Spending Behavior of DepEd Personnel on the Use of Local Credit Card: Basis for Personal Financial Plan

Spending Behavior of DepEd Personnel on the Use of Local Credit Card: Basis for Personal Financial Plan

Rizalina P. Preconcillo

Department of Education, Camarines Norte State College

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.905000401

Received: 05 May 2025; Accepted: 19 May 2025; Published: 19 June 2025

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Background of the Study

Economic growth is driven by rising card payments. According to the study performed by Zandi et al. (2013), cards help stimulate growth for economies.

Cards provide customers with convenient and secure access to their funds. Greater usage of electronic payments added $983B in global economic growth from 2008 to 2012. Whereas, electronic payment contributed 0.8 percent increase in gross domestic product in emerging countries and 0.3 percent increase in GDP in developed markets. The economy is unburdened from papers and contribution is added to GDP. As credit card consumption increases, it decreases the amount of cash circulated and ensures that economic activities are registered, and all monetary contributions are recorded in the economic system. As tax revenues increase, the growing economy also brings together new business opportunities and prevents unemployment.

Last November 2021, the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP), celebrated over four decades of its existence. CCAP provides Filipinos with better access to credit cards (The Philippine Star, 2021).  As this complements the goal of Bangko Sentral ng Philippines (BSP), transforming the country from a cash-heavy to a cash-lite economy. The BSP aims to convert 50 percent of financial transactions in the country to digital form and raise the number of Filipino adults with bank accounts to 70 percent of the population by

2023, under its Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap. BSP Media and Research – Speeches (2020) has rolled out initiatives toward providing consumers with an efficient, safe, and inclusive payment ecosystem, with the COVID-19 pandemic serving as the catalyst. From percent last 2013, the volume of financial transactions done electronically leaped to 20 percent in 2020.

According to Surtida (2021) issuers will continue to partner with the financial consumers and remain committed and aligned with the thrust of regulations, to realize a better digitized and financially inclusive Philippine economy. Moreover, mentioned on their 41^st organization virtual anniversary celebration that, issuers are keen to introduce further improvements in process and customer experience related to card issuance, including making transactions more secure.

Further, Republic Act No. 1080 also known as Philippine Credit Card Industry Regulation Law (Credit Card Law) governs all credit card issuers, acquirers, and all credit card transactions and aims to align with global best practices and promote an efficient payment system (Villaraza, et.al 2021).  All options, perks, and other promotional offers concerning the use of credit cards in the Philippines are governed by this law and also leaned upon by further discussions in this study. This law’s Section 19 protects credit card holders and users from harassment or unfair collection practices as defined by BSP rules and regulations.

The Bangko Sentral’s figures show that the entire amount of credit card debt held by the Philippine banking system is Php 157.394 billion, of which Php 15.141 are classified as non-performing These statistics are highly concerning, and numerous websites online offer advice on how to cut back on or pay off credit card debt. To recognize the genuine value and measure of a credit card, it is necessary to comprehend credit cards and how they operate (Domingo, 2023).

Cash is no longer king, consumers have embraced digital payments as a result of the pandemic (Islam, 2021). The pandemic opens consumers to an easier and more convenient way of handling cash. The world has changed dramatically and so as the consumers.  Moreover, as stated by HSBC PH (2021), banks are unable to assess how well cardholders can manage debt if they don’t have a credit history. Building up a good track record of paying off debt is possible through the help of a credit card. Staying within their limit and making at least the minimum payment each month. Applying for a mortgage on larger loans will prove it the cardholder is responsible for handling debts. Credit card holders may be harmed if they will not follow the credit card agreements.

The credit card offers reward points or miles that credit card holders can redeem for travel, gift cards, and many more. While having an easier and more comfortable way of buying, they also avail those benefits that credit card company offers. Rebates or cash back are among the popular offers of credit cards to its holders. They offer minimal charge fees and interest while having rewards rate. Rewards points earned can be used in restaurants, groceries, and even in gasoline stations. Most cash back credit cards also offer great cash back welcome bonuses to new cardholders. Spending money regularly in certain retailers, the option of using a credit card is also an advantage for enhanced rewards, discounts, and perks.

It is safer to use a credit card in paying than cash and debit cards. Carrying a huge amount of cash when purchasing somehow makes your life at stake and prone to fraud and losses. There are cases where money is missing from their debit card instantly. When a credit card is used fraudulently, notifying the credit card company of the fraudulent transactions, while the matter is under investigation, credit card holders are not forced to pay the transactions while the credit card company is still resolving the transaction.

The Department of Education’s personnel play a vital role in delivering and ensuring that each learner will receive the adequate learning they must have. From district superintendent, area supervisor, accounting, bookkeeping, teachers, and many more. All have the same goal of promoting every Filipino with complete basic education. These personnel also devote the salaries they received to their daily finances and needs. The increasing cost of living and inflation brings alarm to everyone.

As Click (2021) mentioned that APDS Task Force Resolution No. 6, s. 2021 has clarified the rationale and full implementation of the 15-30 salary release scheme in the Department of Education. The new salary scheme for the DepEd Personnel will be received every 15^th and 30^th of the month. It was approved and implemented last January 2022 to all DepEd personnel nationwide upon the recommendation of the DepEd central office. To supply their necessities while waiting for their upcoming salaries, personnel opt to apply for credit cards, where the payment method is friendly. They use this as an alternative mode of payment in groceries, department stores, and other establishments which allow them to use the credit line given to them.

In the province of Camarines Norte, particularly in the municipality of Daet, establishments and companies accept the use of credit cards. The most common credit card providers are Banco De Oro (BDO), SM Mall, SM Savers, LCC Department Store, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), and Citi Bank. They have almost the same perks and promotional offers which entice credit card holders to use their cards.

Comparing the current situation of the abovementioned DepEd teachers, it was reported that Filipino-public school teachers owe a total of Php 319 billion in debt to private and public lending financial lending institutions (Web Report, 2019). This debt behavior is attributed to a lack of financial literacy among teachers, according to the Secretary of Education, Leonor M. Briones. Dep Ed Camarines Norte is under the supervision of the DepEd Secretary of the Philippines, headed by School Division Superintendent, Crestito M. Morcilla Therefore, based on the mentioned debt above, DepEd personnel’s debt is included and part of that.

As one of the DepEd personnel, the researcher believes that conducting this study is necessary and critical. This study will help the researcher know more about spending behavior and share it with the young minds of students and other DepEd personnel, who are not yet a holder of any credit cards. The goal of this research is to measure the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel on the use of credit cards. In addition, the researcher wants to know if the profile of the respondents has something to do with their spending Behaviour, and eventually generate an output to serve as a possible intervention to assist them in enhancing their spending Behaviour.

Statement of the Problem 

Generally, this study aimed to determine the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards as a basis to improve personal financial plans.

Specifically, it sought answers to the following questions:

1. How may the profile of respondents be described in terms of:

1.1 age;
1.2 sex;
1.3 educational background;
1.4 nature of work;
1.5 average monthly income; and
1.6 number of credit cards owned?

2. What types of consumer behavior are dominantly displayed by the DepEd personnel according to:

2.1 complex buying behavior;
2.2 dissonance-reducing buying behavior;
2.3 habitual buying behavior; and
2.4 variety-seeking buying behavior?

3. Is there a significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their perceived spending behavior on the use of local credit cards?

4. What are the factors influencing DepEd personnel to use local credit cards along:

4.1 personal factors;
4.2 psychological factors; and
4.3 social factors?

5. Based on the findings of the study, what personal plan may be formulated to improve the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel?

Hypothesis 

This research was guided by the hypothesis:

There is no significant relationship between the profile of the DepEd personnel and their perceived spending behavior with the use of local credit cards. 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The respondents of the study were selected DepEd personnel who are local credit card users in Daet North and South District, Daet, Camarines Norte which include Camarines Norte National High School (CNNHS), Camarines Norte Senior High School (CNSHS), Baldovino Elementary School (BES), Moreno Integrated School (MIS), and School Division Office (SDO) of Camarines Norte.  These are permanent, regular employees and holders of any kind of credit card, (major or minor cards) provided by the local branches of BDO, BPI, Citi Bank, SM Mall, Central Plaza Mall, LCC Mall and other financial institutions that offers credit cards.

The study employed purposive sampling, which was selected according to the purpose of the study. The study is limited to local credit card holders of selected schools identified. DepEd personnel that have credit cards but are from other schools and offices are not included in the study and were not included during the data gathering procedure. Though there were several teachers, nonteaching staff, and SDO personnel who were identified, however, not all of them use credit cards. The results obtained in this study may not apply to personnel who do not use credit cards or have no plans of availing of credit cards in the future.

Significance of the Study 

 Every now and then, the economy is facing economic changes, most specifically with the prices of commodities that affect how an individual will be wise enough to spend their income. The researcher believed that the study will be of great importance to the following:

DepEd Personnel. Currently, some DepEd personnel use cashless payment not just for the ease of use it gives but as well as the benefits it provides to users. This study will help the DepEd personnel to give emphasis on their spending behavior with the use of credit cards and improve their financial capacity. In addition, they will know which of the factors influence their buying behavior.

Department of Education. Teaching and non-teaching personnel are working under the Department of Education. This research will serve as a tool on what specific financial training and seminars are needed by the personnel.

Financially literate personnel would be productive and motivated employees in the workplace.

DepEd Schools. This is composed of elementary, junior high school, and senior high teachers who formulate, implement, and coordinate policies, plans, programs, and projects in the areas of formal and non-formal basic education.  This will help them identify what specific personal financial plan that is suited to staff (teaching and non-teaching) to improve their financial standing. They may decide on the best strategies to help their employees financially.

Financial Institutions. These are establishments that facilitate the issuance of credit cards. The study will help them know the pattern of the spending behavior of their credit card users. They will serve as a basis for possible intervention and may revise their credit card policies based on the findings of the study.

Business Entities. Selected business establishments offer and accept credit cards as a mode of payment and this study will help them know how Dep Ed personnel spend with the use of their credit cards. In addition, business establishments can improve their services and be specific with how frequently these personnel use credit cards which could lead to additional income if strategies will be provided.  Moreover, this study will provide additional information and will know more about their customers.

Government Policy Makers. Government agencies that protect the right of consumers could provide punishment to violators of the law or strategize ways to improve credit services and improve payment schemes. Through this study, they may be able to formulate other policies to protect the interest of credit card holders engaging in credit card policy and to regulate healthy economic competition in the business industry. This will also give way to a more profitable and healthy relationship between credit card providers and users.

Researcher, herself. The researcher, as one of the DepEd personnel, will find significance not just in answering all queries and curiosity about how colleagues use credit cards.  She can impart to the young minds of learners whom she is teaching about financial planning and money matters. She may also be able to lead them on how they will spend their cash and will use their credit cards in the future.

Future Researchers. The result of the study may be useful to researchers who might want to conduct a study related to the topic. The study may help them acquire additional information regarding the spending behavior of credit card holders. Future researchers will be able to identify what information needs further studies.

 Notes

1. Zandi, M., Singh, V., & Irving, J. (2013). The Impact of Electronic Payments on EconomicGrowth., https://usa.visa.com/dam/VCOM/download/corporate/media/moodys-economywhite-paper-feb 2013.pdf
2. The Philippine Star (2021). CCAP at 41: Helping drive agenda toward cash-lite Philippines. Philstar. https://www.philstar.com/othersections/supplements/bottom-article-list/2021/11/03/2138685/ccap-41-helping-drive-agenda-toward-cash- lite-Philippines
3. Bangko Sentral ng Philippines Media and Research – Speeches. (2020). BangkoSentral ng Philippines Media and Research-Speeches. https://www.bsp.gov.ph/SitePages/Mediaand Research/Speeches Disp.aspx?ltemld=76
4. Surtida, M.M. S. (2021). Credit Card Issuers See Strong Growth, lower delinquen cy Rate.Credit Card Card Association of the Philippines.https://www.ccap.net.ph/credit-card-issuers-see-strong-growth-lower-deliquency-rate/
5. Villaraza, & Angangco (2021). A Brief Overview of the Philippine Credit Card Law. Lexology. https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=8d30dbea-45 28-4fax-a2c4-6627a0e63d20
6. Domingo, R. W. (2023). PH consumer debt surging, BSP data show. INQUIRER https://business.inquirer.net/389522/ph-consumer-debt-surging-bsp-data-show
7. Islam, A. (2021). CCAP at 41: Helping drive agenda toward cash-lite Philippines. Philstar Global. https://www.philstar.com/other-sections/supplements/bottomarticle-list/2021/11/03/2138685/ccap-41-helping-drive-agenda-toward-cashlite-philippines
8. HSBC PH. (2021). How Do Credit Cards Work.Credit Card Explained.https://www.hsbc.com.ph/credit-cards/how-do-credit-cards-work/?
9. Click, T. (2021). Sec. Briones approved the implementation of the twice-a-month Release of the salaries of DepEd personnel. Teachers Click.https://www.teaChersclick.com/2021/11/sec-briones-approved-implementation-of.htm
10. Web Report, G. N. (2019). Filipino teachers owe lenders $6.38 billion.Filipino Tea -chers Owe Lenders $6.38 Billion.Asia-Gulp News. https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/Filipino-teachers-oew-lenders-638-billion-1.1560688291759

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

 This chapter contains related literature and studies used as the basis of this research which discussed concepts, theories, opinions, and similar studies that were deemed necessary in conducting this research from different sources including unpublished theses, journals, articles, and other internet search engines.

 Related Literature 

 The following related literature provided insights and additional understanding in this research.

