INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)

ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025

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The Concept on the Desired Qualities of an Executive Position in the

Philippines among Senior Cas Students

Camarao, Kurt Hendrix M., Felipe, Renato III L., SY, David Christian M.

Student, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Undergraduate School, University of La Salette, Inc –

Philippines.

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.910000286

Received: 14 October 2025; Accepted: 20 October 2025; Published: 11 November 2025

ABSTRACT

Here in the Philippines, we follow the Democratic-Republican System, wherein registered voters have the

privilege to elect government leaders, from local to national. Candidates are divided by their vision, platforms,

and character, which allows them to persuade voters' preferences. However, this does not translate into better

leadership as corruption news linger the country for ages. Evaluating is indeed important in voting. This

research paper aims to provide a phenomenological approach to the concept of the Desired Qualities of an

Executive Position in the Philippines. Effective performance measurement is crucial for local governments to

evaluate their performance and drive continuous improvement. Credentialism is the theory highlighted in this

paper, which aims to elevate the qualifications of executive candidates. Having a higher educational degree

emphasizes better opportunities for good governance. This review examines existing studies, frameworks, and

practical implementations to reveal the advantages, challenges, and best practices associated with this study. The

data obtained from 18 most relevant articles to “qualities of executive leaders”, “qualifications of candidates”,

and “local government” or “municipalities”. The researchers interviewed 25 experienced voters regarding their

personal preference for the executive position in the Philippines. All of respondents said that having at least a

college degree or much better, masteral or doctorate is an advantage for running an executive position.

Keywords: Leadership, Credentialism, Qualification, Qualities, Philippines,

INTRODUCTION

Every citizen of the Philippines is designed to observe the primordial duty and responsibility to choose and elect

the best presidential candidate to serve the general public and represent the state. (Catchuela & Santiago,

2017). Elections give the citizens a sense of nationalism and appeasement. However, the people are usually

divided, for they prefer a political candidate. Throughout the years, Filipinos have been very fickle in their

political and social beliefs, leading to electing politicians who are malfeasant, corrupt, and incapable, which

brought unending political, social, and economic turmoil. However, the politicians themselves cannot be solely

blamed for their misconduct, as the voters were the ones who placed these public officials into their respective

seats. (Tandoc – Juan, Juan & Atianzar, 2019) Leadership is a concept put into operation by individuals in their

personal and professional lives. leaders’ educational attainment positively contributes to a state’s economic

performance. Politically unstable countries tend to have leaders with low educational attainment and high

military ranks. (Xu, 2014) In order to implement this concept in an effective and worthwhile manner, individuals

need to acquire an understanding of the meaning and significance of leadership. When they understand the

meaning and how this concept will be helpful to them in carrying out their job duties well and achieving the

desired goals, they will put it into operation. The leaders aim to provide knowledge, support, and assistance to

their subordinates in carrying out their job duties in a well-ordered and regimented manner and achieving the

desired goals and objectives. Education enlightens young people at the very starting point of their life before

they enter society. It includes teaching formal knowledge such as reading, writing, and math, as well as other

things such as morals, values, and ethics. Learning these does not mean that leaders can have their world outlook

totally changed from the one formed in the past ten or twenty years in their home country. Instead, it is an

enlightening process, lightening up an approach of reform that they may have never seen or experienced. This

experience expands their visions and perspectives. (Xu, 2014) When leaders are performing their job duties

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)

ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025

or are working with other individuals, they need to inculcate the traits of morality and ethics, which lead to

goodwill and well-being. Furthermore, leaders need to be well aware of measures and approaches to cope with

changes and ensure that they prove to be efficacious and valuable to the members and the organization. It can be

stated that individuals in leadership positions need to understand this concept efficiently before they perform

their job duties. The main areas that are highlighted in this research paper are leadership and management,

functions of leadership, types of leadership, and roles of the leaders. (Kapur, 2020). Organizational leaders bring

unique qualities, competencies, and practices to their roles.

In Organizational Leadership, this is called a leadership constellation. A leadership constellation includes: 1.)

Qualities: The aspects of who you are as a person. They contribute to how others perceive you. 2.) Competencies:

The skills and knowledge you've developed over time that enable you to fulfill responsibilities—either by

yourself or by leading others. 3.) Practices: The routine actions you engage in to complete tasks, guide your team

and organization, and enhance your and others’ skills.

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

As might be expected, the findings on the relationship between education and developmental leadership in the

Philippines are shaped profoundly by the political and educational contexts. These intersect with religion,

oligarchical elites, and entrenched gaps between rich and poor to shape and reinforce a highly stratified society

and education system. The report discusses the findings in relation to the broad question of how education has

the potential to perpetuate or interrupt these development problems and cycles of inequality, through leaders’

experiences of it (Schweisfurth, Davies, Pe Symaco, Valiente, Robles., 2016) While everyone has their share in

preserving liberty, the Government plays an indispensable role. The leaders of a country have their people's faith

and hope in their capacity to help shape the nation's future. They are responsible for safeguarding the people's

liberty and nurturing their prosperity, which is clearly for the people. Discussions of political life often place the

quality of politicians at center stage. For many, deciding which candidate to vote for is simply a matter of party

affiliation. Others, however, cast their votes based on specific characteristics. As such, we ask whether people

with more formal education make better political leaders. The world is full of aspiring political leaders, but sadly

and realistically, very few live up to the leadership ideals. Many political leaders seem to severely lack some of

the most essential leadership qualities, such as integrity and accountability. (Napoles, 2022). Educated

politicians might have higher competencies and skills (Bruckmeyer, 2024).

According to the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the qualifications for an individual aspiring to become the

President of the Philippines are outlined in Article VII, Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution. According to the

Constitution, an individual may become President provided he meets the following criteria:

1. Natural born Filipino;

2. A registered voter;

3. Must be able to read and write;

4. 40 years of age at the day of the election; and

5. Must have resided in the Philippines ten years before the election is held.

According to the 1987 Philippine Constitution, Section 4. The President and the Vice-President shall be

elected by direct vote of the people for a term of six years, which shall begin at noon on the thirtieth day of June

next following the day of the election and end at noon on the same date, six years after that. The President shall

not be eligible for any re-election. No person who has succeeded as President and served for more than four

years shall be qualified for election to the same office at any time.

Educational background, academic credentials, and relevant experience are not mandatory qualifications for

becoming an executive officer in the Philippines. However, considering these aspects could positively influence

the quality of leadership, as serving as the head of the government or state entails serious and demanding

responsibilities.

With an astonishing 31,104,175 votes from the Filipino people, Bong-Bong Marcos led the presidential race,

and 31,561,948 votes for Sara Duterte–Carpio to lead the vice-presidential election. Together, they acquired an

executive position in the Philippine Government from June 2022 until June 2028.

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)

ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025

Statement Of the Problem/Research Questions

The researchers have come up with categories to determine the perceptions of CAS students towards the concept

of good political leaders in executive department. it is categorized into three (3) parts and will be used as the

basis for the creation of the research questions, and ultimately, the conclusion of this topic.

What is the concept of a desired executive leader in terms of

1.1 Highest educational background

1.2 Moral standing

1.3 Public Service

 What trait or attributes must the president or vice president have to perform their duties well?

