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:
Orsos, Emelyn M.*
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (emelynmorsos@gmail.com)
Peditin-Bocobo, Christine Mary M.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (tinpeditin08@gmail.com)
Amarila, Pauline T.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (amarila.pauline@gmail.com)
Galay-Limos, Jenny A.
Divine Word College of San Jose, Philippines (jennygalay05@gmail.com)
Abstract:
Generation Z (Gen Z), the first digitally native cohort (born 1997–2012), is rapidly entering the global workforce and is projected to account for 40 percent of workers in less than a decade, with 65 percent already participating in the Philippine labor force. Using a descriptive correlational design and 197 Gen Z employees, this study explores the relationship between work ethics and job performance among Gen Z employees in the Local Government unit of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. The findings reveal that Gen Z employees exhibit very high levels of work ethics and job performance, with a statistically significant positive correlation identified between ethical orientation and performance, particularly in core task execution and organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs). The analysis shows that counterproductive behaviors among this group are generally low and not significantly associated with their work ethics. This suggests that a strong work ethics may contribute to improved employee performance in public-sector organizations. The results imply that while ethical standards primarily drive Generation Z employees in the locality, there are identifiable areas for improvement in managing potential negative workplace behaviors. Furthermore, fostering a work environment that nurtures these values is crucial for sustaining and improving job performance in local government settings. Therefore, the Local Government Unit may invest in regular training programs focused on ethics, professional development, and the specific skills needed to enhance job performance. These programs may be tailored to the needs and learning styles of Gen Z employees, incorporating technology and interactive elements to maximize engagement and knowledge retention.
Keywords: better management, work ethics, work performance, Generation Z, counterproductive behaviors
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2025.25529
Cite this article:
Orsos, E. M., Peditin-Bocobo, C. M. M., Amarila, P. T., & Galay-Limos, J. A. (2025). Work ethics and performance of Generation Z employees in the Local Government Unit of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. International Journal of Research Studies in Management, 13(8), 165-176. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2025.25529
* Corresponding Author