 Foreign

 Foreign pieces of literature are comprehensive articles that include the study of regional and historical circumstances. To examine the author’s personal history and views about spending behavior and credit cards, the researcher included the following foreign literature:

One of the various techniques for cashless payments that are extensively used is credit cards. Credit cards are cutting-edge financial tools that offer consumers a variety of advantages, such as the ability to make cashless payments, borrow money for a limited period, and have access to reward programs, lounges, and memberships, which makes them special (Banerji,2021). Credit cards are also a common form of payment; the widespread acceptance of cards can be determined by the large number of credit score cards in circulation globally (Surekha et al. 2021). One of the biggest trends in the consumer system is switching from using cash to using cards for shopping transactions (Doyle,2017).

Customers now prefer using debit cards over all other forms of plastic money, especially since demonetization, according to Dave and Raaj (2020). Debit cards provide several additional features, including the ability to make purchases at retail locations, use ATM withdrawals, and pay for domestic and international e-commerce transactions online. Unknown are the patterns of debit cards that customers favor and the factors that contribute to their decision to use a debit card instead of another form of payment.

Apart from debit cards, contrary to what is commonly believed, there are various credit cards offered by banks that people use at times. Most credit card users handle their cards responsibly, according to Brown (2017). Credit cards are more prevalent among older, less financially literate, and less trustworthy respondents. Even people with credit card debt are well- aware of its costs and state that the customers prefer using debit cards, and its accessibility will create high competitive pressure on other payment options. People tend to use credit cards for transaction convenience and pay little interest only. A minor subset of people uses credit cards to access expensive credit cards (Brown (2017).

In the paper of Fulford and Schuh (2017), it was posited that the amount of revolving credit available to consumers varies significantly during the business cycle, life cycle, and for individuals. Males were less likely than females to pay the entire monthly balances, and those with more income were less likely to carry balances. Credit card users with revolving debt (those who pay between the minimum payment and the full payment) are often younger than 37 years old, and according to Wang et al., (2011), student cardholders have revolving debt far more frequently than working professionals.

According to Johnson (2015), the policy process itself has become increasingly complex and nonlinear. Policy researchers’ contribution to policymakers may not have a direct, punctual, and immediate influence on single users but rather a more pervasive, interactive, deliberative effect. Policymakers need fresh, detailed, and reliable information, as well as scientific insights and interpretation, to reduce to a minimum the uncertainty in which they have to take their decisions. To measure customer satisfaction and perception, businesses conduct a customer survey, it covers elements of the customer experience, including their rating of the quality and speed of the delivery of the product or service and problems they have experienced or complaints they have.

In addition, according to the Federal Trade Commission (2011) known as the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009, to protect young consumers from prescreened credit offers, a customer must be at least 18 years old to sign a credit card contract. DeMatteo (2020) as young as 13, a customer can be an authorized user and must be 18 to sign up for their first credit card on their own. Applicants between ages 18 and 21 must show proof of verifiable income, to prevent lenders from approving young applicants for highcredit limit cards they are not well-equipped to pay back (CARD Act of 2009).

The first step for banks to know the characteristics of card users is to set out advertisement strategies or for policymakers, to implement consumer protection plans (Zhang, 2022).

Furthermore, it is asserted that society’s consumption habits are largely responsible for the environment’s sustainability. It indicates that the advertising message might have a particular psychological influence that stimulates the desire and acquire certain products/services (Wertenbroch et al. 2020). This led to an increased emphasis on the significance of responsible consumption in contemporary times (Lim et al. 2014). One of the most effective strategies for altering consumer perception is the marketing of sales, which has a big influence on consumers’ purchasing decisions (Khan et al., 2019). As part of the government and organizations that encourage financial literacy among credit cardholders, the information from this study is crucial for consumer protection on credit cards (Finke and Huston, 2014).

Consequently, there is an identified problem with the increase in credit defaults that are brought on by lax credit card policies and the lack of financial literacy among cardholders. The banking industry can formulate a more effective and efficient credit collection when determining the patterns of risky activities among cardholders (Ludum et al.,2012). As pandemic restrictions eased the nation, US consumers had an additional $2.8 trillion in savings and did not hold back. But not only the savings have been spent; credit card debt is also starting to increase. Every age group and income level had higher levels of spending. At the beginning of the pandemic, when there was not much of an option, people started shopping online in large numbers. The ease that e-commerce provides, however, appears to be appreciated by a large number of consumers (Alldredge,2021).

 Different money perceptions lead to different buying and spending habits (Rimple, 2020). A happy existence is one of the pleasurable and satisfying actions that are the outcome of having a positive mindset. Negative money attitudes lead to unnecessary spending patterns. Knowledge of money attitudes has a favorable impact on spending habits (Nga and Yeoh, 2015). Income, wealth, financial aspirations, the economy, cultural norms, and marketing are just a few of the many internal and external elements that have an impact on consumer behavior. Understanding these elements can help people make more informed decisions about their spending, enable them to reach their financial objectives, and help them make more informed decisions about their spending (Azam, 2023).

Further, understanding a variety of seeking behavior is crucial when investigating consumer choice. Understanding variety-seeking behavior focus on the product related mindset that customers adopt while shopping. Customers are more likely to seek variety if they perceive shopping to be pleasurable. The focus of current research on variety-seeking behavior has mostly been on the mindsets that consumers acquire while browsing for products (Murray et al., (2022). Consequently, a product’s success is greatly influenced by the consumer’s complex, dissonance-reducing, ingrained, and variety-seeking behavior. All marketing activities aim to persuade consumers, thus marketers study several facets of consumer behavior and the elements that affect how they make purchases (Goswami, 2022).

 Moreover, Rani, (2014) stated that numerous elements, particulars, and traits shape the person as they are, as well as the consumer’s decision-making process, shopping preferences, buying tendencies, brand loyalty, and retailer choice. A person and a consumer are guided by their culture, subculture, social class, membership group, family, personality, and psychological characteristics, and are affected by cultural trends, as well as the social and societal environment. Similarly, Fontanella (2018) mentioned that customer behavior describes how customers shop in your stores, not who shops there. A customer’s personality, upbringing, and background all have a significant impact on how they behave. Because a person’s reaction to a situation is based on perception and attitude, which can alter every day, a psychological response can be difficult to forecast but it has a big impact on customer behavior. Social trends, such as peer recommendations, societal standards, or fads, are outside influences that consumers pay attention to, while some of these factors may have a transient impact on customers, others may have a long-term one.

Local

 To further understand the study, some locally available pieces of literature by Filipino authors were reviewed.As disclosed by Briones (2015), most credit card users are married, wealthier, better educated, and own houses. Application is subject to approval and validation of requirements submitted by an applicant. All credit applications will conduct a credit investigation for verification. The results of the scrutiny on the documents submitted to avail of a credit card can be denied since credit card issuers provide requirements upon credit card application.

However, despite the processes of acquiring credit cards as mentioned above, Gomez et al. (2022) specified that due to considerations such as convenience, accessibility, promotions, and payment conditions, credit card transactions among Filipinos have consistently increased over the past few years. Despite the advantages of credit, it is still important to take into account the potential for consumer dissonance caused by pre- and post-purchase considerations as well as financial risk.

As brought up by Naval (2021), an individual’s motive always drives to seek satisfaction. Understanding customer needs, what, how, and why customers buy or not buy a product despite the effort of enticing them. Psychological variables that may have a significant impact on a person’s purchasing decision are perception, learning, attitude, personality, and lifestyle. They usually check all information about their chosen product or services. In addition, all business activities from product, planning and development, promotion, and distribution, should revolve around the customer. Understanding the customers’ needs wants, tastes, preferences, and biases needs constant study. Getting a feel of the target market’s priority needs and spending concerns will prompt producers to design products that would meet the stated customers’ concerns, hence, the chance of getting a favorable customer acceptance would be clear and promising.

Furthermore, as discussed by Mendoza and Garcia (2019), the consumers’ attitudes, behavior, desires and feedback play a significant part concerning the marketing plans and policies of any business venture. No matter what our age, status, gender, and ethnicity, we are all consumers in some way or another. Consumers are unique and have wants and needs which are diverse from one another, similar to having different consumption patterns and behaviors. In influencing consumer behavior and buying decision, perception plays an important part. It includes all of his previously held experiences, beliefs, likes, (and dislikes), feelings, and many other parameters.

As cited by Ledesma (2021), Filipino customers seek out goods and services that offer greater value for their money. Brands are less important than the quality and value that consumers receive from their purchases. Additionally, consumers can now compare products and services with those of competitors in the market quite easily because of the information that is readily available online. Consumers are looking for a provider who can provide/offer better quality in the shortest amount of time.

 In addition, Castillo (2018) declared that Filipinos are renowned for having certain qualities that are exclusive to Filipino customers looking for the goods they need and want. Asians share several traditions due to their similar views and purchasing behaviors. The ordinary Filipino consumer’s decision to buy is partially influenced by their budget. Filipino consumers are impacted by a variety of people, including friends, family, and coworkers. When picking a brand to meet their needs and desires, they frequently seek the opinions of those around them.

 In addition, Llona (2022) aforementioned that, spending behavior is the act of distributing funds to meet needs and wants in reaction to an activity, an environment, or a person. In exchange for remuneration, which may come in the form of a salary or wages, employees perform their services. Employees need to understand the importance of their financial choices. If they have the necessary money management skills, they will stand a better chance of becoming financially secure.

According to Neil (2022), Filipino families’ expenses have grown more quickly than their income in recent years. Local households have five habits that will continue to influence and shape how they will spend in the future, including food budgeting, healthcare, and coping, insurance, recreation, and cosmetic items. Local households still place a high priority on basic needs and utilities on their monthly costs.

 Similarly, Agcaoili (2021) intimated that an average five-person Filipino family spends more on food and non-food requirements each month than it makes. One of life’s fundamental necessities – food accounted for a sizeable amount of family spending in the Philippines. Housing and utility costs, including those for water, electricity, gas, and other fuels, were also included in the household budgets. The primary source of income for most households is employment. The poll also showed that nearly two out of every five homes, or 40.4 percent, have some sort of debt, whether it be in the form of unpaid household debt (17 percent), unpaid credit card debt (1.6 percent), or outstanding loans (28.2 percent). Nearly two in every five household has debt in the form of outstanding loans. Housing loans, financing for auto loans, as well as financing companies for business, and other consumer loans are among the top sources of household loans.

 Further, Florisa et al. (2021) stated that people behave differently because they each have distinctive personalities, traits, values, tastes, and attitudes that make them stand out from one another, and because of how differently they behaved; firms were able to examine how they made purchases and used services. Businesses make decisions on these kinds of things. They should sell based on how customers buy and determine what to buy, which helps them meet customer requirements and desires and increase earnings.

Additionally, Futalan et al. (2021) made known that; customers sacrifice something in exchange for something else that will satisfy their expectations, requirements, and wants. Numerous elements and people in a customer’s environment have the power to influence their purchasing decisions. This leads them in identifying a need, generating options, and choosing a specific product. Their friends, relatives, or even other customers’ comments may have an impact on their shopping selections. These elements affect the thoughts and behaviors of consumers. Consumers will make their final selections regarding the things they will purchase after analyzing and evaluating the information they acquire from the external environments and their knowledge, thoughts, and beliefs.

 Related Studies

The following related studies provided insights and additional understanding in this research.

 Foreign

After looking into the local-related literature, it is also relevant to look into the matter in the context of foreign authors/researchers. Provided below are the cited related studies from foreign settings.

According to Fulford et al. (2018) research entitled “Credit Cards and Consumption” there is a close relationship between credit and debt that provides an estimate of a model of life cycle consumption, debt, defaults, and payments. This study examined how consumer access to revolving credit changes significantly throughout an individual’s life, a company cycle, and an economic cycle. This study produces structural estimates for a life-cycle consumption model that includes preference heterogeneity and spending supported by liquid assets or unsecured credit that is subject to default. Credit cards are incorporated into the model both as a form of payment and as a source of both short- and long-term smoothing. This model forecasts a slow decline in utilization throughout a person’s lifetime and a steady increase in wealth. The study’s findings show that while people are willing to borrow money at high-interest rates, not everyone with a credit card uses it to do so. Others may give equal weight to the now and the future since they use credit cards and make payments with them.

 In addition, Gul and Iscan (2023) study entitled “Mediator Effects on Factors Affecting Credit Preference on the Effect of Consumers Personality Traits on Monthly Credit Card Usage Frequency.” looked at how the personal qualities of bank retail customers related to variables that could influence their choice of a credit card by looking at how often those credit cards were used. A correlational research model was employed in the study. To ascertain whether the result scores were distributed uniformly, the skewness and the kurtosis coefficient were computed. The study revealed that the structural equation model used to establish the circumstances may have an impact on the frequency of credit card usage substantiation. These factors impacting credit card preference are based on the personal characteristics of retail customers. According to the study, the importance of a challenging but comprehensive research environment that includes future scenarios as well as an overall scan of client psychologies comes to the fore.

Furthermore, Son (2023) study entitled “Effect of Credit Card Holders’ Age  on the Credit Limit”, discovered that while credit cardholders’ credit limits typically increase as they get older, having extreme age data (being both too old and too tiny) can result in a reduction in credit limits. The ability to pay off debt and the banks’ assessment of mortgages were determined by the study. It scientifically evaluated their credit scores and was aware of the influencing elements that affected the credit limitations. Information is supplied following the provided data and formula to assess a person’s credit limit and its link to influencing factors, including age, gender, education, marital status, and level of education. The average card utilization rate, gender, marital status (divorced), income, and card type are among the factors that have been clearly shown to have an impact on the credit limit.

