International Journal of Research Studies in Management
Divine Word College of San Jose Special Issue
2025 Volume 13 Issue 8
Available Online: 12 December 2025
Author/s:
Galam, Lie Catherine C.*
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (lie.catherine.galam@gmail.com)
Galay-Limos, Jenny A.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (jennygalay05@gmail.com)
Abstract:
This study examined the key determinants influencing the hiring of 240 randomly selected Contract of Service (COS) workers in the Local Government Unit (LGU) of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. Using an exploratory-sequential design, the qualitative phase was conducted through interviews to identify the determinants and qualifications of hiring COS. In contrast, the quantitative phase was conducted through a validated researcher-made questionnaire. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis and structural equation modeling in WarpPLS version 7.0. Findings revealed that the qualifications required for COS workers focus on three significant areas: educational attainment, technical skills, and work ethics, reflecting a balance of foundational knowledge, job competency, and professional behavior. Leadership and Management Skills are identified as the primary determinants of the need for COS workers, indicating that, beyond qualifications, their ability to lead and manage tasks effectively is crucial to workplace productivity. In addition, through Structural Equation Modelling, work ethics had the most significant influence on both leadership and management skills. In contrast, technical skills had a smaller yet significant effect on management skills. However, educational attainment and worker classification showed no significant influence. A set of targeted training and development programs was recommended to strengthen the competencies of COS workers, with a focus on ethics, leadership, management, and technical capabilities. The research offers valuable insights for LGU administrators to refine recruitment strategies and align them with organizational goals. The study encouraged future researchers to explore other institutional factors and compare COS hiring practices across different LGUs for a broader understanding.
Keywords: contract of service, work ethics, hiring determinants, leadership skills, Local Government Unit
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2025.25525
Cite this article:
Galam, L. C. C., & Galay-Limos, J. A. (2025). Determinants of hiring contract of service workers in the LGU of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. International Journal of Research Studies in Management, 13(8), 119-134. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2025.25525
* Corresponding Author