Privacy Statement

Effective Date: July 1, 2019

The International Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies (IJMS), published by the Research Development and Publication Office (RDPO) of Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc., is committed to protecting the privacy and security of all users, including authors, reviewers, and readers. This Privacy Statement outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect personal data in compliance with the Philippine Data Privacy Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10173) and applicable international data protection regulations.

By registering, submitting manuscripts, or interacting with our journal, you consent to the practices described in this policy.

1. Data Collection & Use

We collect personal information for legitimate journal operations, including but not limited to:

  • User Registration: Name, email address, institutional affiliation, academic credentials, and contact details for account creation and communication.

  • Author Submissions: Manuscript details, co-author information, funding disclosures, and correspondence related to peer review and publication.

  • Reviewer & Editorial Processes: Expertise, feedback, and evaluations to facilitate the peer-review system.

  • Website Analytics: Non-personal data (e.g., IP address, browser type) to improve user experience via cookies (see Section 4).

Purpose of Data Processing:

  • Facilitate manuscript submission, peer review, and editorial workflows.

  • Communicate journal updates, announcements, and publication-related notices.

  • Maintain academic integrity, prevent fraud, and comply with legal obligations.

2. Data Sharing & Disclosure

  • Limited Access: Personal data is accessible only to authorized editorial staff, reviewers, and technical administrators.

  • Third-Party Services: We use secure platforms (e.g., OJS/PKP) for manuscript management. These providers adhere to strict confidentiality agreements.

  • Legal Compliance: Data may be disclosed if required by law or to protect the rights and safety of the journal and its users.

We do not sell, trade, or rent personal data to external parties.

3. Data Retention & Security

  • Storage: Data is stored on password-protected servers with encryption where applicable.

  • Retention: Personal information is retained only as long as necessary for journal operations or as mandated by law. Unpublished manuscripts may be anonymized or deleted upon request.

  • User Rights: You may request access, corrections, or deletion of your data by contacting [Journal Email].

4. Cookies & Tracking

IJMS uses cookies to enhance website functionality (e.g., session management, analytics). Users may disable cookies via browser settings, though this may affect site performance.

5. International Data Transfers

As an open-access journal with a global reach, submitted data may be processed outside the Philippines. We ensure all transfers comply with applicable privacy laws.

6. Policy Updates

This Privacy Statement may be revised periodically. Significant changes will be announced on the IJMS website. Continued use of the journal constitutes acceptance of updates.

Contact Information

For questions, data requests, or concerns regarding privacy practices, contact:
Research Development and Publication Office (RDPO)
Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc.
KOJC Compound, Philippines-Japan Friendship Highway, Sasa, Davao City, Philippines
Email: editors@jmc.edu.ph