According to Aydin (2021) study entitled “Psychological and Demographic Factors Influencing Responsible Credit Card Debt Payment”, optimism, intuition, and materialism all significantly affect how responsibly a person manages credit card debt. The study looked at how a person’s demographics, amount of time preference, materialism, risk-taking, optimism, and intuitiveness affect their ability to pay off credit card debt. Along with their demographic traits, perceived economic sufficiency and having children also affect credit card payment behavior. However, the influence of intuitive decision-making in the context of credit card payments was not discussed. Additionally, having a child and perceived income sufficiency both affect credit card payment behavior. The study of Obagbuwa and Kwenda (2021) study entitled “Determinants  of Students’ Spending Habits: A Case Study of Students at a Premier University of African Scholarship”, found out that financial attitude has a significant influence on student’s spending habits. The study looked into the variables that affect college students’ spending patterns. factors including financial aptitude, financial attitude, gender, age, financial help, number of years spent in college, racial groups, family history, and field of study. The knowledge of elementary financial concepts resulting in students’ financial literacy is generally low. The study also resulted to concluding that- there is no study linking the financial literacy level of university students with their spending habits.

 Moreover, the study of Jin et al. (2021) study entitled “Save for Safe: Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Consumers’ Saving and Spending Behavior in China.” looked at whether and why consumer preference for saving over spending is influenced by public health situations. More materialistic people have lower saving willingness when they perceive the risk of the pandemic.

Materialism plays a mediating effect between risk perception and individual saving willingness. It was found that spending behavior in public health emergencies can be motivated by increasing materialism and reducing risk perception. The pandemic-inclined consumer to save rather than consume. The study revealed that consumer materialism can moderate the approach when people can cope with a public health emergency.

Further, the study of Nasiri et al. (2021) entitled “Spending and Saving Behavior of Afghan Students in Mangalore City, India.” Quoted that, the main goal of the study was to ascertain how Afghan students manage their income and expenses while pursuing higher education in India. It also ascertained the causes of savings and whether there were any appreciable differences in the three categories of respondents spending habits. The study found that almost all the students had more tendency to pay less due to the comparison of prices, purchase of less expensive items, eating food indoors, and sticking to the typical fashion. Therefore, they are already practicing how to be practical in their spending.

Additionally, the researchers Surekha et al. (2021) entitled “A Study on Utilization and Convenient of Credit Card.” contrasted employee expenditure on cash and credit card charges with that of the insurance industry. The study discovered that people who connect better engage in fewer risky activities including spending up to a credit score restriction and paying bills on time. The chances of late payment are lower and there are fewer coin advances. According to their study, credit cards do not increase consumer spending; rather, they have different effects on consumer spending for revolvers and comfort customers.

Moreover, Liu and Dewitte (2021) study entitled “A Replication Study of the Credit Card Effect on Spending Behavior and Extension to Mobile Payments.” this confirmed the credit card effect and expanded it to cover mobile transactions. The research discovered that there is a difference between mobile payments and cash on the basket value measure but not in the willingness to pay. They also looked into whether the pain of payment or the convenience of payment might be a mechanism underlying the relationship between payment methods and spending behavior. The pain of payment tended to be lower and the payment convenience tended to be higher for mobile payments, but these effects did not translate into the willingness to pay.

Additionally, the study by Akela (2022) entitled “Impact of Use of Credit Card on Buying Behavior.” investigated customers’ perceptions of using credit cards, how they affect the factors that determine buying behavior, how they affect debt levels and saving behaviors, and how to use credit cards effectively. It was discovered that people who use credit cards view them as status symbols and use them carelessly for cashless transactions in the hopes that the banks that issue their cards will waive fees. Male credit card users who are married have higher motivation, are more socially influenced, exhibit addictive personalities, have better risk perception, and are found to be poor decision-makers who are less cautious when shopping. Excessive spending and poor money management are the causes of credit card debt, which affects credit card users’ saving attitudes.

As posited by Trinh et al. (2020) in their research entitled “Determinants of Consumer’s Intention to Use Credit Card: A Perspective of Multifaceted Perceived Risk”, by combining the technology acceptance model (TAM) with the theory of perceived risk, the study produced a theoretical model for consumer behavioral intention that was tested on anticipated credit card use in Vietnam. It was discovered that perceptions of risk, utility, social impact, and ease of use were important factors in determining consumers’ intentions to use credit cards. The study measured the first-order risk dimensions based on the payment function on the credit card, these measurement losses relevant to the credit function of credit cards. Only perceived risk discouraged the intended use of a credit card, which was synthesized from psychological, financial, performance privacy, time, and social risk.

Further, Tharanga (2018) study entitled “Determinants of Customers’ Attitude Towards Credit Card Usage: Special Reference to Middle-Level Employees in Sri Lanka.” The study’s main objective was to determine the factors that influence Sri Lankan paid workers’ attitudes toward using credit cards. It looked into the elements influencing consumers’ attitudes regarding using credit cards. It was revealed that the use of credit cards is not greatly impacted by social influence. It represents the views of others on how risk and expense variables may affect people’s attitudes toward restricting their credit card usage. The study found that financial literacy plays a significant role in credit card usage. As a result, banks should take financial literacy into account when granting credit cards.

Arango and Quevedo (2022) in their study entitled “Credit Constraints in Columbia: Evidence from the Use of Credit Cards among Low and MiddleIncome Individuals”, the paper used both permanent and temporary income, as well as client demographics to evaluate the factors that determine the value of semi-durable goods purchases. The researcher determined if people still have liquidity problems and how friction influences their purchasing decisions. It was found that less-restricted customers’ purchase values are more responsive to interest rates than those who are more restricted. When their credit limit is increased, limited consumers increase the value of their purchases. People who have used a large portion of their credit limit on their cards experience liquidity issues.

Moreover, the study of Lin et al. (2019) entitled “Determinants of Credit Card Spending and Debt of Chinese Consumers” stated that the main objective is to quantify Chinese consumers’ overall debt, consumption, and card-financed debt. It was found that credit consumer attitudes about money have a larger role in explaining variation in card spending and debt than sociodemographic traits and card features. Age has a negative impact on both expenditure and credit card debt, but other factors such as responsibilities to other loans and the manner of payment for everyday purchases have beneficial benefits. Card debt and spending are positively associated, though not always in the same ways.

Card debt does not always affect card expenditure, and vice versa. Card debt is unaffected by the required minimum payments, cash advances, card duration, or interest rate. Income and gender have opposing effects on credit card use and debt.

According to Khandelwal et al. (2021) research entitled “Compulsive Buying Behavior of Credit Card Users and Affecting Factors such as Financial Knowledge, Prestige and Retention: A Cross-Sectional Research.”  The study’s primary focus is on customer and vendor relationships, which is the evolving new environment of market influence deployment for credit cards. Further, the study is connected with affluent attitudes such as prestige power, financial awareness, and retention time rather than understanding credit card use and compulsive shopping. It was discovered that people with power-prestige money views are more prone to engage in compulsive spending, which gives them free access to credit cards. Results revealed that those who had a better understanding of money had less of a tendency to overspend on credit cards. This circumstance is to blame for compulsive buying, which has alarmingly increased people’s debt levels.

In the study of Banker et al. (2021) research entitled “Neutral Mechanism of Credit Card Spending,” the researcher concentrated on credit cards because they can make purchases that are challenging to defend. It was discovered to make payments less painful and so remove the brakes that keep spending in control. Using a credit card or their own money, participants made purchases that catered to their interests. Using a credit card was associated with high striatal activation that began at the same time as the card’s use and was unrelated to the cost of the item. Additionally, a neutral process that separates credit card transactions from cash purchases was discovered, and this mechanism may be related to credit card overspending.

Local

Provided are the cited related studies from local settings. Ramos et al. (2017) study entitled “Credit Cardholders in Metro Manila:

Customer Profile and Credit Card Usage” concentrated on the association between credit cardholders’ sociodemographic and employment-related factors and their credit card usage. Gender, age, marital status, and level of education are sociodemographic factors, while occupation and gross monthly income are work-related qualities. It was discovered that only gender did not have an impact on the socio-demographic factors. Age, marital status, level of education, workrelated variables (occupation, gross monthly wage), and sociodemographic characteristics (age, marital status, and level of education) were all significantly correlated with the use of credit cards.

In addition, the study by Jess (2019) entitled “Assessment of the Importance of the Credit Card Among Professors of Bestlink College of the Philippines” concentrated on figuring out and evaluating how important credit cards are to professors. They descriptively conducted their research. It was discovered that credit cards are indeed important to credit card holders. The following are considered to be important details to them; malfunction, stolen or lost, unauthorized use, errors on account statements, authorization and processing of transactions, transaction limit, fees, and interest charges. The study also discovered that credit card holders assist them in situations like installments and cash advances. It was also disclosed that convenience, speedy borrowing, balance transfers, credit score building, and access to low-cost loans are all benefits of credit. The disadvantages of credit cards include the possibility of harming one’s credit history and the possibility of bankruptcy due to improper use. The impacts of credit cards on spending patterns include a shift in spending patterns from conventional to lavish, which has put credit cards in the spotlight.

According to Lappay (2018) in the study entitled “Buying Behavior among Credit Card Holders in a Philippine University,” the study evaluated the purchasing habits of credit card owners among the staff of one of Cavite’s colleges. The study was a quantitative piece of work. The cardholders were young adults between the ages of 26 and 30. It was found that older consumers need to make more purchases. Female respondents tend to manage the household budget and money, and single people are the most frequent credit card users. The results of the study showed that more money was set aside for food and bills. An individual’s purchasing decisions are influenced by the social environment.

 Moreover, the study by Ferrer (2017) entitled: “Caught in a Debt Trap? An Analysis of the Financial Well-Being of Teachers in the Philippines looked into the phenomenon of the nation’s public school instructors being so heavily indebted. The respondents’ household circumstances and income, their view of their financial situation, and the characteristics that made them prone to high debt and usurious loans were all examined using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. It was found that have negative financial health as seen by their mounting debt problems and poor net income. These issues were exacerbated by the teachers’ spouses’ diminished capacity to provide for the family through employment, the low percentage of homeowners and high levels of housing debt, inadequate knowledge of money management and financial planning, and the prevalence of unauthorized credit use.

Additionally, the study by Tilan and Cabal (2021) study entitled “Financial Literacy of Filipino Public School Teachers and Employees: Basis for Intervention Program.” To develop an intervention program, the study investigated the financial literacy of the teachers and staff. Survey questionnaires served as the primary instruments for acquiring the necessary data in a descriptive survey research design. It was discovered that teachers and employees are literate in all aspects of financial literacy, including relating income and education; money management; planning, saving, and investing; community and financial responsibility; credit and debt management; becoming an informed consumer; and risk management. Teachers may experience a shortage of their salary if they have no other sources of income to cover their other expenses, such as housing, food, and other essentials, such as healthcare.

 Furthermore, the study of Casingal and Ancho (2022) entitled “Financial Literacy Status of Public-School Teachers: The Case of the Philippines” concentrated on comprehending the fundamentals of financial literacy and examined the financial literacy of teachers in public schools. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were combined by the researchers. The study found that public school teachers face two major concerns, current financial status, and challenges. Most public school teachers are struggling financially and are not satisfied with their current financial income. There are many problems with their financial responsibilities and have many expenses. Most of the teachers are heads and breadwinners and challenges are brought by the allocation of a family budget.

 Meanwhile, the study of Ferrer (2018) entitled “Financial Capability of Public School Teachers in the Philippines”, centered on looking into the resources available to public school teachers in the Philippines. The following three financial competence indicators were identified: money management, capacity for foresight, and financial literacy. There was a descriptive design used in the study. It was revealed that the financial capability of public school teachers is far from what is desired. Factors that contribute are deficient money management skills, low incidence of financial planning, and inadequate knowledge of basic financial concepts. An effective means to enrich the academic training of future teachers is to integrate financial education into the teacher education curriculum and in-service training of public school teachers.

 Additionally, the study “Money Attitude and Teachers’ Spending Behavior” by Marasigan et al. (2022), looked into the connection between instructors’ spending habits and their attitudes on money. They must look for alternate sources of funding when the certainty of a salary on a specific date becomes a problem to take care of their pressing financial responsibilities. It was discovered the relationship between money attitude, power prestige, distrust-frugality, retention-time (savings), and anxiety to spending behavior. Power prestige significantly influences teachers’ spending when it comes to diversity and overspending but it has no relationship to loyalty. Distrust-frugality only affects spending loyalty. Finally, all indices of teachers’ spending behavior—loyalty, diversity, and overspending—have a strong and significant relationship with worry.

 Moreover, the study of Jabar and Delayco (2021) entitled “Impulse Buying and Financial Literacy among Public Elementary and High School Teachers in the Philippines” questioned the premise that financial knowledge essentially curbs impulse buying. The study aims to analyze the association between financial literacy and impulsive purchasing while describing the level of financial literacy among public school instructors. It was found that savings accounts and debit cards are the more popular financial instruments that many teachers possess. Study results necessitate that financial literacy education needs to underscore the importance of the use of financial records and of keeping such records as they can influence individuals to be critical in making decisions concerning purchases.

 Furthermore, Joy et al. (2021) research entitled “Practices on Financial Literacy of Teachers in the School Division Office of Cabanatuan City” stressed that instructors had life insurance and were aware of the need to save money for both short- and long-term goals. They have been practicing the importance of using a monthly home budget to manage their expenses. They took out loans or borrowed money not because they wanted to, but because of unanticipated events that happened in their lives, such as medical catastrophes, family crises, natural disasters, recessions, and other unforeseen circumstances that required money.