 What qualifications should be imposed based on the qualities desired by the public?

 What desiring qualities are fitting to the executive position?

Significance Of the Study

Students. This study will teach the students to be more analytical and have standards in voting, especially in the

executive department. It will also give them ideas on the executive department's role in the Philippine

government.

Teachers. This study will drive educators to provide and give the desired Qualities of the Executive department.

Parents. This study will enlighten the parents' views and perspectives towards voting for our executives and

guide their children on whom to vote.

Registered Voters. This study will give an idea and a basis on what should be considered in electing officials

especially in the Executive Position.

Academic institutions. This study will give awareness to the academic institutions to make a lesson or

discussion on the responsibilities of the executive department, discuss the qualifications, and analyze them based

on their responsibilities.

Philippine Government. This study will provide awareness of the meager qualifications. Also, it can start

revising the qualifications of the said department.

Future Researchers. This study will be a new source of data for future researchers. The findings of this study

will lead other researchers to obtain substantial details about the source of their study.

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

Credentialism is a theory/concept proposed by states that voters are more likely to vote for candidates with

degrees. Also, it is the practice of using a person's qualifications, such as degrees or certificates, to assess their

skills, knowledge, and experience for a job or activity, which suggests that voters are more likely to choose

candidates who are college graduates.

Credentialism is the undue emphasis on credentials (such as college degrees) as prerequisites to employment

(Merriam-Webster, 2023). In the same way that we use the term racism to refer to bias based on race, sociologists

use the term credentialism to refer to bias based on credentials:

Credentialism is the assumption that some are better than others simply because they have a particular

educational credential (Drew, C. 2023). Credentialism is the practice of using a person's qualifications, such as

degrees or certificates, to assess their skills, knowledge, and experience for a job or activity. While it is often

used to determine if an individual is suitable for a specific role, it has been seen by some as a discriminatory

process. (Drew, C. 2023).

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)

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Credentialism is "An individual with a PhD is more intelligent than someone without a PhD." A degree or a

higher education background has an advantage in terms of performance and the possibility of work success since

he has the educational background to support him. In politics, particularly in America, all their presidents have

at least a college degree. A trait presents in a first-world country (America) where their highest leader has at

least a bachelor's degree.

Voters use “deal-breakers” to quickly eliminate undesirable candidates; however, the politically unsophisticated

rely on unverifiable, vague, and irrelevant search considerations. Less sophisticated voters also rely on more

personalistic considerations. (Bernhard & Freeder, 2020). That is the idea of heuristics in voting. Every voter

has their own biases that affects their decision-making during voting season. Some voters have a bias for a

candidate that holds a degree or is backed-up with credentials.

Conceptual Framework

The researchers share that public officials who want to run for office in the executive department are more likely

to be chosen by CAS Student Voters if they have credentials related to leadership and show an open readiness

to help the community and its constituents. Conversely, the researchers also share that public officials who do

not possess these qualities are most likely to be not chosen.

LITERATURE REVIEW

In a study by (Tandoc – Juan, Juan Atianzar, 2019) On political candidates' political background, particularly on

platform and advocacies, respondents "highly preferred" a political candidate who focuses his/her platform on

the educational sector and on distributing jobs and employing idle people.

(Catchuela & Santiago, 2017). This study found out that the present national requirements of the

candidates be included in the qualifications, with additional requirements such as administrative experience and

best requisite prior to holding the position of President and Vice-President. On the perception of the respondents,

most of them agreed that personal qualifications like character and integrity should be considered; likewise,

educational attainment, expertise, and administrative experience may be included in the list of qualifications.

The Respondents view personal qualifications and best requisite prior to holding the position of President and

Vice-President as essential. They may also be included in the basic requirements for the qualifications of the

highest official of the land. Educational attainment, administrative experience, and citizenship were considered

to be equally essential qualities. Based on the perception of the Respondents on having educational attainment

for the candidates to the National election, specifically on the President and Vice President, they believed that

the presidency is a position of statesmanship and leadership calling for the highest degree of political competence

and expertise in national and international affairs. As to the Basic Constitutional Requirements for the

Qualifications of Candidates for National Election, particularly for President and Vice-President, Respondents

Profile of the

respondents from

the students from

CAS department.

Desirable qualities

that students are

looking for opinions

regarding the past

candidates’

possession of

desirable qualities.

Assessment of

different CAS

students in

context of their

desired qualities

of the executive

officials in the

Philippines.

Desirable

qualities of the

executive

officials are

understood and

taken to heart.

This study aims

for voters to

practice “smart

voting”.

FEEDBACK

INPUT:

PROCESS:

OUTPUT:

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view the opinion that every candidate for President and Vice President respectively must be educated to some

extent at least, which is mandatory in the process of developing country in attaining political stability and

economic sustainability.

In the study (Napoles, 2019), The Government has a significant role in safeguarding liberty and nurturing

prosperity. Hence, it is but proper that the rulers be chosen wisely. When it comes to elections, the character of

the Philippine electorate has a considerable effect on the result of elections and the thriving capacity of the

country in the succeeding year. Hence, to aid the Filipino electorate in choosing the nation's leaders, screening

during the registration, particularly at the level of the COMELEC, must be stringent. Further, if we want global

competitiveness, we should require our leaders to be, at the very least, formally educated. This enables them to

be at par with the leaders of other countries who are equally educated, as evidenced by the quality of leaders

elected in some of the world's strongest countries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Further,

even the Foundation for Liberty and Prosperity believes Education is the key to success and fulfillment.

In a study conducted by (Muteswa, 2016), it can be concluded that leadership involves persuading and

convincing people to go the extra mile to achieve the organization's goals. The literature findings indicate that

the advantage of a leader in an organization is that they help set the direction the employees should follow to

achieve the organization's vision. In addition, leaders also help to increase business performance and productivity

by motivating the employees and setting performance objectives the employees should accomplish.

A study by (Cimene & Aladano, 2022) states that successful leaders do not have complicated perspectives on

leadership. They categorize it as an art, ability, and process. It is an art because one leads people with unique

personalities to perform organizational tasks. It is an ability since one face various challenge from different

sources. It is a process because one never stops learning. As long as people continue to grow and society

continues to change, it is inevitable that leaders will evolve with the organization and the society where they

belong. In understanding leadership, more than describing its underlying concepts and principles is

required. Due to the changing dynamics of organizations, one has to analyze in depth the interactions of these

concepts and principles to show how and why they interact as they do. Despite studies conducted about

leadership, researchers still need to catch up on the following questions. What are all of these leadership theories

and research good for? How do we go about leading, particularly in exercising influence that can be used to

enhance organizational performance? These have surfaced in the context of some leaders identified and awarded

in their fields. Nevertheless, society, in general, is still waiting for genuine leaders who will make a difference

and bring the country to a state of progress and development that every Filipino aspires to and deserves.

A study by (Palencia, 2022) avers that in any human organization, the most fundamental resource is the people,

and the most important factor that determines the fate of the organization is leadership. A good leader leads the

organization in developing relevant, exciting and viable institutional programs, succeeds in securing the required

resources, organizes the institution well, and inspires the staff to implement the plan. The leadership styles of

leaders in an organization then define the organizational culture.

