birthdate: September 15, 2000
Business Administration
Age: 22 years old
Major in Operations Management
Height: 5’7
Civil Status: Single SECONDARY:
Citizenship: Filipino
Religion: Roman Catholic 2017 - 2019
Language: Filipino & English STI College –Marikina City
Senior High School
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
Accountancy, Business and
 Experienced in Using Management (ABM)
Microsoft Word, Excel &
PowerPoint 2013-2017
 Communication Skills Parang High School
 Good in Multitasking Junior High School
 Good at Convincing People

YUUGI R. YOKOTA
Signature Over Printed Name

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