 Similarly, the study by De Castro et al. (2020) entitled “Financial Literacy of Young Professionals in the Philippines” found that young professionals need to have the right attitude to gain financial knowledge, according to research that finds that financial attitude reconciles the influence of financial knowledge on behavior. Although gender had no bearing on any of the relationships, young working adults were assessed to have poorer financial conduct. It has a good impact on financial literacy, which in turn influences financial attitude and behavior. They advocate for the inclusion of financial education as a required course of study in all K–12 institutions. For young professionals to receive appropriate assistance and financial planning, authorities must assure their access to financial specialists and advisors. Therefore, this one non-decision does not represent a decision.

 Synthesis of the State-of-the-Art 

 In the previously given related studies, distinct parallels and contrasts were found that greatly aided the researcher in the conduct of this research undertaking.

The study conducted by Fulford and Schuh (2017) on the relationship between credit cards and debt, and the study of Sun and Yidou (2023) about the credit card holders’ age on the credit limit have similarities with the study as these concerned the usage of credit card and demographic profile of cardholders as to age, gender, education, and marital status. However, the researches mentioned differ because of the nature of work, several credit cards are included in the present study.

Similarly, the study conducted by Trinh et al. (2020) on the perceived risk associated with the use of credit cards in Vietnam and the study of Tharanga (2022) about the factors that influence workers in Sri Lanka towards the use of credit cards similarities with the present study in terms of factors that influence buying behavior as to social impact, psychological factors, and attitudes towards credit card usage. However, they differ in some aspects since, the focus of previous studies lies on the perceived risk associated and the psychological and social factors, while the current undertaking included personal factors.

Moreover, the study conducted by Surekha et al. (2021) on the utilization and convenience of credit cards and the study of Ramos et al. (2017) about the profile of cardholders in Manila and their credit card usage focused on credit card usage and demographic which are similar with the present study however, it differs on the aspect that, it was more on the impact of a credit card on sociodemographic while a researcher at present focused on credit card and spending behavior.

In addition, the study of Arango and Quevedo (2022) on the use of credit cards among low and middle-income individuals, and the study of Jess (2019) about the importance of credit cards among professors, both studies have similarities with the present study in terms of the demographic and factors influencing their purchasing decision. These studies mentioned differing because their paper focused on temporary income, while the present study focused only on the permanent income of credit card holders.

The study of Obagbuwa and Kwenda (2021) on the spending habits of students in certain universities and the study of Jin et al. (2021) about the consumer’s savings and spending behavior during the pandemic have similarities in the present study since both focused on spending behavior. However, differences were noted because only age and demographic profiles with the previous preferences of consumers were covered, while the current study focused on different profiles of respondents and types of spending behavior. associated with spending in current research.

Accordingly, the study conducted by Liu and Dewitte (2021) on the effect of a credit card on spending behavior and extension to mobile payments and the study of Akela (2020) about the impact of the credit card on buying behavior have similarities with the present study in terms of identifying the spending behavior of credit card users, however, their study focused on the impact on spending behavior while current study identified different buying behavior and its relationship to their profile.

In addition, the study of Lin et al. (2019) on the credit card spending and debt of Chinese consumers and the study of Khandewal et. (2021) about the compulsive buying behavior of credit cards users and affecting factors are similar to the current study since both focused on the spending behavior, spending behavior and socio-demographics and spending behavior and affecting factors, but they differ in the present study in terms demographics profile and factors that influence the buying behavior.

The study conducted by Aydin et al. (2021) on the psychological and demographic factors influencing responsible credit card debt payment is similar to the present study in assessing the psychological factors influencing the use of credit cards. However, it differs in the use of variables since only psychological factors were mentioned in the first study and the remaining two factors were not discussed.

 Furthermore, the study conducted by Joy et al. (2018) on the practices of financial literacy of teachers and the study conducted by Ferrer (2018) about the financial capability of teachers in the Philippines is found to be similar to the present research in identifying the spending behavior of teachers and SDO personnel, which leading to financial literacy. However, it differs because the previous did not mention the behavior and factors associated with spending.

In addition, the study by Ferrer (2017) on the financial well-being of teachers in the Philippines and the characteristics that made them prone to debt, the study of Casingal and Ancho (2021) about the financial literacy of teachers in public schools, Tilan and Canal (2021) about the financial literacy of public school teachers and staff are found similar with the present study as these focused on the improvement of the financial plan and enhancement of teachers’ financial literacy. But despite the similarities, they differ because the previous study looked at the financial institutions and fundamentals of financial literacy while the present study emphasized the behavior and factors to analyze financial literacy and come up with a proposed financial plan.

Given that the current study’s focus is on consumer behavior and the factors that influence the use of local credit cards, it is important to understand how DepEd employees spend their money in this environment. Additionally, earlier research measured a variety of spending patterns and preferences for purchases made with credit cards which yield more outputs that helped the respondents, hence, the researcher concentrated on the characteristics and behavior that the previous studies did not address.

Theoretical Framework

This study is anchored on the theory that on dissonance-reducing behavior, complex buying, habitual buying, and variety-seeking buying behavior called, Consumer theory. It was introduced by Kelvin J. Lancaster in 1966 in the Journal of Political Economy. Consumer theory is concerned with how individuals and organizations make purchases and support brands, how people choose, and how much money to spend based on their personal preferences and financial limitations. Also, how people make decisions as an area of microeconomics, and how this activity depends on their ability to spend and the cost of products and services are concepts of this theory.

Individuals have the freedom to choose between different bundles of goods and services. Consumer theory seeks to predict purchasing patterns by making the following three basic assumptions about human behavior; utility maximization, non-satiation, and decreasing marginal utility. Utility maximization is when individuals are said to make calculated decisions when shopping, purchasing products that bring them the greatest benefit. When people are seldom satisfied with one trip to the shops and always want to consume more, that is non-satiation, and decreasing marginal utility happens when consumers lose satisfaction in a product the more they consume it.

This theory is connected to the study since spending behaviors are rooted in the Consumer Theory. The arrow from theory to variables; utility maximization, non-satiation, and decreasing marginal utility represent their relationship, where Consumer Theory has three identified components. While, the arrows that connect utility maximization, non-satiation, and decreasing marginal utility to dissonance-reducing buying behavior, habitual buying behavior, complex buying behavior, and variety-seeking behavior represent that variables had components related to the specified buying behavior. Next, the arrow that connects identified buying behavior to spending behavior means that those are the different types of spending behavior. Lastly, the arrow that connects spending behavior represents the relationship to the use of local credit cards.

The theory is connected in the present study in terms of the context that; individual preferences are affected by their financial limitations which is in the form of income. Dissonance-reducing behavior happens when they seek predictions on purchasing patterns and have the freedom to choose between different bundles of goods and services, and while losing satisfaction in a product the more they consume it and look for other brands which manifest varietyseeking behavior. When consumers make calculated decisions when shopping and purchasing products that bring them the greatest benefit, that is complex buying behavior. When people are seldom satisfied with one trip to the shop and always want to consume more, which is tagged as habitual behavior.  Different spending behaviors to research study means that all spending behaviors found in the mentioned theory are present and are used as empirical support in the present study.  These practices were connected to the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards.

 As shown in Figure 1, variables of the consumer theory are presented which functions as a whole. It shows how these variables portray important roles in the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel.

Figure 1. Theoretical Paradigm of the Study

Conceptual Framework 

Figure 2 shows the conceptual framework of the study which is anchored on the IPO research paradigm as basis for determining the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards.

It is observable that the paradigm uses IPO model which represents a system in three stages; the input contains the profile of respondents (age, sex, educational background, nature of work, average monthly income and number of credit cards), description of the DepEd personnel spending behavior along; dissonance-reducing behavior, habitual buying behavior, complex buying behavior and variety-seeking behavior; significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their perceived spending behaviors on the use of local credit card and the factors influencing the personnel’s use of local credit cards. The process involved data gathering through distribution of survey questionnaires. All data were tabulated and interpreted through the use of different statistical tools. The output was based on the result of the study, the proposed personal financial plan. The variables were presented with equal importance to identify the spending behavior on the use of local credit card.

This paradigm guided the researcher in conducting this study to determine the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards.

Figure 2. Conceptual Paradigm of the Study

Definition of Terms 

To make the study more understandable and meaningful to the readers, the researcher defined the following terms conceptually and operationally.

Action Plan. This is a list of steps taken to achieve a specific goal, breaks down the goal into actionable steps that can easily followed and tracked (Hanna, 2023). In this study, the researcher proposed action plan after conducting the study. The DepEd personnel identified resources required to reach their goal and formulated a timeline for specific task to complete.

Complex Buying Behavior. When customers exhibit a high level of involvement in purchase decisions (Lausch, 2016). In this study, this refers to credit card purchases of selected DepEd personnel through their credit lines with significant risks involved.

Credit Cards. These are cards issued by credit facility, credit issuer, or provided by banks the allow customers to borrow funds within a pre-approved credit limit (Kotak, 2021). In this study, it is what the DepEd personnel applied and was approved by credit facilities with an agreement, fees and penalties.

Credit Card Issuer. This is a financial institution that provides credit cards to consumers (Luthi, 2021). In this study, card issuers manage the credit card application process of the DepEd personnel, set credit limits, benefits and fees.

Among the credit card issuers are Liberty Commercial Center (LCC), Houseware Plaza Superstore (HP), and Shoemart (SM).

DepEd Personnel. The employees of the Department who are occupying permanent positions and are included in the plantilla positions of the Department, (DepEd Order 030, s.2021). In this study, they are the DepEd personnel teaching and working in CNNHS, CNSHS, MIS, BES and SDO. They were considered because they are credit card holders and employed in.

Dissonance Buying Behavior. This type of behaviour occurs when customers are highly involving with an expensive, infrequent or risky purchase, but see little difference among brands (Fillmore, 2019). In this study, it refers to the purchase of expensive items of the DepEd personnel and seldom comparing the differences of brands they purchase.

Habitual Buying Behavior. This is a type of buying behavior of buyers/ consumers where they make repeat purchases for a number of times of a known brand without the process of high involvement and decision (QuestionPro, 2022). In this study, it identified the buying behavior of the DepEd personnel through comparison or frequent purchase of the same or alike brands.

Personal Factors.  It refers to age, occupation, lifestyle, social and economic status and the gender of the consumer (Chakraborty, 2017). In this study, it measured the knowledge, personal views, personal attachment, felt responsibility and others, on the buying behavior of the DepEd personnel.

Personal Financial Plan. It covers managing money as well as saving, and investing (Kenton, 2022). In this study, this is the proposed plan of the researcher upon conducting the study. Knowing personal finance and promoting a personal financial plan will help the DepEd personnel to safeguard their lives against surprises and this will help them pay off any debt and save for a mortgage.

Psychological Factors.  These are the elements of personality that limit or enhance the way that people think (Valenzuela, 2022). In this study, it refers to the DepEd personnel’s perception towards products and services and how their beliefs and attitude influence their buying decisions.

Social Factors. These are the consumer behaviors that include family, roles and status that have direct impact on the consumption and purchasing behavior of people (Durmaz and Gunduz, 2021).  In this study, it measured how the DepEd personnel’s family, roles and current status affect their buying decision.

Spending Behavior. This is how an individual regularly, almost automatically use their money (Cara, 2013). In this study, it includes the different spending behavior of the DepEd personnel in the use of local credit cards when purchasing.

Variety -Seeking Behavior. This refers to individuals switching among products, categories, or brands to avoid the decreasing utility due to repeat purchase or consumption of the same products (Zhang, 2022). In this study, it refers to behavior displays by the DepEd personnel in searching or trying other brands or products.

 Notes

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 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the research design, sources of data, and research instruments to be used. The discussion in this chapter also includes the formulation and validation of the research instruments, the procedure for data gathering, and the statistical tools which were utilized to interpret the data obtained in the study.

 Method of Research 

 Based on the research questions formulated, this study utilized a descriptive-correlational research design which According to Stangor and Walinga (2019), it refers to a design fit for a study made to give a quick overview of the situation right now. It is a method that is especially useful for descriptive statistics since it uses a quantitative approach to identify the research questions in light of current trends at the research location (Creswell, 2014). In this study, the descriptive approach was used as the researcher analyzed the respondents’ profiles of chosen DepEd employees, consumer behavior patterns, and the elements they took into account when using local credit cards.

Likewise, correlational processes were integrated to determine the relationship between two variables, namely; the profile of the respondents and the perceived spending behavior of Dep Ed personnel on the use of local credit cards. The main objective of this research is to understand what kind of relationship they have with one another and later provide practical ways to improve the personnel’s financial management.

Population, Sample Size, and Sampling Technique

The respondents of this study are the DepEd personnel of Daet North and South Districts comprised of one (1) elementary school, three (3) secondary schools, and SDO offices located at Daet, Camarines Norte. Baldovino Elementary School, Moreno Integrated School (MIS), Camarines Norte National High School (CNNHS), and Camarines Norte Senior High School (CNSHS) are among the selected schools. Out of 149 personnel in MIS, 25 of them are local credit card users, 43 in CNNHS with 138 personnel, 18 in Baldovino with a total of 64 teaching and non-teaching staff, two (2) in CNSHS with a total of 16 personnel and 24 in SDO with 145 personnel. Out of 512 total DepEd personnel of four selected schools and division offices, 112 have credit cards. The researcher used purposive sampling and employed all local credit card users as respondents coming from the aforementioned schools.