Research Design

The design used in this Qualitative Research about the Desired Qualities of an Executive Position in the

Philippines is descriptive phenomenological Research. Descriptive Research aims to accurately and

systematically describe a population, situation, or phenomenon. Phenomenological Research is a qualitative

research approach that seeks to understand and describe the universal essence of a phenomenon. In this Research,

the researchers identified the chosen population's stand or description of what a candidate running for an

executive position in the Philippines (President and Vice-President) should possess to be qualified as a great and

competent leader. With the design being a descriptive phenomenological type of Research, the researchers

achieved precise data on the subject used in this study.

Study Setting and Participants

The Researchers conducted this study inside the premises of the University of La Salette inc. located in Arranz

Street, Dubinan East, Santiago City, specifically in the College of Arts and Sciences. The College of Arts and

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Sciences Department consists of Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Bachelor of Science in Psychology,

Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, and Bachelor of Science in Social Work.

population sampling size and sampling method

The Senior Students of the College of Arts and Sciences has a total population of students. BA Political Science

has 14, BS Social Work has 15, AB Philosophy has 3, BS Psychology has 16 students, and BA Journalism has

none. This study has 20 - 50 participants selected randomly among senior students at the College of Arts and

Sciences.

Research Instrument

The research instrument utilized in this study is an interview guide in which follow-up questions will come up

after the interviewee answers until we get the desired answer. To College of Arts and Sciences students of the

University of La Salette, College Department, for gathering the information needed to address the problem by

examining the respondents' responses and answering the question presented in this study.

The following guide has 2 parts:

• The Main question

• Follow-up questions (It may vary on their answer from the main question)

The first part of the survey guide includes the main question that will initially provide a substantial view of the

respondents regarding the concept for executive leaders. Then, the second part includes subjective and follow

up questions and the respondents may answer them with their knowledge about this study. The follow-up

questions will depend on their answers. The questions are connected to the desired qualities of an executive

position in the Philippines.

Data Gathering Procedure

After all data are gathered, the researchers will peruse and scrutinize the data thoroughly by reading and

analyzing the responses from the respondents with discernment and observation. The researchers will approach

the data by focusing on how the respondents answered the questionnaire based on their categories: by age and

by sex. The researchers will still conduct further checks of the data collected from the responses as there may be

errors that may affect the interpretation of data.

Data Analysis

STEP 1: Prepare the Data

After all the data is garnered from the participants, the Researchers will compile all data for analysis.

STEP 2: Define the Unit of Analysis

The Research shall identify the primary expression of idea.

STEP 3: Develop Categories and a Coding Scheme

Now the researchers will create Categories and will derive from three sources; Data, Previous Studies, and

theories.

STEP 4: Test Coding Scheme on a Sample of Text

Now, the researchers shall analyze the answers given by the participants and ensure consistency of data.

STEP 5: Code all Text

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The Researchers will check if the consistency is accurate and continue to analyze remaining answers from the

participants.

STEP 6: Draw Conclusion from the Coded Data

After all data is analyzed, the researchers will create and draw conclusions on the given results.

STEP 7: Report Methods and Findings

After all, the researchers will write and publish the findings and results in this study.

Ethical Consideration

Ethical Considerations are the things the researchers must comply with throughout the conducting of this study.

This part of the methodology will guide the researchers in avoiding violating the respondents' and

owners ' personal rights.

Adherence to these ethical considerations is essential to preserve the righteous procedure of this research, with

the unfiltered truth and avoidance of mistakes.

The ethical approval for the use of students in this study will be obtained from our research adviser and the

advisers of each course under the College of Arts and Sciences. As this study concerns the desired qualities of

an executive position in the Philippines, all data will be discreet, private, confidential, and treated anonymously.

The respondents of this study will be informed about the content of the study regarding the desired qualities of

a president and vice-president in the Philippines from the perspective of senior CAS students.

The results of this study will not lean on a particular preconceived intention as this aimed to look at the concepts

of the desired qualities of an executive position in the Philippines among CAS students. This is to ensure that

the study results will not contain any personal preferences and will be held subjectively.

Moreover, this study will approach the issue with neutrality as it will not highlight specific qualifications and

desired traits and attainments of the executive position that will please the researcher's desires. This study will

firmly resist any influence on conducting the study, especially in analyzing the gathered data to ensure the non-

partisanship nature of this research. The researchers also used proper citations and credits to the rightful owners

of all the information and data used in this study, which are all mentioned in the references section of this study.

This indicates that the researchers respect the works of others and have recognized the essence of the intellectual

property rights of the distinguished entities.

RESULTS

Themes:

Responses:

1. Educational

Attainment

(25 responses)

“Having a leader that has a degree is a must because nire-represent niya ‘yung isang

qualities ng isang responsible at disiplinadong leader.”

(Having a leader with a degree is a must because it represents the qualities of a

responsible and disciplined leader.)

“Having a degree, even a bachelor’s is advantageous”

“Effective leadership is developed through a combination of education, experience,

and personal attributes”

“Having a degree is important”

2. Service to the

Community

(14 responses)

“Execute the responsibility as a leader in the community”

“Enhanced ‘yung leadership skills”

(Enhanced their leadership skills)

“Responsible leader”

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3. Moral Ascendancy

(4 responses)

“Personal attributes”

“Disiplinadong leader”

(Disciplined Leader)

4. Isolated Case

(1 response)

“No, kasi we have equal rights as stated sa Philippine Constitution”

(No, because we have equal rights as stated in the Philippine Constitution)

Majority of the respondents’ answers falls under Educational Attainment. Service to the community and Moral

Ascendancy follows respectively.

DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the data analysis and discussion of the results. Based on interviewed answers that the

researchers reviewed, the desired qualities of an Executive Position in the Philippines among senior CAS

Students. The themes identified within the data include Educational Attainment, Service to the Community,

Moral Ascendancy, and Isolated Case. Responses were placed under the four categories.

Educational Attainment:

“Having a leader that has a degree is a must because nire-represent niya ‘yung isang qualities ng isang

responsible at disiplinadong leader”

(Having a leader with a degree is a must because it represents the qualities of a responsible and disciplined

leader.)

“Having a degree, even a bachelor’s is advantageous”

“Effective leadership is developed through a combination of education, experience, and personal attributes”

“Having a degree is important”

All of the answers were almost identical. All interviewees agreed that educational attainment is an essential

quality for an aspiring leader of our country. According to one of the respondents, having a degree emphasizes

their ability to execute the responsibility as a leader. Another interviewee mentioned that having a degree proves

the competent side of an aspiring leader for the highest position in the Philippine Government.

One reason to expect education-based ingroup bias in voting preferences is that education plays an important

role in current political conflicts. (van Noord, J., 2022)

If higher educated candidates are seen as more competent and intelligent, this might lead even less educated

voters to vote for them. While ingroup bias and (education-based) candidate competence would lead higher

educated voters to prefer higher educated candidates, these factors work in opposite directions for less educated

voters. (van Noord, J., 2022)

It may be high time that something was done to raise the level of political maturity of our people and to expand

the legal qualifications of candidates to ensure that only the most worthy and capable occupied elective public

offices. At the end of the day, as experience has shown, the leader of a country is a question of character. (De

Leon & De Leon Jr, 2019).

