Management Competence of Executive Leaders in Philippine State Universities and Colleges: Evidence from the Caraga Region

Abstract

Leadership effectiveness is critical to the sustainability and performance of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), particularly amid increasing demands for accountability, innovation, and quality assurance in higher education. This study assessed the extent of management competence among SUC executives in the Caraga Region, Philippines, and examined whether competence differed according to selected demographic and professional variables. Using a quantitative research design, data were gathered from 124 top management officials from four SUCs: North Eastern Mindanao State University, Caraga State University, Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology, and Surigao del Norte State University. A validated researcher-developed questionnaire measured competence across seven domains: strategic decision-making, leadership and governance, financial management and resource mobilization, policy formulation and implementation, innovation and adaptability, student support, and external resource management. Results indicated an overall competent level of management performance, with strategic decision-making rated highest and financial management lowest. Analysis of variance revealed that trainings attended consistently produced significant differences across most domains, highlighting the critical role of continuous professional development. The study concludes that institutionalizing structured leadership training programs is essential to strengthen executive competence and enhance the effectiveness of SUC governance and performance.