Description of the Respondents

 The respondents were 112 local credit card users currently working as teaching, non-teaching, and SDO workers in chosen schools in the province of Camarines Norte. They were chosen as study participants because they possessed credit cards that the researcher dealt with in this study. They are teaching and non-teaching personnel at Camarines Norte National High School,

Camarines Norte Senior High School, Baldovino Elementary School, and Moreno Integrated School. This particular group of respondents was chosen based on their familiarity and experience with using local credit cards.

Research Instrument 

The study used a survey questionnaire as the main tool in the collection of the needed data. The indicators were adopted from the information gained from different sources and were modified by the researcher with the help of the experts in the field comprised of the thesis advisory. Their suggestions were incorporated into the final survey questionnaire.

 The questionnaire was composed of three parts: Part 1 consisted of the profile of the respondents in terms of age, sex, educational attainment, nature of work, average monthly income, and types of credit cards owned. Part II covered the different types of consumer behavior in terms of complex buying behavior, dissonance buying behavior, habitual buying behavior, and variety-seeking behavior. Part III consisted of the factors considered in using credit cards such as personal factors, psychological factors, and social factors.

Data Gathering Procedure 

The researcher visited the libraries (CNSC, Provincial Capitol, Mabini Colleges, LCCD) and read books, articles, unpublished theses, and magazines related to the undertaking. The survey questionnaire and instruments used were checked and validated by panelists and the research adviser. After several revisions and the approval of panelists and advisers, the survey questionnaire was prepared for the dry run. The research asked for approval from the SDO office through SDS Crestito Morcilla, with the authority of ASDS Maria Flora Pandes, before the conduct of the study. A dry run was conducted on 20 local credit card holders in CNNHS to help improve the questionnaire by eliminating redundant questions and inconsistencies in the instrument and testing its reliability. Using Cronbach’s alpha, the reliability of the questionnaire was tested wherein it resulted in an alpha coefficient of 0.880 which indicates a good internal consistency within the items of the questionnaires. Before engaging the respondents, the research’s nature and aim were explicitly described to them given the sensitivity of the information it wished to obtain from the target respondents. The researcher provided directions on how to complete the questionnaire so that the instructions and contents could be easily understood by the respondents. She also assured them that their replies would be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Google forms and printed questionnaires were created. Results were appropriately coded, tabulated, statistically handled, and evaluated.

Statistical Treatment of Data 

 The study employed the following statistical treatment: Frequency distribution, percentage, ranking, weighted mean, Somer’s Delta Coefficient (d), and Contingency Coefficient (C). In evaluating and interpreting data, particularly that acquired through the survey, descriptive statistics like the frequency distribution and percentage ranking were used. The aforementioned statistical analysis was used to produce a useful description of the respondents’ profiles.

Additionally, the types of consumer behavior such as complex buying behavior, dissonance buying behavior, habitual buying behavior, and variety-seeking behavior, factors considered such as personal, psychological, and social applied weighted mean. This determined the percentage or degree of importance of the respondents’ assessment in terms of consumer behavior and factors considered. Lastly, Somer’s Delta Coefficient (d) and Contingency Coefficient (C) were utilized to determine the correlation of the variables under study, particularly between the profile of the DepEd personnel and their spending behavior.

 Notes

1. Stangor, C., & Walinga, J. (2019). Psychologists Use Descriptive, Correlational, and Experimental Research Designs to Understand Behavior.OpenPress.https://openpress.usask.ca/introductiontopsychology/ chapter/psychologists-use-descriptive-correlational-and-experimentalresearch-designs-to-understand-behavior/
2. Creswell, J. W. (2014). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and MixedMethodApproaches.Researchgate.https://www.researchgate.net/publicatio n/225083951_Research_Design_Qualitative_Quantitative_and_MixedMethod_Approaches

 Analysis And Interpretation Of Data

 This chapter presents the results, analyses and interpretation of data gathered on respondents of the study. The presentation and analyses are in tabular format preceded by textual interpretations of the tabulated data pertaining to the specific problems included in the study.

Profile of the Respondents

Results in Tables 1 to 6 present the profile of the respondents. The variables described include the age, sex, civil status, highest educational attainment, average monthly income and types of credit card owned.

Age. Table 1 shows the age of profile of the respondents. Highest number of respondents belong to the age bracket of 31 to 40 years old with 48 respondents or 42.9 percent, followed by age bracket   between 21 to 30 years old with 31 respondents or 27.7 percent, preceded by 41 to 50 years old with 28 respondent or 25 percent. The lowest frequency belongs to age bracket that lies between 51 to 60 years old with five respondents or 4.5 percent.

Table 1 Age Profile of the Respondents

The data above shows that the age group 31 to 40 years is the highest indicator. This implies that more DepEd local credit cards holders belong to young adulthood group. At this stage, they learned how to budget and keep home maintained, establishing a residence and managed a household.  They are full grown, responsible and mature enough. Their responsibilities as they mature led them to avail the use of credit cards.

Similarly, Lally and Valentine-French (2020) young adulthood spanned from approximately 18 years to 40 years. In addition, the study of Hutchison et al. (2016) that during young adulthood, social-emotional development intertwines with that of identity, moral, and career in dynamic ways that portend one’s future attitudes and lifestyle.

On the other hand, the lowest age group belong to 51 to 60 years, belong to middle adulthood, known as committed to family, society and future generations. This implied that few of the DepEd personnel credit card holders are in this age, because some are retiring early. In addition, since they are in middle age, nearer to old age, they are less likely to avail credit cards unlike those in the middle age.

This is supported by Group (2015), middle hood stage lasts from age above 40’s to 60’s. This is the stage which one establishes a family and career. Similarly, the study of Chopik et al. (2018) stated that age differences affect age perceptions and developmental timing estimates and yielded novel insights into how aging process affect judgements about the self and others. Age perceptions and developmental timing estimates affect judgement about self and others.

Sex. Table 2 displays the sex profile of the respondents. It can be observed that majority are female personnel with 90 respondents or 80.4 percent, while males are 22 respondents or 19.6 percent.

Table 2 Sex Profile of the Respondents

 The data above show that the highest indicator as to sex profile is female.

This implies that majority of the selected school personnel of Daet North and South district are women. Moreover, mostly applicants and hired in the DepEd are female, aside from fact that most of consumers are women. Additionally, women expressed their love for the industry and wish to work with young children. In comparison to other occupations, teaching typically has easier job security.

 This is supported by the study of Regalado (2017) that a majority of women work as teachers in the Philippines. Both in public elementary schools and high institutions. There are more female teachers than male teachers. Similarly, the study of Bongco and Abenes (2019) that teaching has been gendered, particularly in elementary schools where it is seen as women’s work. Similarly, since they feel accepted and the profession offers them tenure and employment stability, the majority of women are seen in the teaching sector

(Wang and Samba, 2019). In addition, the study of Dhal (2021) stated that more women than men select to become teachers or submit applications. There seemed to be a misconception that some women were forced to become teachers because they had no other options.

On the other hand, the lowest frequency is male. This implies that in Dep Ed, there is limited number of male employees. This means that more men find their opportunity outside DepEd. Similarly, men commonly quit the teaching profession due to gender-centric issues. There is confusion about physical contact with students and the strain of having to take on masculine roles, to uncertainty about how to develop professional relationships with co-workers (Good School Guide, 2017).

This is supported by National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) (2021) that as of 2017 to 2018, male accounted 11 percent of all the teachers. In addition, Garza (2022) stressed that men are staying away from careers in early childhood education, the preschool and primary grades, where there are many jobs opportunities. Male teachers felt that their experience as teachers was informed by uniquely gendered factors.

Educational Attainment. Table 3 shows the profile of respondents as to their highest educational attainment. Majority of the respondents with a frequency of 59 or 52.7 percent are baccalaureate degree holders, followed by 26 respondents or 23.2 percent who earned units in their respective master’s program, preceded by master’s degree holder with frequency of 11 or 9.8 percent, doctorate degree units with frequency of nine respondents or 8.0 percent, while the remaining 6.3 percent or seven respondents are doctorate degree holders.

Table 3 Profile of the Respondents in terms of Educational Attainment

The data above show that the highest number of the DepEd local credit cardholders have bachelor degrees’ education. This implies that all concerned have satisfied the agency minimum requirements. One of the qualifications to be included in registry of qualified applicants (RQA), or during application process must be a graduate of four-year course. In addition, this implied that the DepEd personnel are not yet enrolled in continuous progression.

According to the DepEd NCR (2018), pre-school, elementary, and secondary school teaching staff in both public and private schools must have the necessary educational credentials and pass the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET). Similarly, the study is supported by Gontkovicova and Dulova (2015) which emphasized that education and training belong to the most important investments in human capital. The accumulation of knowledge is therefore through education and training. This greater vulnerability of individuals facing unemployment if they hold a low human capital. The basis of employee education is to mainly increase the potential of human resources and human capital which constitutes the major part of organizations competitiveness in the labor market and personal development of employees.

On the other hand, the lowest frequency of education level is doctorate degree holder, which means that having doctorate degree in the DepEd is not a must requirement that is why few are taking it, unless a DepEd personnel is aiming for higher positions. In addition, this implies that those DepEd personnel who pursue studying the doctorate degree are not yet graduate. DepEd NEAP offers Lunduyan free course training programs for DepEd employees which can be used for promotion, that is why few are enrolling in doctorate degree programs.

This is supported by the DepEd Tambayan (2022) that Lunduyan sa Kahusayan training programs are aligned with Philippine Professional Standard for Teachers and School Heads, a free course program designed to heighten the consciousness for professional inquiry, scholarly immersion and educational innovation. This program is aligned with the Philippine professional standards for teachers and Philippine professional standards for school heads. Training can earn DepEd personnel of education units.

Nature of Work. Table 4 shows the profile of respondents as to their nature of work or occupation. Majority of the respondents with a frequency 81 or 72.3 percent are in teaching, followed by SDO personnel with 24 respondents or 21.4 percent, while the remaining seven respondents or 6.3 percent are nonteaching.

Table 4 Profile of the Respondents in terms of Nature of Work

The data above shows that majority of the workforce in selected school belong to teaching personnel because this is the primary service of the agency and the nature of existence. This implies that there are numerous teachers both in pre-school, elementary and secondary in Daet, Camarines Norte. Pre-school is composed of Kinder 1 and 2, elementary (Grades 1 to 6) and secondary (Grades 7 to 12).

This is supported by Fuente (2022) that as of school year 2019 to 2020, the Department of Education (DepEd) has a total number of 836,193 teachers representing elementary (497,200), junior high school (277,393) and senior high school (61,600) which is almost 88 percent of DepEd’s human resources are teachers.

On the other hand, the lowest frequency belongs to non-teaching personnel who composed of registrar, administrative staff, accountant, school heads, head teachers, school health personnel, guidance counselors and school health personnel. The population of non-teaching is lower compared to teaching staff. In addition, there is limited plantilla given to non-teaching by the DepEd.

 This is supported by Llego (2020) that regular employees of DepEd as of April 2020 is 805,957. Out of the total population, 53, 539 are non-teaching staff or equivalent to 6.6 percent. This shows that there is limited number of nonteaching staff.

Monthly Income. Table 5 shows the profile of respondents as to their average monthly income. Majority of the respondents earned P 21,000 to 31,000 with a frequency of 68 or 60.7 percent, followed by P 31,001 to 41,000 with a frequency of 25 respondents or 22.3 percent, preceded by P 51,001 to 61,000 with nine respondents or 8.0 percent, P 41,001 to 51,000 with frequency of six respondents or 5.4 percent while the remaining frequency of four respondents or 3.6 percent belong to P 61,001 and above.

Table 5 Profile of the Respondents in terms of Monthly Income

The data above shows that majority of the DepEd personnel credit card holders earn between Php 21,000 to P30,000. This implies that most of the respondent salary is under salary grade 10 to 12, from Php 21,129 to Php 29,

165 Dep Ed personnel receiving this range of salaries are Administrative Aide II and III, Registrar, Supply Officer, School Health Personnel, Guidance Counsellors, School Health Personnel, Accountant, Teachers I and II.

This is supported by Francisco (2022), the latest salary for grade for new entry teacher I is salary grade (SG) 11 which is Php 27,000 based on 2023 salary increase tranche, teacher II is SG 12, Php 29,165. Salary entry level of non-teaching staff; administrative officer II, registrar, guidance counsellors and supply officer with entry level of SG 10 that is equivalent to Php 21,205.

On the other hand, the lowest frequency is P 61,000 and above income, which implies that the DepEd personnel fall under this bracket belong to salary grade 21 and above, which starts from P 623,997 and above. The DepEd personnel under this salary bracket hold managerial or supervisory position in schools and SDO offices.

This is supported by Click (2023) which stated that under salary standardization law of 2019, provides the modification of salary schedule for civilian personnel and authorizes the grant of additional benefits. The 2023 salary grade 21 started from P63, 997. These are master teacher IV, principal III and IV and education program supervisor.

Number of Credit Cards. Table 6 shows the profile of respondents as to their types of credit card owned. Majority of the DepEd personnel with a frequency of 67 or 59.8 percent have availed one credit cards, followed by two credit cards with a frequency of 36 or 32.1 percent, three availed credit cards with a frequency of eight or 7.1 percent, while the remaining 0.9 percent or one respondent have availed four types of credit cards.

Table 6 Profile of the Respondents in terms of Number Credit Cards

The above data shows that majority of Dep Ed personnel availed one credit card, as this is the highest indicator in terms of number of credit cards. This implies that they are loyal to their chosen credit card. In addition, they received benefits to this kind of credit cards. This also implies that the requirements of issuers to these cards are minimal as compare to the others.