Service to the Community:

“Execute the responsibility as a leader in the community”

“Enhance ‘yung leadership skills”

(Enhanced their leadership skills)

“Responsible leader”

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The servant leader senses that much have been lost in recent human history due to the shift from local

communities to large institutions as the primary shapers of human lives. This awareness causes the servant leader

to seek ways to build community among those working within a given institution. Servant leadership suggests

that true community can be created among those who work in businesses and other institutions. Greenleaf

(1977/2002) All that is needed to rebuild community as a viable life form for large numbers of people is for

enough servant-leaders to show the way, not by mass movements, but by each servant-leader demonstrating his

or her unlimited liability for a quite specific community-related group.

More than half of the interviewees' answers mentioned that they would also prefer an aspiring leader who

prioritizes service in different aspects of society, like service towards education, economics, agriculture, and

others. They perceived that service to the community is the primary purpose of being a leader.

Community participation has the potential to boost the economy in the area. Local businesses and organizations

often benefit from the time, energy, and money engaged residents put into community projects and initiatives.

As a result, the community’s economy thrives, more people find jobs, and everyone’s living conditions improve.

(Khan, A. Z., & Lee, C.-W., 2025)

Moral Ascendancy:

“Personal attributes”

“Disiplinadong leader”

(Disciplined leader)

This theme is the most concerning among the four themes, as only four respondents mentioned the morality of

aspiring leaders. It is concerning that most of the interviewees focused on educational attainment and experience

rather than on the morality or background of the candidates.

When electing someone as our representative, we are likely concerned about their agency, competence, and

ability to pursue political goals. However, delegating power also requires trust in the person we delegate power

to. When voting, we wonder whether the representatives we elect will keep their commitment and do what we

voted for, or, in other words, whether they are trustworthy, loyal, and honest. (Catellaniani & Bertolotti, 2015).

Moral Ascendancy considers the clean history or background of the candidate if he/she is involved in any illegal

or immorality like infidelity, breaking promises, and others.

Isolated Case:

“No, kasi we have equal rights as stated sa Philippine constitution, if magkakaroon ng qualification na at least

college degree, magkakaroon ng bias and conflict from the existing law. Bago sila mag lagay ng qualification

na at least college grad ayusin muna nila system ng education para-accessible ito sa lahat at walang napag

iiwanan.”

(No, because we have equal rights as stated in the Philippine constitution. If there's a qualification requiring at

least a college degree, it would create bias and conflict with the existing law. Before they impose a requirement

of at least a college degree, they should first fix the education system to make it accessible to everyone and

ensure no one is left behind.) This interviewee disagrees with the idea of elevating the qualifications of the

executive position.

CONCLUSION

Based on the study findings, most of the voters in Senior CAS Students would like or prefer candidates with

higher educational attainment or, in short, with a degree. That is the high likelihood of voting for a political

candidate with the same attributes and views as the voter. These results can be the basis for those in politics to

look into how students view a political candidate's profile and consider strengthening and improving their

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personal and political backgrounds. The same research should be conducted on other respondents for a broader

understanding of voting behavior.

The executive candidate's least considered factor or attribute is moral ascendancy, as most interviewees do not

consider their behavior or attitude. This concludes that educational attainment is the preferred quality, and moral

ascendancy is the least preferred.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The results found that the most crucial factor in considering a candidate running for an executive position is

having higher educational attainment or having a degree, and the least considered factor is his moral ascendancy.

The researchers recommend that candidates should at least have a degree in order to run for the two highest

positions in the Philippine Government, as people see that as an advantage, which is one. The benefits of having

a degree extend an aspiring candidate's leadership skills and capability.

For the voters, it is a must to consider and prioritize a candidate's moral ascendancy. Behavior, records, and

attitude fall under this category, which defines the candidate's personality.

It is ineffective for the country that we are led by an empathetic, kind, yet weak leader. It is also not good if we

are led by an intellectual yet immoral one. Seek balance between the two.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Political Science is a vast subject to learn, and researches under this subject is both challenging and

developmental for me and for the society. This study would not been possible without the contributions of many

talented individuals.

To my colleagues, Renato L. Felipe III and David Christian M. Sy, I thank both of you for giving all of your

best and effort for this study. Cheers to the meetings and brainstorming we had. I know all of us truly have the

burning passion for politics and how we can change the society through our own various ways.

To our brilliant and hands-on Research Adviser, Dr. Belinda A. Ramos, FPAMS, MSpH, thank you for exposing

us to the field of research. Your expertise contributed to the completion of this research.

I would like to give my appreciation to my parents, Rommel P. Camarao and Melona M. Camarao. The best

parents in the world.

To my partner, Louisse Glaze C. Villarente, I thank you for being my support system and consistently uplifting

me to fulfill our dreams.

I would like to acknowledge our beloved country, The Philippines, this research for you.

Kurt Hendrix Macas Camarao, Ba Political Science

First, I extend my deepest gratitude to The Almighty Father for His boundless guidance, wisdom, and strength

that sustained me throughout this research journey.

My sincerest appreciation goes to Dr. Belinda A. Ramos, FPAMS, MSpH, my research adviser, for her guidance,

and support and to my team, Kurt Hendrix Camarao and David Christian Sy, for their dedication and cooperation.

Special thanks to Kerby Tecson for his support throughout this journey.

To my parents, Daddy Ren Jr. and Mommy Fey, to my sister, Reign Marie and to my closest relatives, thank

you for your unconditional love, constant encouragement and for always reminding me that I am not alone in

the journey that I am facing. To my dearest friends, thank you for your understanding and it truly meant a lot.

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I also dedicate this work to the people who continue to suffer from corruption in the Philippines, whose struggles

remind me of the enduring importance of integrity, accountability, and genuine leadership.

Lastly, I thank myself for staying strong and resilient, and to all the girls I have loved before, thank you for

teaching me tenderness and for helping me see the beauty in growth and compassion.

Renato Lahom Felipe Iii, Ba Political Science

It is with the deepest sense of humility and profound gratitude that I first and foremost thank the Lord for the

countless blessings bestowed upon me, particularly for the gift of wisdom that made the successful completion

of this research possible.

I dedicate this accomplishment to the constellation of individuals whose subsequent dedication, insight, and

unwavering support illuminated every stage of this demanding yet rewarding journey. My sincere appreciation

is next extended to the core of my working alliance: my exceptional teammates, Renato Lahom Felipe III and

Kurt Hendrix Macas Camarao, whose collaborative spirit and intellectual rigor transformed aspiration into

tangible accomplishment.

Furthermore, my debt of gratitude is immeasurable to my esteemed mentor, Doc Belinda A. Ramos, whose

profound academic insight and patient guidance served as the indispensable compass steering this entire

endeavor to its successful culmination.

On the deepest personal level, my heart swells with thankfulness for the steadfast, enduring love and silent

sacrifices of my beloved family members, who have consistently provided an unshakable foundation; and to my

incomparable partner, Jacaila A. Lu, whose steadfast encouragement and enduring belief have been the truest

source of motivation.

