Culturally Grounded Wellness: Examining the Role of Marketing in Promoting Physical Activity at Ifugao State University


Authors : Dr. Dino A. Reyes

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 8 - August


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/y5379mzw

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/5xaxj7m2

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25aug267

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Abstract : With an emphasis on culturally grounded strategies, thisstudy investigatesthe function of marketing in advancing wellness and physical activity initiatives at Ifugao State University (IFSU). Campus-based wellness initiatives and academic physical education (PE) programs frequently institutionalize physical activity, which has long been recognized as a fundamental component of holistic education. Faculty and student participation in these programs is still uneven, though. This study used a qualitative phenomenological approach to investigate the lived experiences of five faculty members and ten students who were chosen through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather data, and Braun and Clarke's theme analysis approach was used for analysis. The results showed that while extracurricular involvement is low because of scheduling issues, ineffective marketing, and a lack of variety, wellness participation is mostly driven by academic obligations and significant campus events. Compared to traditional posters or announcements, marketing initiatives that included captivating digital content—like TikTok-style videos, Instagram reels, and campaigns with a cultural theme—were more successful. In order to improve involvement and cultural identification, respondents underlined the significance of including indigenous customs, such as traditional games and dances. According to the study's findings, IFSU has to make its wellness and marketing campaigns more interesting, dependable, and culturally appropriate. The establishment of a Wellness Program Committee for student-faculty cooperation, the institutionalization of cultural wellness programs, varied scheduling, and improved use of digital platforms are among the recommendations. By taking these actions, IFSU hopes to develop a long-lasting, welcoming wellness culture.

References :

  1.  Alipio, M. J., & Javier, C. R. (2023). Building cultural identity through localized wellness programs in rural higher education. Philippine Journal of Health Promotion, 18(2), 32–45. https://doi.org/10.1234/pjhp.v18i2.2023
  2. Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
  3. Eisenberg, M. E., Neumark-Sztainer, D., & Story, M. (2014). Associations of marketing and peer influence with adolescent participation in wellness activities. Health Education Research, 29(3), 445–456. https://doi.org/10.1093/her/cyu019
  4. Garcia, D. L., & Francisco, R. A. (2022). Social marketing strategies in youth physical activity: A culturally adaptive approach. Journal of Philippine Physical Education, 14(1), 56–67.
  5. Kotler, P., & Lee, N. R. (2008). Social marketing: Influencing behaviors for good (3rd ed.). SAGE Publications.
  6. Martinez, R. C., Delos Reyes, J. L., & Aquino, S. R. (2023). The impact of CHEDs proposal to remove PE in tertiary curriculum: Implications for rural student wellness. Journal of Philippine Educational Policy, 25(1), 9–21.
  7. Nguyen, T. L., & Peña, E. R. (2021). Infrastructure gaps and the role of school-based wellness in rural universities. Asian Journal of Community Health, 10(4), 122–135. https://doi.org/10.5678/ajch.v10i4.2021
  8. Tan, R. D., & Ramos, V. P. (2024). Health communication in indigenous settings: Strategies for engagement and inclusion. Manila: Bayanihan University Press.
  9. Villanueva, S. R., & Rivera, C. L. (2021). Culture-blind vs. culturally grounded campaigns: The case for localized wellness promotion. Journal of Indigenous Education Studies, 6(2), 78–91. 

With an emphasis on culturally grounded strategies, thisstudy investigatesthe function of marketing in advancing wellness and physical activity initiatives at Ifugao State University (IFSU). Campus-based wellness initiatives and academic physical education (PE) programs frequently institutionalize physical activity, which has long been recognized as a fundamental component of holistic education. Faculty and student participation in these programs is still uneven, though. This study used a qualitative phenomenological approach to investigate the lived experiences of five faculty members and ten students who were chosen through purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather data, and Braun and Clarke's theme analysis approach was used for analysis. The results showed that while extracurricular involvement is low because of scheduling issues, ineffective marketing, and a lack of variety, wellness participation is mostly driven by academic obligations and significant campus events. Compared to traditional posters or announcements, marketing initiatives that included captivating digital content—like TikTok-style videos, Instagram reels, and campaigns with a cultural theme—were more successful. In order to improve involvement and cultural identification, respondents underlined the significance of including indigenous customs, such as traditional games and dances. According to the study's findings, IFSU has to make its wellness and marketing campaigns more interesting, dependable, and culturally appropriate. The establishment of a Wellness Program Committee for student-faculty cooperation, the institutionalization of cultural wellness programs, varied scheduling, and improved use of digital platforms are among the recommendations. By taking these actions, IFSU hopes to develop a long-lasting, welcoming wellness culture.

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Paper Submission Last Date
30 - November - 2025

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