It is supported by Konsko (2018) who stressed that living a one-card lifestyle means having only one debt, one credit limit, and one due date to worry about. Since exceeding your credit limit or failing to make timely payments might result in points being deducted, this makes it simple to maintain a decent credit score. They find one card that works just fine for them in most situations, and that is all they need.

On the other hand, the lowest result is out of 112 DepEd personnel; one of them has four number of credit cards owned. This implies that availing numbers of credit cards is hard and requires higher proof of income and qualifications. These DepEd personnel have other income aside from high salary received, hence can accommodate numbers of credit cards.

It is supported by Pino (2022) who mentioned that an issuer’s choice is heavily influenced by an applicant’s income since issuers tend to believe that those with higher incomes are more likely to pay off their debt in full and receive their money back. Access to credit can differ from person to person. Similarly, the study is supported by Hayhoe et al. (2023) which emphasized that three or more credit cards affects money attitude of effort, ability and the cognitive credit. Credit card holders with three or more thought more consequences of using credit.

Types of Consumer Behavior Dominantly    Displayed by the Dep Ed Personnel

 Tables 7 to 10 exhibit the application of spending behavior of the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards such as complex buying, dissonance reducing buying behavior, habitual buying behavior and variety seeking behavior.  Complex Buying Behavior. Table 7 shows the consumer behavior

dominantly displayed by Dep Ed personnel in terms of complex buying behavior. The data show that the overall weighted mean for the aspect of complex buying behavior is 3.66, interpreted as agree. The search for information regarding planned purchase before engaging into one got the highest weighted mean of

4.33 and interpreted as agree. On the contrary, treating friends’ out using credit card with a weighted mean of 3.13, purchasing expensive gifts for the family with a weighted mean 3.27 and purchasing via credit card special jewelry for oneself with a weighted mean of 3.28 were recorded with the lowest frequency and interpreted as neither agree or disagree in the buying behavior of credit card holders.

Table 7 Consumer Behavior Dominantly Displayed by the DepEd Personnel in terms of Complex Buying Behavior

 Rating Scale:

The data above show that the highest indicators are; searching for information regarding my planned purchase before engaging into one and purchasing products or paying for services through credit cards, which implies that the DepEd personnel consider usability, durability of an item/service. There is a high possibility of getting the right brand since they are highly involved in the buying decision.

This is supported by the study of Panitapu (2013) that people frequently choose things based on the ultimate benefits that these traits bring, which in turn leads to the fulfillment of ultimate values. Consumers go through the process of identifying needs, determining how to address these requirements, and deciding whether or not to buy a product.

 On the other hand, lowest rating was recorded on complex buying behavior are, treating out friends using credit card and purchasing expensive gift for family. This implies that the DepEd personnel do not use their credit cards for socialization with friends, getting the attention of peer’s trough leisure act and among others. Moreover, though DepEd personnel are family oriented, they do not use their credit cards for purchasing of expensive items, only those needed the most like necessities.

This is supported by the study of Burgess (2015), shopping with friends is bad for the bank balance. Spending excessively when out with friends and families or sticking to a budget does not have to be the case. It is simpler for them to say no to impulse buys and feel good about what they do buy because it meets their long-term goals when they know they will be able to spend money on the things that matter most.

Dissonance-Reducing Buying Behavior.  Table 8 shows the consumer behavior dominantly displayed by the DepEd personnel in terms of dissonancereducing buying behavior. An overall weighted mean of 4.37 was recorded, which was interpreted as strongly agree. Looking into quality when purchasing products or pay for services and careful in choosing which product will buy when purchase using credit cards got the highest rating with a mean of 4.6 and 4.54 respectively, which were interpreted as strongly agree. The indicator with weighted mean of 3.70 which was interpreted as agree, look more into benefits I could earn before purchasing products or services got the lowest rating.

Table 8 Consumer Behavior Dominantly Displayed by the DepEd Personnel in terms of Dissonance-Reducing Buying Behavior

 Rating Scale:

The data above shows that the indicators that got the highest rating are; looking into quality when purchase products of pay for services and careful in choosing product when purchase using credit cards implies that the DepEd personnel are careful in every item they purchase. They have the tendency to worry if they have made the wrong choice that is why they seek for further confirmation to make the right choice. They are always after their product satisfaction that is why quality is a must for them that never must be set aside. The highest indicator in table seven and eight are connected, the planned made prior to engagement leads to get the quality products they are looking for.

According to Ehsani et al. (2015), the customer’s opinion of the overall quality or superiority of the good or service in comparison to alternatives as the quality of the product. Customers satisfaction and commitment through the quality of product and quality of the after-sell service. This requires an increase amount of contact and continuous link between the customers and providers Moreover, Ling and Mansori (2018) that learn the aspects of product quality that influence consumer pleasure because higher satisfaction breeds more devoted customers. Product quality is a major determinant and that reduction in level of customer loyalty, might be due to variation in the firm’s product quality.

 While on the other hand, the lowest indicators are looking more into benefits they could earn before purchasing products or services and spending a lot of time comparing features of products implies that though personnel are careful and making sure that quality products they bought, they are not more into looking for benefits such as that of “buy one take one product”, discounts and promos on selected items because they have that fear of having regret and anxiety when purchases are not good. Because of their nature of work also, leaving offices and school for eight hours of work, they do not have the time of comparing the different features of items they bought.

According to Klotz (2022), consumers are more likely to believe that a brand that promotes discounts more often than others is of poorer quality than others in that industry, while a brand that promotes less often is perceived to be of better quality. In contrast with the lowest indicator, the study of Chiu et al. (2019) that if customers are considering a particular product, they will compare until they feel they have enough knowledge to make an informed choice. It causes consumers to invest more time and effort in gathering and evaluating information, delaying the decision to buy.

Habitual Buying Behavior. Table 9 shows the consumer behavior dominantly displayed by the DepEd personnel in terms of habitual buying behavior. An overall weighted mean of 4.09 was recorded, which interpreted as agree. Feeling safe and contented with the products of the brands, I trust and avoid trying some other that may put me and my family in danger and purchase products which are known to me and beneficial to my family, and which offer promotional value got the highest rating with a mean of 4.38 and 4.37 respectively, which are interpreted as strongly agree. The indicators, find product details and price comparison a waste of time or unproductive and having less time for brand comparison got the lowest rating of 3.50 and 3.75 respectively, interpreted as agree.

Table 9 Consumer Behavior Dominantly Displayed by Dep Ed Personnel in terms of Habitual Buying Behavior

 Rating Scale:

The data above that got the highest indicators are, feeling safe and contented with the products of the brands they trust and avoiding trying some other that may put themselves and their family in danger and purchasing products which are known to me and beneficial to my family, and offer promotional value. It implies that the DepEd personnel settled for products and services which are already known to them and to their family. Without reconsidering that there are more valuable alternatives in the market. They are more confident in making repeat purchases on the products and services they usually consumed. They have the fear of buying items that put their families in uncomfortable situation.

 It is supported by the study of Eisingerich (2021) that customers have come to admire these brands and view them as essential and indispensable to their lives. Brand trust, love, and respect don’t just give meaning to customers’ lives; they also create a safe haven where things seem right with the world, especially in turbulent times. They demonstrate this not just by buying the brand repeatedly over time but by paying a price premium to acquire it.

On the other hand, the lowest indicators are finding product details and price comparison a waste of time and less brand or unproductive and having less time for brand comparison. This implies that the DepEd personnel do not render time comparing brands and price comparison. This is means that products bought were common needs and do not require brand comparison since   they saw the similarity on their usage. Basic foods such as coffee, bread and softdrinks.

This is supported by the study of Eisingerich (2021) that consumers most frequently purchase convenience goods. They are purchased right away with little consideration of alternative possibilities. Convenience goods are often inexpensive, not distinguished from competing goods.

Variety Seeking Buying Behavior. Table 10 shows the consumer behavior dominantly displayed by the DepEd personnel in terms of variety seeking buying behavior. An overall weighted mean of 4.02 was recorded, which interpreted as agree. Assuming that change of product or service providers is my right and privilege and compare quality and prices of brands got the highest rating with a mean of 4.40 and 4.30 respectively, which are interpreted as strongly agree. The indicator with weighted mean of 3.32 was interpreted as agree, feel bored purchasing the same products or patronizing the same service providers, although credit card payments are allowed.

Table 10 Consumer Behavior Dominantly Displayed by the DepEd Personnel in terms of Variety Seeking Buying Behavior

Rating Scale:

The data above that got the highest indicators are changing of product or service providers as right and privilege and comparing quality and prices of brands, imply that the DepEd personnel are adventurous in taking another product. This resulted to awareness of their consumer right leading to wise purchase decision making or the more they are knowledgeable, the more they can use their credit cards responsibly in purchases of comparing different brands.

It is supported by the study of Lin and Sun (2021) which found out that consumers with a growth mindset are more likely to be engaged in variety seeking. As a purchasing strategy, variety seeking can be influenced by selforiented perfectionism (Fu et al. 2021). The variety seeking behavior is about how the consumers try to find the differences between brands in the same products and usually happened in low involvement level (Astuti and Santoso, 2020). In addition, the study of Makanyeza (2021) which stated that, the most important element in consumerism is awareness of consumer rights. It enables customers to choose products with knowledge.

On the other hand, get bored in purchasing the same products or patronizing the same service providers and adventurous in buying products and services are the lowest rating. This implies that the DepEd personnel do not focus on spending their credit cards on others products as this got the lowest of all. Thought they showed the variety seeker behavior, they are more confident on the same product and services. Their personality lies on loyalty to their chosen items.

This is supported by the study of Franco Lucas (2022) that 16 percent are adventurous consumer and have less knowledge, less understanding on benefits that the products will provide. This study revealed that the frequency of customers is low since most of them are wise, responsible in choosing the best products that will satisfy their needs.

Significant Relationship between the Profile of the Respondents and their Perceived Spending Behavior on the Use of Local Credit Cards

The test for significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their perceived spending behavior on the use of local credit cards was tested using the Somer’s Delta Coefficient (d) and Contingency Coefficient (C).  Profile such as age, educational attainment, monthly income and number of credit cards were tested using Somer’s Delta coefficient while sex and nature of work using Contingency Coefficient.  Table 11 shows that the relationship between the profile such as sex (C=.311, p-value=.017); educational attainment (d=.281, pvalue=.002); nature of work (d=.581, p-value= .000); monthly income (d=.268, pvalue=.006); and number of credit cards (d=.234, p-value=.014) and their perceived spending behavior on the use of local credit cards along complex buying behavior obtained weak to moderate significant relationship at 0.05 significant level except for age. This means that those profile with weak to moderate relationship may be considered predictors on the spending behavior of the respondents along complex buying. On the other hand, profile along age is not a predictor of the spending behavior in terms of complex buying of the respondents. Regardless, of age, they have the same perception on their spending behavior.

This implies that the profile of the DepEd personnel as to sex, educational attainment nature of work, income and types of card owned have impact on complex buying behavior. Regardless of respondents’ sex, both of them are highly involved with the purchases using local credit card. Moreover, educational attainment of the DepEd personnel helps them differentiate the benefits, quality, quantities that local credit cards may provide. Furthermore, nature of work, either teaching, non- teaching and SDO personnel calls for the purchases of laptop or personal computer in which they will use in their job. Number of credit cards owned signifies also that the DepEd personnel are comparing, on which cards are necessary for them to have and which are not.

 Moreover, the profile on nature of work (C= .268, p-value= .006) and monthly income (d=.296, p-value=.000) obtained weak significant relationship along dissonance-reducing buying behavior as perceived by the respondents using credit cards, while profile on age, sex, educational attainment and number of credit cards did not obtain any significant relationship.  Thus, nature of work and monthly income are the only predictors along dissonance-reducing buying behavior.  On the other hand, regardless of age, sex, educational attainment and number of credit cards of the respondents, their perception along the variable considered is not affected.

The results above imply that among the profile of respondents, only nature of work and monthly income affects the dissonance –reducing buying behavior of the DepEd personnel. Their line of work or profession enables them to distinguish between the applications of each brand, including the cost of goods and services, which will serve as the foundation for recurring business and customer feedback. They offer comprehensive product information that enables customers to learn more about the product. They distinguish marketing, packaging, and product design. This indicates that clients now have more options than ever before as a result of the modernization of the workplace. The DepEd personnel are knowledgeable and even experienced in purchasing. Furthermore, the income affects spending behavior in the sense, that the lower the income, the higher options of differentiating the price of products and services, while the higher the income, the higher of differentiating not in terms of price, but in packaging, design and others.

 This is supported by the study of Sanil (2018) that the characteristics that determine the most desirable financial conduct in spending habits are those that are related to financial literacy. In addition, the study of Tilan and Cabal (2021) discovered that teachers and employees are literate in all aspects of financial literacy, including relating income and education. Without proper knowledge and education to financial literacy, borrowing money becomes a lifestyle of every teacher in the country. Moreover, the study of Bangco et al. (2022) that the average income and average savings have little bearing on financial literacy, whereas educational attainment and marital status do. Employment provided them with additional income that allowed them to save and marital status have high level of financial understanding.