Finally, to the wider circle of friends, colleagues, and benefactors who offered words of upliftment and

encouragement at critical junctures, please accept this comprehensive expression of thanks—your faith in me

was the silent engine driving this entire process forward.

David Christian Mendoza Sy, Ba Political Science

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COVID-19 pandemic. SN Business & Economics, 4(1), 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43546-023-

00544-7

3. Catellani, P., & Bertolotti, M. (2015). The perception of politicians' morality: Attacks and defenses. In

J. P. Forgas, K. Fiedler, & W. D. Crano (Eds.), Social psychology and politics (pp. 113–128). Psychology

Press

4. Catchuela & Santiago (2017) Qualification standards of National election candidates in the executive

department (Inputs to new electoral reforms Imperial journal of interdisciplinary research (IJIR) Vol-3,

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5. Chatterjee, R. and Suy, R. (2019) An Overview of Citizen Satisfaction with Public Service: Based on the

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Philippines: Its Implications for Theory, Research and Practice.J. Rajasekar et al. (eds.), Culture and

Gender in Leadership © Palgrave Macmillan, a division of MacmillanPublishers Limited 2013.

7. De Leon, H. S., & De Leon Jr., H. M. (2019). Textbook on the Philippine Constitution (8th ed.) [eBook].

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8. Drew, C. (2023). Credentialism: Definition, Examples & Criticisms. Helpful Professor.

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9. https://sociologydictionary.org/credentialism/?fbclid=IwAR2C2iFHTxuUOkd7r-1XEGIQhlFnmy6t-

v8OCi5cK1SQ1mUw5ualftLELSk

10. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/constitutions/the-1987-constitution-of-the-republic-of-the-

philippines/the-1987-constitution-of-the-republic-of-the-philippines-article-vii/

11. Khan, A. Z., & Lee, C.-W. (2025). Exploring Leadership’s Role in Sustainable Development: The

Moderating Impact of Community Involvement in SMEs Across Pakistan, India, and

Taiwan. Sustainability, 17(16), 7384. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167384

12. Merriam-Webster (2023) – (n.d) (Credentialism).

13. Muteswa (2016) "Qualities of a Good Leader and the Benefits of Good Leadership to an Organization:

A Conceptual Study" European Journal of Business and Management ISSN 2222-1905 (Paper) ISSSN

2222-2839 (Online) Vol., 8 No. 24, 2016. www.iste.org

14. Napoles (2020) “Leadership Quality Reconsideration: Strengthening the Vanguards of Liberty and

Prosperity through the Imposition of Academic Qualifications on National Elective Officials” Centro

Escolar University https://libropos.com

15. Palencia, R. S. (2022). Executive leadership traits and the organizational culture of selected higher

education institutions in Region VIII, Philippines. International Journal of Health Sciences, 6(6).

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16. Schweisfurth, M., Davies, L., Pe Symaco, L., Valiente, O., & Robles, C. (2016). Developmental

leadership in the Philippines: Educational experiences, institutions and networks [Research paper].

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leadership-in-the-philippines-educational-experiences-institutions-and-networks/

17. Tandoc - Juan, Juan, & Atianzar (2019) Political Candidates' Profile Through the Lens of Student Voters.

Educational Research International Vol.8(4) November 2019. ISSN: 2307-3721, e ISSN: 2307-3713

http://www.erint.sa vap.org.pk

18. an Noord, J. (2022). When and why people prefer higher educated politicians [Doctoral dissertation,

University of Groningen]. University of Groningen Research Portal.

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Groningen]. University of Groningen Research Portal. https://doi.org/10.33612/diss.177214131

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APPENDIX

APPENDIX A: INTERVIEW GUIDE

Here is the main question that were asked to the respondents:

1. What is your concept on the desired qualities of an Executive Position in the Philippines?

The following sub-questions were used during our data collection procedure:

1. Does having a degree gives a leader an advantage towards his leadership? if yes, why? if no, why not?

2. Did the candidate you voted last presidential election satisfied your assumption? if yes, why? If no, why

not?

3. Is college degree for candidates in executive position a standard requirement? If yes, why? If no, why

not?

4. Can leaders with limited formal education be considered subject to credentialism? If yes, why? If

otherwise, why?

5. Do you think all courses in college can be applicable in executive position? If yes, why? If no, why not?

6. What course should a candidate of executive position possess?

 What about those who only finished bachelor’s degree?

 Can that candidate perform well in that position if he/she did not finish college?

Are there certain skills or knowledge sets acquired through education that are essential for effective executives?

APPENDIX B: TRANSCRIPTION

RESPONDENT NO.1

"Personally speaking, oo kasi 'dun naman halos lahat pagkukuhanan mo ng trabaho, yun yung pinakauna nilang

titignan if either Bachelor's Degree or Masteral degree and Doctoral. Yun nga may na graduate ka, may

experience ka, even seminars something like that. Mas nae-enhance 'yung leadership skills."

"Kahit natalo siya, meron pa rin siyang ginagawa. Ayon ang gusto kong maging amendment ng Constitution,

amendment lang, dahil nakikita ko sa requisite for running for the President or Executive Position ay "Able to

read and write" lang, pero wala siyang nailagay na College Degree. Dapat sana meron."

"Mas effective ang leader kung may College Degree."

(Personally speaking, yes, because that's where you'll get most of your jobs; it's what they look at first if you

have a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree. That's when you have a degree, experience, and maybe even

seminars. The leadership skills are enhanced.)

(Even though he lost, he's still doing something. That's what I want to see: an amendment to the Constitution,

just an amendment. I see that the requirement for running for President or an Executive Position is "able to read

and write," but he didn't include a college degree. He should have.)

(He's more effective if a leader if he has a college degree.)

RESPONDENT NO. 2

Yes of course, because you are immersed to different avenues of the university that made you a leader. There

are qualities that can be learned inside the four walls of the classroom."

“It can be a standard qualification, depending on the intent of running for a position. Leadership in the simplest

way, cannot be determined by any qualifications, but leadership in running for a position, just for example

running in the election. You need also to be qualified, to be competent enough through the degree you have.

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Example in the Political Science Department, once that you got the degree, you are warranted with methodology

or political dynamics utilized in running your Jurisdiction."

RESPONDENT NO. 3

"Being a leader, it's a must to have a degree for them to be able to execute the responsibility as a leader in the

community."

"It can be yes, or no. Kasi yun iba naman kasi may mga candidates na kaya namang mag lead sa kanilang

community by their motives na gusto talaga nila at yung intention at passion. Pero meron kasi 'yung iba, na may

degree sila or nakatapos sila ng college, but wala doon yung pagle-lead nila and nonsense."

(Being a leader, it's essential for them to have a degree in order to fulfill their responsibilities as a leader in the

community.

(It can be yes or no. Because some of the other candidates have the ability to lead their community based on

their genuine motives, intentions, and passion. But there are some people who have a degree or have finished

college but lack leadership skills and are nonsensical.)

