The Moderating Effect of Ethical Behavior on the Relationship Between Leadership Skills and Employee Engagement

This study examined the relationship between leadership skills, ethical behavior, and employee engagement among Local Government Unit (LGU) employees in Maramag, Bukidnon. Specifically, it aimed to determine the levels of leadership skills, ethical behavior, and employee engagement, assess the significant relationships among these variables, and test whether ethical behavior moderates the relationship between leadership skills and employee engagement. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational research design was utilized. Data were collected from 204 employees performing administrative or supervisory functions using validated survey instruments. Statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, Pearson product-moment correlation, and regression analysis were employed. Findings revealed that leadership skills and employee engagement were generally high, while ethical behavior was very high among respondents. Significant positive relationships were found between leadership skills and employee engagement, leadership skills and ethical behavior, and ethical behavior and employee engagement. However, moderation analysis indicated that ethical behavior did not significantly moderate the relationship between leadership skills and employee engagement, suggesting that these variables independently influence employee engagement. The study highlights the importance of strengthening both leadership practices and ethical standards within LGUs to enhance employee engagement and organizational performance. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and administrators in promoting effective governance, ethical conduct, and employee well-being in the public sector.

leadership skills, ethical behavior, employee engagement, local government unit, Philippines

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