Table 11 Test for Significant Relationship between the Profile of the Respondents and their Perceived Spending Behavior on the Use of Local Credits

The spending behavior of the respondents along habitual buying obtained weak to moderate relationship long age (d=.216, p-value=.008); educational attainment (d=.322, p-value=.000); nature of work (C=.490, p-value=.000); monthly income (d=.331, p-value=.000) and number of credit cards (C=.244, pvalue=.009) at 0.05 significant level, except for sex profile. This means that the profile along age, educational attainment, nature of work, monthly income and number of credit cards can be predictors of the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel using local credit cards. Age can influence the spending behavior due to differences in financial responsibilities and life stages. Additionally, educational attainment may correlate with higher income levels and a better understanding of personal finances. The nature of work can also impact the spending behavior like individuals in higher paying positions may have greater disposable income. Lastly, the monthly income may allow individual with high income to be more likely to engage in luxury in non-essential spending, while those with low-income may prioritize basic needs. The number of credit cards being used by these personnel also affect their spending behavior, which means that more credit cards, means the higher the expenditures.  On the other hand, sex profile is not significantly related to the spending behavior of the respondents. Regardless of sex, their spending behavior is not affected whether male or female.

The study is supported by Tanakorn et al. (2013) indicated that while male and female had similar saving and spending habits, female had a more favorable attitude toward both saving and purchasing. Additionally, males showed a more favorable attitude toward spending money than females did, yet males were more concerned about becoming wealthy or having a lot of money. However, on general, gender has no impact on consumers’ spending and saving habits. Moreover, as to income related, the study is supported by Arango et al. (2022) which implies that less restricted customers’ purchase value is more responsive to interest rates rather than those who are more restricted. When income increases, their credit limit also increases, limited consumers increase the value of their purchase. People who have used a large portion of their credit limit on their cards experience liquidity issues.

 Finally, the spending behavior of the respondents along variety-seeking buying obtained weak to moderate relationship on the profile in terms of age (d=.197, p-value=0.019); educational attainment (d=.295, p-value=.001); nature of work (d=0.547, p-value=.000); monthly income (d=.394, p-value=.000); and number of credit cards (d=.276, p-value=.002) at 0.05 significant level except for the sex profile. This means that those variables with significant relationship can be predictors of their spending variables along variety-seeking behavior. Sex profile on the other hand is not. Such results imply that age group may exhibit varying levels of variety-seeking behavior. Younger individual may have the tendency to explore new products and experiences while older individual may have more stable preferences and exhibit lower level of variety-seeking behavior.  Moreover, individuals with higher level of education may have been exposed to a broader range of experiences and information, making them more open to trying new products and services. Same is true when it comes to the nature of work of the DepEd personnel. Likewise, higher income level generally provides individual with more financial flexibility to explore different options and indulge in a variety of products and experiences.

 This is supported by the study of Yoon and Kim (2018) discovered that consumers who are thought to have little economic mobility and low social standing seek for more diversity than other consumers do to make up for their lack of personal freedom of choice. Moreover, Zhang (2022) Individual demographics, such as gender and age, have been demonstrated to influence consumers’ preferences for diversity. The researcher concentrated on gender differences and the feminine menstrual cycle for the effect of gender. Faraji-Rad et al. (2013) found that women are more sensitive to rewards throughout the fertile period of the menstrual cycle, which increases their desire for variety in rewards as we get closer to ovulation. Similarly, Durante and Arsena (2015) demonstrated that women choose more distinctive selections from consumer goods, especially for those in committed partnerships, setting a high fertility. Women select a greater number of unique options from consumer products sets at high fertility, thus desire for variety is driven by this. The study also showed that a weakened desire for variety in men diminished the desire for variety in products. The effect is strong to for women in committed relationship. This revealed that mating motives the influences for variety in consumer.

In general, the hypothesis that there is no significant relationship on the profile of the respondents and their perceived spending behavior in using local credit cards is rejected.  Thus, there is a significant relationship between the variables considered.

Factors Influencing the DepEd Personnel on the Use of Local Credits Cards

Tables 12 to 14 show the factors that influenced the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards as to personal, psychological and social factors.

 Personal Factors. Table 12 presents the data with regard to the factors that influence the DepEd personnel on the use of Local Credit Cards in terms of personal. An overall weighted mean score of 3.91 was recorded, which is interpreted as agree. Present economic condition allows to purchase needs, age limits purchases to those which conform with personal needs, and occupation calls for purchase of materials, gadget and clothing got the highest rating with a weighted mean of 4.28, 4.25 and 4.21, respectively, which are interpreted as strongly agree. The indicators with a weighted mean of 3.55 and 3.51. respectively got the lowest rating, which was interpreted as agree are the credit card purchases for purchases for products and brand choose, uplift social status and personality determined through things acquire and services enjoyed.

Table 12 Personal Factors that Influence Dep Ed Personnel on the Use of  Local Credit Cards

  Rating Scale:

The data above show that indicators, present economic condition allows to purchase need and age limits purchases to those who conform with personal needs, got the highest rating, implies that the DepEd employees’ purchasing decisions are influenced by personal traits such as personality, self-concept, lifestyle, and values. An individual’s line of work has a big impact on their purchasing behavior. The items and brands that a person chooses for oneself are directly influenced by the type of work they do. Dep Ed staff searched for brands that matched their job title, the clothes they wore, the gadgets they needed at work, and the supplies they needed to do their jobs.  The shopping habits of employees are influenced by their age; they are more interested in purchasing goods that would suit their age. They are more eager to spend money on items that will help their family and themselves. Their propensity to purchase products that are essential to their life, like as food and other basic necessities, is closely correlated with their monthly income.

 This is supported by the study of Chen et al. (2022) that the primary focus of household expenditures in the Philippines switches from food as income rises to other areas including housing, healthcare, and even tourism. This embodies their fundamental belief that as soon as they can earn more money, they will spend more to raise their level of living. They will decide to pay more for their accommodation, medical care, and travel, spend more money at restaurants and hotels, and buy more meat for their meals. Similarly, it is supported by Hermes and Reidl (2021) that Individual aspects, such as a customer’s personality, might, nevertheless, impact how a channel is viewed and, consequently, change the customer’s behavior. Retailers must therefore have a deeper understanding of personality-related influences and how these may impact a customer’s choice of purchase channel.

 On the other hand, the lowest indicators are credit card purchases uplift their social status and personality is determined through the things acquire and services they enjoy, imply that the DepEd personnel social status is not merely important to them. They do not use their credit cards to buy or wear branded items, and they are not at all brand-conscious in order to retain their social standing and reputation. It also shows that personality of the DepEd personnel cannot be determined with the products and services they acquired. Further, while using their credit cards, their characteristics are not represented.

This is supported by the study of Adedeji (2022) that age, way of life, profession, personality, and values are all personal aspects. The traits of a person’s personality are self-assurance, assertiveness, friendliness, defensiveness, and adaptability. The kind of merchandise a person would purchase depends on their personality attributes. Any customer’s purchase decision is affected by these factors at any time. Customers make purchase decisions based on available options that best match their needs. At each of life stages, there is a change in the preference and priorities. The four most significant variables that influence customer purchasing decisions are personal, economic, psychological, and social variables.

Psychological Factors. Table 13 presents the data with regard to factors that influence the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards in terms of psychological. An overall weighted mean of 3.80 was recorded, which is interpreted as agree. Using credit card to satisfy needs and entitled to make purchases which motivate as a person got the highest rating with a weighted mean of 4.19 and 4.13, respectively, which are interpreted as agree. The indicator with a weighted mean of 3.39 which was interpreted as neither agree or disagree was feeling better person through credit card purchases got the lowest rating.

Table 13 Psychological Factors that Influence the DepEd Personnel on the Use of  Local Credit Cards

Rating Scale:

The highest indicators above are using credit card to satisfy needs and entitled to make purchases to motivate as a person, implies how psychological factors affect the DepEd employees’ purchasing decisions. They utilize their credit cards to meet their wants, which are in line with their internal needs. This is confirmed by the study of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, which included basic needs as a stage of every individual’s motivation. Their attitude was centered on making a buying decision about a product that solved their needs. This provides for all basic requirements for human survival.

 The result mentioned above is supported by the study of Rebecca (2018) which stated that groups of potential clients can be formed based on the psychologically impacted decision-making processes they use. Moreover, the study of Acemogullari (2020) that consumer behavior is influenced by psychological factors, and happy consumers enjoy their purchasing.

 On the other hand, the lowest indicators are feeling better person through credit card purchases and feeling awfully good when making purchases of branded products or services, implies that having credit card does not change the personality and attitude of one person. The same with the DepEd feeling and emotion. Having branded products and acquiring expensive services won’t change the mood and their behavior.

 In contrast, according to Holland (2015) that spending a lot is a feeling of being in control. Shoppers who opted not to make a purchase, essentially making a passive choice, did not experience a reduction of feeling sadness or anger. Consumers typically shop when feeling sad.

Social Factors. Table 14 presents the data with regard to factors that influence the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards in terms of social. An overall weighted mean score of 3.34 was recorded, which interpreted as agree. The indicator that got the highest rating was purchase products and services, via credit card, that will satisfy family’s needs with a weighted mean of

4.34, which interpreted as strongly agree. On the other hand, the indicator that got the lowest rating of 2.97 and 2.95, respectively were appreciated by friends when use credit card purchases, feel that people around look up because credit card purchases are socially favorable and feel that social image brought about credit card purchases is important to oneself.

Table 14        Social Factors that Influence the DepEd Personnel on the Use of  Local Credit Cards

Rating Scale:

The data above imply that the highest indicators are purchasing products and services via credit card that will satisfy family needs and using credit card for products and services that enable to project the role in the family or in work. This revealed that social factors influenced the DepEd personnel’s buying behavior in terms of using their local credit card. It implies that the DepEd staff decisions are significantly influenced by their families. They frequently buy furniture, home goods, and other necessities for the family. Most of the decisions made by married DepEd employees or those who start families right away include the entire family, especially when utilizing credit cards. They even take care of things needed to their work offices, like school supplies.

 It is supported by the study of Durmaz and Gunduz (2021) that family, roles, and status are the key social elements influencing consumer behavior. Social variables directly affect how people behave in terms of consumption and shopping. In addition, the study of Qazzafi (2020) groups, social networks, and a person’s family fall under the heading of social variables influencing purchasing behavior.

 While on the other hand, the lowest indicators are appreciated by friend when using credit card purchases and felt that people look up because credit card is socially favorable, implies that the DepEd personnel use their credit card just a tool where they can have used especially in the absence of cash, and emergencies. Moreover, this revealed that the DepEd personnel are not into telling friends and others that they have credit cards, as much as possible, they keep that on their own. This also shows that they wanted to keep their finances details privately.

This is supported by Ritchie (2015) which posited that, to be financially literate is to know how to manage their money. This means learning how to pay their bills, how to borrow and save money responsibly. Managing their own spending requires a fundamental understanding of personal credit and a willingness to embrace personal responsibility. To have a good level of financial literacy, individuals need to have a smart financial behavior to make them have the skills and confidence to identify financial products and services.

Proposed Action Plan to Improve the Spending Behaviour of DepEd Personnel

The design of the action plan is based on the captured responses of the DepEd personnel spending behavior on the use of local credit cards. This provides an important input to help them become a financial literate individual.

 Action Plan for Dep Ed Personnel. Table 15 contains issues and concern based on the findings of the research, objectives, strategies and action taken, organization involve to help attain the objectives, resources needed, time frame, and the expected outcome. Issues and concern on the table are based on the weak or lowest indicator on all spending behavior. Strategies and action written are ways to address the issues and concern identified. The goal setting concept is important because this will identify the needed strategies to come up with the outcome. Resources needed are tangible or intangible. There is no specific date as to the completeness of the activities, it depends on DepEd personnel on when they started and finished the activities and lastly, expected result is important to identify if the objectives are met.

Table 15 Proposed Personal Financial Action Plan for Dep Ed Personnel

The table above shows the proposed personal financial action plan of DepEd personnel to use their credit card responsibly. A personal financial action plan is recommended as the study’s output in order to improve the financial literacy practices of the DepEd personnel regarding the use of local credit cards. The action plan is composed of objectives, strategies, activities, person responsible, resources needed, time frame and measure of success. The result of their action plan will be their basis on using the financial plan tool. Some of strategies and activities are starting forming a plan like lowering expenses, opening a savings account, or developing an investing strategy. They can track their progress toward reaching their financial goals or make adjustments to their spending. Through this, a more precise picture of their current financial situation will be provided, enabling them to make financial plans for their daily lives. To determine what and where they typically spend their money on, they will examine their spending patterns (including the use of local credit cards). They can identify which expenses are less necessary and can be minimize to maintain savings at the end of every period.

 According to Walker (2020) personal financial planning encourages future savings and preparation for unforeseen events while pursuing both little and large goals. In addition, the study of Krishna et al.  (2019) that a person’s level of financial happiness is primarily defended by the achievement of their financial objectives through the use of concepts from financial planning (best practices) or financial literacy (measured using financial knowledge).

 Moreover, as stated in Ng Katarungan (2018) that section 48 of Republic Act No. 10964, often known as the General 2018 Appropriations Act, an employee’s monthly take-home pay from January 2018 must be less than 5,000 pesos. the repayment of loans provided by the mentioned organizations or by outside of the DOJ, financing and loan associations may be permitted under the salary deductible option subject to a documented management agreement to safeguard for the staff (via the administrative and financial services) the best conditions attainable for the defense of their rights and advancing their area of interest.

 Notes

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SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter presents the summary, formulated findings, and conclusions of the study. It also presents the recommendations proposed by the researcher based on findings.