Respondent No.4

“Having a leader that has a degree is a must because nire-represent niya ‘yung qualities ng isang responsible at

isang disiplinadong leader because ‘yung degree na ‘yun ay nag e-emphasize ng kung ano ang kaya niyang i-

offer or ibigay sa isang community kasi ‘yung degree, nagre-represent ng standard ng isang good and responsible

leader.”

“It depends kasi meron paring executive officials’ na may mga specific passion and motives pero mas okay kung

may degree parin.”

(Having a leader with a degree is a must because it represents the qualities of a responsible and disciplined

leader. This is because the degree emphasizes what they can offer or give to a community. The degree represents

the standard of a good and responsible leader.)

(It depends because there are still executive officials who have specific passions and motives, but it's still better

if they have a degree.)

RESPONDENT NO. 5

“Yes. Being educated means meron kang core foundation on the qualities of a good leader and hindi lang naman

sa realities ng buhay ka natututo. Meron kang basis for example, theories na kailangangan i-follow and at the

same time, standards na doon mo makikita kung ano ang dapat mae-exude at kung ano ang makikita ng mga tao

sa lider na nakikita natin sa society.”

“Sa personal preference ko pagdating sa mga executive officials, yes. It is a must for me, dahil ang executive

officials ay sila ‘yung nasa higher hierarchy so doon mo makikita. Sa preference ko, mas gugustuhin ko ‘yung

leader na may college degree back with trainings, seminars, or leadership engagements kasi pa’no mo masasabi

na on the right track ‘yung platforms nila an turn it into reality without proper connection, mga procedures, mga

protocols, and so on. It’s a solid yes for me na kailangan ng college degree to run for the executive position.”

(Yes. Being educated means you have a core foundation in the qualities of a good leader, and you don't just learn

from the realities of life. You have a basis, for example, theories that need to be followed, and at the same time,

standards that show what should be exuded and what people see in the leaders we see in society.)

(In my personal preference when it comes to executive officials, yes, it's a must for me because executive

officials are those at the higher hierarchy, so that's where you'll see it. In my preference, I would prefer a leader

with a college degree and additional training, seminars, or leadership engagements because how can you say

their platforms are on the right track and turn them into reality without proper connections, procedures, protocols,

and so on? It's a solid yes for me that a college degree is needed to run for the executive position.)

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RESPONDENT NO.6

“Yes. Kumbaga ‘yung sa four years na pag-aaral, magkakaroon ka ng knowledge about specific learnings sa

kung anong course ang natapos that makes you qualified leader kasi meron kang knowledge with that. So, it’s a

yes for me.”

“Yes, kasi syempre pag may degree ka, for sure alam mo at mas mas alam mo gagawin mo so, it’s a yes for me.”

(Yes. It's like, in four years of studying, you'll gain knowledge about specific learnings in whatever course you

finish, which makes you a qualified leader because you have knowledge in that area. So, it's a yes for me.

(Yes, because of course, if you have a degree, you'll definitely know what to do, and you'll know how to do it

better, so it's a yes for me.)

RESPONDENT NO.7

“Yes kasi ‘yung voters, ‘doon nila makikita at ‘doon sila magkaka-idea na kung ano ang details ng mga

tumatakbo like for example, “Si ganito pala ay ‘yung may degree. Capable din siya and maria-apply niya sa

work ‘yung natapos niya” I agree na dapat merong college degree ang isang executive official.”

“For me, it’s a yes kasi dun natin makikita kung qualified ba talaga ‘yung candidate at makikita natin sa

leadership background niya.”

“So, doon natin makikita na kung kaya ba nilang mamuno and sa background, makikita pa natin kung ano ‘yung

nagawa at kung may magagawa pa ba.”

(Yes, because the voters can see and get an idea there about the details of the candidates, like, for example, 'Oh,

this person has a degree.'" He's also capable and can apply what he finished to his work. I agree that an executive

official should have a college degree.)

(For me, it's a yes because that's where we can see if the candidate is truly qualified, and we can see it in their

leadership background.)

(So, that's where we'll see if they can lead, and in the background, we'll see what they've done and if they can

still do anything.)

RESPONDENT NO. 8

“Para sakin, having a degree for leadership is important kasi leader ka and may mga taong susunod sayo so dapat

alam mo yung path na tinatahak mo, may knowledge ka about dun sa mga policies, ways, and hindi pwedeng

“bale-bale” lang kunwari sa Department of education, basta basta ka nalang ba mag a-appoint ng hindi naman

tugma sa propesyon nung tao? So dapat, meron dapat kaalaman ang isang lider.”

“Dipende parin sa tao kasi kahit na may degree ka, kung yung pagkatao mo naman e hindi tama, edi hindi parin

maganda.”

“Oo. Lalo na kung sa politics at dapat talaga, merong degree.”

(For me, having a degree in leadership is important because you are a leader and people will follow you, so you

should know the path you are taking and have knowledge about the policies and ways. You can't just "wing it,"

for example, in the Department of Education. Would you just appoint someone who isn't even qualified for the

profession? So, a leader should have knowledge.)

(It still depends on the person because even if you have a degree, if your personality isn't good, then it's still not

good.)

(Yes. Especially in politics, and you really need a degree.)

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RESPONDENT NO. 9

“Yes, for me kasi somehow, makukuha nung candidate ang trust ng mga tao niya na kahit papano, qualified siya

sa posisyong tinatakbuhan niya because he/she is a degree holder na may napatunayan sa sarili.”

“Yes. Mas magiging effective ang leadership niya kapag degree holder.”

“Yes. Atleast degree holder sana ang mga tumatakbo for executive position.”

(Yes, somehow the candidate will gain the trust of their people because, in a way, they are qualified for the

position they are running for since they are a degree holder who has proven themselves.)

(Yes. His leadership will be more effective if he has a degree.)

(Yes. At least the candidates for executive positions should have a degree.)

RESPONDENT NO. 10

“Yes, kailangan ng degree lalo na sa qualifications, kasi syempre pag may experience ‘yung leader with a college

degree, doon natin makikita ‘yung competencies ng mga gustong umupo sa pinakamataas na posisyon.”

“For me, yes kasi isang advantage ‘yun and mas advanced ang knowledge and experiences nila.”

(Yes, a degree is needed, especially for qualifications, because of course, if the leader has experience with a

college degree, that's where we can see the competencies of those who want to hold the highest position.)

(For me, yes, because that's an advantage, and they have more advanced knowledge and experiences.)

RESPONDENT NO. 11

“Yes, need yun kasi, mas formal yung batas na ilalabas nila. Di naman basta basta ang government.”

“Oo, kailangan kasi hindi nga basta-basta, dapat aware sa mga batas.”

(Yes, that's needed because the law they're going to release is more formal. The government isn't just any

ordinary thing.)

(Yes, because it's not just any kind of thing; you need to be aware of the laws.)

RESPONDENT NO.12

“Oo, naman. Kailangan talaga kasi bawat sector dapat alam niya ‘yan kasi pamumunuan niya ‘yan gaya ng

edukasyon, ekonomiya, pulitika, agrikultura, at marami pang iba. Lahat ‘yun ay kailangang may alam siya so,

kailangan niya ng degree. Atleast a degree. And, lawmaker siya ‘diba? So kailangang may alam siya sa batas.”

“Oo naman kasi hindi siya aasa sa mga pasistang kumokontrol sa kanya kasi kadalasan kapag walang alam ‘yung

lider, aasa siya ‘dun sa mga advisers niya na kadalasan, wala namang ibang gusto kundi personal gain lang.”

“Sobrang mahina kasi mas mabigat pa ‘yung requirements kung mag a-apply ka sa mall bilang saleslady tapos

pamumunuan mo ang bansa at ang alam mo lang ay ‘read and write’? Hindi pwede ‘yon.”

“Oo naman, dapat lang na may college degree requirement”

(Yes, of course. It's really necessary for every sector to know that because they will be leading them, such as

education, economy, politics, agriculture, and many others. He needs to know all of that, so he needs a degree.

At least a degree. And he's a lawmaker, right? So, he needs to know something about the law.)

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(Of course, because he won't rely on the fascists who control him, since most of the time when the leader doesn't

know anything, he'll rely on his advisors, who usually only want personal gain.)

(It's too weak because the requirements are even heavier if you apply to the mall as a saleslady, and you're going

to lead the country, and all you know is how to read and write? That's not possible.)

RESPONDENT NO. 13

“Yes, kasi para sa mga citizens, nauuna iyan sa standards nila since lahat tayo ay nag-aaral para mapunta sa kung

saan angkop ang skills natin. Base sa napag-aralan nila or sa degree na nakuha nila, doon natin makikita kung

karapat-dapat ba sila sa posisyon or not.”

“Yes, para sa’kin kasi naka-dipende ‘yan sa citizen kung gusto mo na magbe-benefit ka more e mamimili ka ng

pasok sa standards mo or mamimili ka ng mga pasok sa qualifications mo which is ‘yun yung nakapag tapos

kasi na-aral na niya at para napag-handaan mo ‘yung mga jobs or tasks na ibibigay sayo lalo na sa position na

‘yun.”

“Kahit ano naman ang course mo as long as you’re capable and you have that kind of quality, hindi hadlang

kung anong degree man ang meron siya.”

(Yes, because for citizens, that comes first in their standards since we are all studying to go where our skills are

best suited. Based on what they've studied or the degree they've obtained, that's where we'll see if they're suitable

for the position or not.)

(Yes, for me, that depends on the citizen. If you want to benefit more, you'll choose someone who meets your

standards or someone who meets your qualifications, which is someone who has finished their studies and is

prepared for the jobs or tasks that will be given to them, especially for that position.)

(No matter what course you take, as long as you're capable and have that kind of quality, it doesn't matter what

degree he has.)

RESPONDENT NO. 14

“Yes, kasi pag dating sa leadership, of course yung mga leaders pagdating sa kanilang educational journey, dito

mahahasa ‘yung mga skills at dito nai-improve and dito narin mashe-shape lahat ng kailangan nila para makapag-

lead.

“For me, yes kasi pero hindi ko naman dina-downgrade ‘yung mga hindi nakapagtapos or hindi kaya ang

education pero mas maganda kung backed with experiences, with knowledge, and doon ka kasi mahahasa kapag

nasa higher education ka and mas magkakaroon ka ng potential to lead a country.”

(Yes, because when it comes to leadership, of course, when leaders reach their educational journey, this is where

their skills are honed and improved and where everything they need to lead is shaped.)

(For me, yes, because I don't look down on those who didn't finish or couldn't afford higher education. But it's

better if it's backed with experience and knowledge. You'll be honed when you're in higher education, and you'll

have more potential to lead a country.)

RESPONDENT NO.15

“Well, para sa’kin kasi, it depends sa diploma or degree nung leader ‘yan na masasabi natin. Sabihin natin na

it’s not related to the profession he’s taking, then there’s no advantage on that. For me, is depende talaga kung

anong degree naman ang meron doon sa leader.”

“Just I said, dipende talaga but what I’m going to advocate is there should be a requirement na parang sa SK

natin ngayon na before they go into position, they conduct a seminar for good governance and ‘yun din yung

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gusto ko para sa leaders na hindi knowledgeable enough sa mga affairs ng government, there should be a

requirement like seminar or they should attend a class regarding good governance and for me, that will help a

leader to do his job better.”

(Well, for me, it depends on the leader's diploma or degree, we can say. Let's say it's not related to the profession

he's pursuing; then there's no advantage in that. For me, it really depends on what degree the leader has there.)

(Just like I said, it really depends, but what I'm going to advocate for is that there should be a requirement, similar

to our current SK system, where before they assume their positions, they conduct a seminar on good governance.

That's also what I want for leaders who aren't knowledgeable enough about government affairs. There should be

a requirement like a seminar, or they should attend a class regarding good governance. For me, that will help a

leader do their job better.)

RESPONDENT NO.16

“’Yung pagkakaroon ng degree, advantage ‘yun kasi the candidate studied a lot and you have studied enough

and when it comes to public administration, for example kung ikaw ‘yung mambabatas, dapat yung degree mo

ay may kinalaman kasi your degree would help you when it comes to office especially sa hinahawakan mo.”

“Oo. Dapat lang kasi yung qualifications na “able to read and write”, “Natural Born-Filipino” at sana, taasan

natin ang standards natin when it comes to choosing our leader. Sana ‘yung may degree, marunong sa batas,

marunong sa pamamahala.”

(Having a degree is an advantage because the candidate studied a lot and you have studied enough. When it

comes to public administration, for example, if you are a legislator, your degree should be relevant because your

degree would help you in your office, especially in the position you hold.)

(Yes. It's only right that the qualifications are "able to read and write" and "natural-born Filipino," and hopefully,

we can raise our standards when it comes to choosing our leader. I hope someone with a degree, knowledge of

law, and management skills is chosen.)

RESPONDENT NO. 17

“Yes, kasi paano nya ima-manage ‘yung country natin kung wala siyang college degree or any degree na natapos

kasi hindi naman ang pagma-manage ng country e madali lang. Kailangan talaga ng degree”

“Papayag ako na may college degree dapat sa requirements”

(Yes, because how can he manage our country if he doesn't have a college degree or any degree at all, since

managing a country isn't easy?" You really need a degree.)

(I agree that a college degree should be a requirement.)

RESPONDENT NO. 18

“For me, yes kasi having a degree, it means na pinaghirapan mo ‘yun. Paano ka magma-manage ng country kung

wala kang degree o experience isa isang particular na bagay.

“Oo papayag ako na madagdagan o mapalitan ng “having a college degree”. In my own perspective, ang

magiging effect e magkakaroon ng good management sa ating bansa.”

(For me, yes, because having a degree means you worked hard for it. How can you manage a country if you

don't have a degree or experience in a particular field?)

(Yes, I agree to add or replace it with "having a college degree." In my own perspective, the effect will be good

management in our country.)

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RESPONDENT NO. 19

“Having a degree is advantageous in a leader kasi the expectation for a college degree is often rooted in the belief

that higher education demonstrates the necessary na may alam at ipakita yung critical thinking skills required

for these high-level leadership roles.”

“Yes, Filipinos nowadays are very OA observant and they want a leader who is deserving of the position. I want

to be globally competitive; I agree that should require our leaders to be professionally educated at the very best

and I thank you.”