Summary

 This study was conducted to determine and assess the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards. It answered the following questions: 1) How may the profile of respondents be described in terms of: age, sex, educational background, nature of work, average monthly income and number of credit card owned?; 2) What types of consumer behavior are dominantly displayed by the DepEd personnel according to: complex buying behavior, dissonance-reducing buying behavior, habitual buying behavior and variety seeking behavior?;3) Is there a significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their perceived spending behavior on the use of local credit cards?; 4) What are the factors influencing the DepEd personnel to use local credit cards along: personal factors, psychological factors and social factors?; and  5) Based on the findings of the study, what personal financial plan may be formulated to improve the spending behavior of these personnel?  The study is based on the premise that there is no significant relationship between the profile of the DepEd personnel and their perceived spending behavior on the use of local credit cards. The respondents were 112 selected DepEd personnel who consisted of teaching, non- teaching staff and SDO personnel from selected schools in Daet North and South Districts of Daet. Camarines Norte where working as regular employees. They were purposely selected to give reliable, credible and factual information without biases, and value judgment.

 The study used descriptive-correlational method of research A survey questionnaire served as a main tool in data gathering and percentage ranking was used in analyzing and interpreting data particularly those that were gathered through the survey. The said statistical treatment was applied to provide meaningful description of the profile of the DepEd personnel. Weighted mean was applied in determining the percentage or degree of spending behavior on the use of local credit cards, the factors that influence to use local credit cards.

Somer’s Delta Coefficient (d) and Contingency Coefficient (C) were utilized to determine the correlation aspects in this study, particularly between the profile of the DepEd personnel and their spending behavior.

 Findings

 Based from the data gathered, the findings of the study are as follows:

1) The DepEd personnel were 31 to 40 years old with 48 respondents or 42.9 percent, predominantly female or 80.4 percent, baccalaureate degree holder with frequency of 59 or 52.7 percent, are in teaching profession with frequency of 81 or 72.3 percent, have average monthly income of Php 21,000 to 31,000 with frequency of 68 or 60.7 percent and have availed one credit card with a frequency of 67 or 59.8 percent.

2)The consumer behavior dominantly displayed by the DepEd personnel in terms of complex buying behavior, habitual buying behavior and variety seeking behavior were rated as agree, while dissonance buying behavior were rated as strongly agree with an average mean of 3.66, 4.09, 4,02 and 4.37, respectively.

In terms of complex buying behavior, searching for information regarding planned purchase before engaging into one got the highest weighted mean of 4.33. On the other hand, lowest rating was recorded on the indicator which states treating friends out using credit card.

In terms of dissonance-buying behavior, looking into quality when purchase products or pay for services got the highest weighted mean of 4.6, while the lowest indicator with weighted mean of 3.70 is looking for more benefits they could earn before purchasing products or services.

In terms of habitual buying behavior, the highest indicators with a weighted mean of 4.38 and 4.37, respectively were; purchasing products which are known and beneficial to family and which offer promotional value and feeling safe and contented with the products of the brands they trust and avoid trying some that may put themselves and family in danger. However, the lowest rating was recorded with weighted mean of 3.50 on the indicator finding product details and price comparison a waste of time or unproductive.

In terms of variety seeking buying behavior, indicator which assume that change of product or service providers is their right and privilege got the highest rating with weighted mean of 4.40 while the lowest indicator which feeling bored purchasing the same products or patronizing the same service providers, although credit card payments are allowed with weighted mean of 3.32.

3)The test for significant relationship between the profile of the DepEd personnel and their perceived spending behavior on the use of local credit cards along complex buying behavior.  Age gained p –values 0.108, sex p-values 0.017, educational attainment p-values 0.002, nature of work p-values 0.000, monthly income p-values 0.006, number of credit cards p values 0.014 obtained weak to moderate significant relationship level at 0.05. Weak to moderate relationship may be considered predictors on the spending behavior along complex. On the other hand, age is not predictor of spending behavior in terms of complex buying.

Further, in terms of dissonance-reducing buying behavior, age gained p values 0.425, sex p values 0.100, educational attainment p-values 0.114, nature of work p-values 0.034, monthly income p-values 0.000, number of credit cards p values 0. 017.Profile in age, sex, educational attainment and number of credit cards did not obtain any significant relationship. Thus, nature of work and monthly income are the only predictors along dissonance-reducing buying behavior.

In addition, in terms of habitual buying behavior, age gained p-values 0.008, sex p-values 0.218, educational attainment p-values 0.000, nature of work p-values 0.000, monthly income p-values 0.000 and number of credit card pvalues 0.009. The profile along age, educational attainment, nature of work, monthly income and number of credit cards obtained weak to moderate relationship and can be predictors of the spending behavior along habitual behavior. On the other hand, sex is not significantly related to the spending behavior of the DepEd personnel.

Lastly, in terms of variety-seeking behavior, age gained p-values 0.019, sex p-values 0.751, educational attainment p-values 0.001, nature of work pvalues 0.000, monthly income p-values 0.000 and number of credit cards pvalues 0.002. Age, educational attainment, nature of work, monthly income and number of credit cards obtained significant relationship, can be predictors of spending variables along variety-seeking behavior. Sex profile is not a predictor of spending behavior.

In terms of factors that influence Dep Ed personnel on the use of local credit cards along personal, psychological at social, in personal factors, present economic condition allows to purchase respondent needs got the highest weighted mean of 4.28. While indicator which got the lowest rating was credit card purchases for product and brand choose, uplift their social status with weighted mean of 3.51. In terms of psychological factors, the highest indicator was; use credit card to satisfy needs with weighted mean of 4.19, and lowest indicator with weighted mean of 3.39 was feel better person through credit card purchases. In terms of social factors, the highest indicator which gained weighted mean of 4.34 was purchase products and services, via credit card that satisfy family’s need. On the other hand, appreciated by friend when use credit card purchases   was the lowest indicators with weighted mean of 2.95.

 A proposed action and personal financial plan were designed to improve the financial literacy and personal financial plan of the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards. The action and financial plan specifically focus on identifying, organizing, and prioritizing their financial goals. They can track to meet financial goals or make an adjustment to their spending. They can start establishing plan like cutting of expenses, opening savings account or building an investment plan.

Conclusions

 In the light of the findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn:

 1.The DepEd personnel in selected Daet North and South Districts were ages 31 to 40 years old, female, baccalaureate degree holder, in teaching profession, with an average monthly income of Php 21,000 to 30,000, and have availed one credit card.

2. The consumer behavior dominantly displayed by the DepEd personnel in terms of complex buying behavior, habitual buying behavior and variety seeking behavior were rated as agree, while dissonance buying behavior were rated as strongly agree. In terms of complex buying behavior, the highest indicator is searching for information regarding the planned purchase before engaging into one. In dissonance-buying behavior, looking into quality when purchase or pay for services got the highest result.

Moreover, in habitual buying behavior, the highest indicator is; purchasing products which is known and beneficial to family as it offers promotional value and a feeling of safety and contentment with the products of the brands they trust and avoiding trying those that may put themselves and families in danger. In variety-seeking behavior, the highest indicator is changing of product and service providers is their right.

 3.There is a significant relationship between the age, sex, nature of work, educational attainment, average monthly income and number of credit cards profile of the DepEd personnel along dissonance-reducing, complex, habitual and variety seeking buying behavior.

 4.Personal, psychological and social factors influenced the buying behavior of the DepEd personnel on the use of credit cards. Since the indicators positively recorded and interpreted a result of agree and neither agree/disagree. In personal factors, their present economic condition allows to purchase needs got the highest result.  In psychological factors, the highest indicator was using credit card to satisfy their needs. Lastly, in social factors, purchasing products and services through credit card that will satisfy their family needs was the highest indicator.

5. A proposed action and personal financial plan were designed to improve the financial literacy and personal financial plan of the DepEd personnel on the use of local credit cards.

Recommendations

After a thorough analysis of the data gathered in the study, the following are highly recommended:

1. The DepEd personnel may consider the interest rate of credit cards prior to their application. An understanding of the credit card policies as to payment, interest and others must be considered first. Most credit cards, aside from interest monthly, have an annual membership fee.
2. The Department of Education may consider the identified spending behavior of the DepEd personnel and may include financial literacy program in their yearly In-service training for public teachers, non-teaching personnel and SDO personnel for the said government agency to use financial literacy both personally and professionally. Every public school and SDO office needs to have a good financial literacy program.
3. The DepEd personnel may have an emergency fund, to save, prepare for, or invest in, relation to unexpected personal, psychological and social expenses. The emergency fund can be made in their respective designation areas with the supervision of their heads.
4. The DepEd personnel may apply the proposed action and personal financial plan. They may start creating their goals, and plan ways on how to achieve it through the application of financial plan model.
5. Since the scope of the research is only limited to the spending behavior and factors on the use of credit cards, future researchers may conduct an in-depth study of level of effectiveness and also its advantages, and the problems encountered by the credit card holders.

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APPENDIX A

Permit to Conduct Study

The Schools Division Superintendent

Division of Camarines Norte

Daet, Camarines Norte

ATTENTION:  Daet South District

 Daet, Camarines Norte

 Sir:

Greetings of Peace and Prosperity.

 In view of my course requirements in my currently enrolled program- Master in Business Administration at Camarines Norte State College (CNSC), Daet, Camarines Norte, the undersigned is writing a research as one of the requirements in the course.In this regard, May I have the honor to request from your office to conduct a survey in selected teaching, non –teaching and SDO personnel of Daet South District Schools in the Division of Camarines Norte. This is in connection with my thesis study entitled “SPENDING BEHAVIOR OF THE DEPED PERSONNEL ON THE USE OF LOCAL CREDIT CARDS: BASIS FOR IMPROVED PERSONAL FINANCIAL PLAN”.

 I am hoping that this request will merit favorable consideration and action.

 Thank you very much.

 Respectfully yours,

 (SGD) RIZALINA P. PRECONCILLO

SHS Teacher

Approved:

(SGD) CRESTITO M. MORCILLA

CESO VI

APPENDIX B

Survey Questionnaire

Dear Respondent,

The undersigned is currently conducting her MBA thesis entitled ”Spending Behavior of the DepEd Personnel on the Use of Local Credit Cards: Basis for Improved Personal Financial Plan”. In this regard, your sincere and honest answers  in this survey questionnaire is highly requested.

Thank you very much in anticipation of your voluntary participation in this survey.

Rizalina P. Preconcillo

 Researcher

A. Profile of the Respondents

Kindly check the appropriate bracket for the information you are asked for.

1. Age:            [  ]21-30                                 [  ]51-60

                                            [  ]31-40                                [  ]61 & above

                                           [  ]41-50

2. Sex:            [  ] Male                               [  ] Female
3. Highest Educational Attainment: [  ] Baccalaureate Degree Holder

                                                                 [  ] Master’s Degree with unit

      [  ] Master’s Degree Holder

                                                                  [  ] Doctorate Degree with Units

                                                                  [  ] Doctorate Degree Holder

4. Nature of Work (Occupation:              [  ]Teaching

                                                                           [  ] Non-Teaching

                                                                          [  ] SDO Personnel

5. Average Monthly Income:            [  ] Php 21,000-31,000

       [  ] Php 31,001-41,000

       [  ] Php 41,001-51,000

                                                                     [  ] Php 51,001- 61,000

                                                                      [  ] Php 61,001 & above

6. Types of Credit Card Owned: ___ Visa/Master Card

      ___Bank Credit Cards Line (BDO, BPI)

    ___ Local Cards (HP, SM,LCC, etc.)

Types of Consumer Behavior. Please rate your buying behavior in using your local credit card according to the provided indicators with respect to the Likert scale below.

  4.21 – 5.00           – Strongly Agree (SA)

Complex buying behavior.  In this study, complex buying behavior refers to big credit card purchases as allowed by the card holder’s credit line with significant risk.

Dissonance-reducing buying behavior. This type of behavior is often linked to a fear of experiencing buyer’s remorse, which is usually based on a past experience.

Habitual buying behavior. This term refers to the customer who usually purchases a specific product repeatedly many times.

 Variety-seeking behavior. This type of customers displays a search for other brands or products to try them, may be considering quality or price.   

Factors Considered for Using Local Credit Card. Please rate your reasons for using your local credit card.

4.21 – 5.00           – Strongly Agree (SA)

Personal Factor

Psychological Factors

 Social Factors

 Thank you very much for your participation!

APPENDIX C

Result for Significant Relationship and Test of Reliability

APPENDIX D

Proposed Personal Financial Plan for DepEd Personnel

CURRICULUM VITAE                                         

Contact Information  

            Name                          –           Rizalina P. Preconcillo            

            Address                      –           Purok 5, Brgy Borabod, Daet, Camarines Norte

            MobileNo. –                           09682559976

            Email                         –          rizalina.preconcillo@deped.gov.ph

Employment History

                    Teacher II

                    Senior High School

                     Feb 17, 2017-present

                      Camarines Norte National High School

                     Substitute Teacher (TLE)

                    Junior High School

                     July 2016- Jan 2017

                     San Felipe National High School

                    Front Line Assistant

                     Dec 2010- Feb 2015

                     Petnet Western Union

  Eligibility

                        LICENSURE EXAMINATION FOR TEACHERS  -2016

                                (SECONDARY)

 Education

                    Elementary                             –      Daet Elementary School

                    High School                           –   Moreno Integrated School

                   College                                   – La Consolacion College of Daet-1^st Yr

                                                                        Mabini Colleges Inc

Bachelor of Science in Commerce-Financial Management and Accounting

 Vocational                       –         Bread and Pastry Production NCII

                                                        Vineyard Technological Skills

                 Graduate Studies                   –        Master   in Business Administration Camarines Norte State College 2020-2023