(Having a degree is advantageous for a leader because the expectation for a college degree is often rooted in the

belief that higher education demonstrates the necessary knowledge and critical thinking skills required for these

high-level leadership roles.)

(Yes, Filipinos are very observant these days, and they want a leader who is worthy of the position. I want to be

globally competitive; I agree that this should require our leaders to be professionally educated at the very best,

and I thank you.)

RESPONDENT NO. 20

“First and foremost, obtaining a degree demonstrates a level of dedication, perseverance, and intellectual

capability. Completing a degree program requires years of rigorous study, enabling politicians to make informed

decisions that benefit society as a whole. A degree is a sign of a specific level of education and expertise in a

field. Politicians possessing specific knowledge in fields such as economics, law, public administration, or

environmental science can provide vital perspectives and ideas to tackle critical issues faced by their citizens.

The decision-making process in governance demands individuals with an understanding of various subjects,

critical thinking abilities, and a commitment to serving the public. Therefore, that the requirement for politicians

to hold a degree is not only logical but also essential for good and effective governance.”

RESPONDENT NO. 21

“Yes, it is an advantage in leadership to have a degree because, school is our foundation of becoming nurtured.

Though the dilemma lies between what’s more essential in terms of leadership whether knowledge or wisdom.

Knowledge can be grasp of what is being thought while wisdom is inert to a person and it can’t be learned.

Having a degree is an advantage but it’s not necessarily the main idea.”

“No, kasi we have equal rights as stated sa Ph constitution, if magkakaroon ng qualification na at least college

degree magkakaroon ng bias and conflict from the existing law. Bago sila mag lagay ng qualification na at least

college grad ayusin muna nila system ng education para accessible ito sa lahat at walang napag iiwanan.”

(Yes, having a degree is an advantage in leadership because school is the foundation for our development.

Although the dilemma lies in what is more essential in terms of leadership, knowledge or wisdom. Knowledge

can be the understanding of what is being thought, while wisdom is inherent to a person and cannot be learned.

Having a degree is an advantage, but it's not necessarily the main idea.)

(No, because we have equal rights as stated in the Philippine constitution. If there's a qualification requiring at

least a college degree, it would create bias and conflict with the existing law. Before they impose a requirement

of at least a college degree, they should first fix the education system to make it accessible to everyone and

ensure no one is left behind.)

RESPONDENT NO. 22

"Yes, having a degree, even a bachelor's one, is advantageous because it is a testament and proof that one had

achieved a higher form of education, especially through the field of research. Although one's experience may

come into factor, a degree, while not required or mandatory for 'leadership' is 'beneficial' in today's world because

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it can develop and enhance further one's leadership capabilities and also because a degree shows more 'formality.

Chances of being accepted too in various institutions and companies relies on having a college degree."

"Yes, payag ako because it correlates directly well to the first question. While being able to "read and write" is

the bare minimum and in this democratic country where anyone can run for the office of the presidency and vice

presidency, a college degree shows that you are a professional who had achieve something beforehand like

research or thesis.

Logically speaking, being able to "read and write" can be done too by children. Isn’t it and what's the difference

if that's the case? The point here is that, does this mean that even the most "lowest denominator" or those who

didn't studied at all, not even an elementary diploma or those who didn't finished their high school of society can

run for those posts too? Excluding biases towards their respective backgrounds like poverty, can they for

example defend themselves in debates using facts, logic, strong arguments, or other empirical evidences without

resorting to mere opinions, naysays, and personal beliefs? Like Manny Pacquiao only did "crash course" masteral

to be a Senator."

(Yes, having a degree, even a bachelor's, is advantageous because it's a testament and proof that one has achieved

a higher level of education, especially through research. Although one's experience may be a factor, a degree,

while not required or mandatory for 'leadership,' is 'beneficial' in today's world because it can further develop

and enhance one's leadership capabilities and also because a degree shows more 'formality.' Chances of being

accepted into various institutions and companies also depend on having a college degree.)

(Yes, I agree because it correlates directly with the first question. While being able to "read and write" is the

bare minimum, and in this democratic country where anyone can run for the offices of president and vice

president, a college degree demonstrates that you are a professional who has achieved something beforehand,

such as research or a thesis.)

(Logically speaking, children can also "read and write." Isn't that true, and what's the difference if that's the case?

The point here is, does this mean that even the most "lowest common denominator" individuals, those who didn't

study at all, not even elementary school diploma holders, or those who didn't finish high school, can also run for

those positions? Excluding biases related to their respective backgrounds, such as poverty, can they, for example,

defend themselves in debates using facts, logic, strong arguments, or other empirical evidence without resorting

to mere opinions, negativity, and personal beliefs? Like Manny Pacquiao, he only did a "crash course" master's

degree to become a senator.)

RESPONDENT NO. 23

"Oo agree ako, it should be College graduate that is connected sa economy, social, industrial, and legal. Para

mas naka incline ang work ethics sa specialty under sa pinag aaralan nila at mas maganda kung may

specialization sila under sa categories kung binanggit na degrees."

(Yes, I agree; it should be a college graduate connected to the economy and the social, industrial, and legal fields.

For work ethics to be more inclined toward their specialty under what they are studying, it would be better if

they had a specialization under the categories mentioned for degrees.)

RESPONDENT NO. 24

"In my opinion, yes, being a leader, you must know yourself that you have qualifications and achievements that

can be shown to the people if you are going to be a leader in a community. Being a leader has a mix of skills,

talents, and intelligence. But in this era, whether you have studied or not, some statements that given is true,

"even if you have a lot of credentials and achievements, if a rich person gives you a lot of money, even if he

doesn't have a degree, those people will choose a leader with money over one with brains"."

"Yes, I 100% agree that the qualification of every president and vice president who runs should be changed since

this will be a big step in changing our society especially in the education and economic sectors since we are

experiencing poverty and lack of education, that where a leader is a degree holder, there is a more informed and

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intelligent step that can solve the problems experienced by our country. But if this process is to be done, they

need to carefully plan and assessed each people and gather research because there are many cons that will happen

because many people will not understand this process in case."

RESPONDENT NO. 25

"For me, having a degree is certainly a huge advantage in leadership, Effective leadership is developed through

a combination of education, experience, and personal attributes. Higher education promotes critical thinking and

problem-solving skills needed in leadership."

"Changing the qualifications of president and vice president to at least "a college degree" is a big yes for me.

Kasi matutulungan nito ang kredibilidad nila bilang leader.

Having a degree as a leader will help you be more confident in certain areas.

The President and vice president are the highest positions in the government and we should always consider

setting the bar high for candidates who wish to lead and affect or change the country through their power."

(For me, having a degree is certainly a huge advantage in leadership. Effective leadership is developed through

a combination of education, experience, and personal attributes. Higher education fosters critical thinking and

problem-solving skills essential for leadership.)

(Changing the qualifications for president and vice president to at least "a college degree" is a big yes for me.

Because this will help their credibility as leaders.)

(Having a degree as a leader will help you be more confident in certain areas.)

(The President and Vice President hold the highest positions in the government, and we should always set a high

standard for candidates who wish to lead and influence or change the country through their power.)