Unfair treatment at work: Understanding and Addressing discrimination in the workplace

 John Carlo B. Estabillo, MBA

Abstract

            This paper presents the different forms of discrimination that many employees face. It provides an overview of workplace discrimination, including its various forms, such as age discrimination, gender discrimination, and disability discrimination. This paper will underscore the urgent need for continued research, as despite laws preventing discrimination, it cannot be easily eliminated or eradicated. Unfair/unequal treatment can often lead to decreased morale, reduced productivity, or worse, can lead to significant mental health issues.

Keywords: Discrimination, Ableism, Gender discrimination, Disability Discrimination.

Introduction

Workplace discrimination is rampant nowadays. This becomes a serious issue because people can judge someone based on their gender, age, religion, and other personal characteristics, which can often lead to missed opportunities and unfair treatment in the workplace. From an ethical standpoint, workplace discrimination constitutes a serious violation of fundamental principles of fairness, justice, and respect for human dignity. As we all know, workplace discrimination can significantly impact someone's well-being, especially if they are treated unfairly or unequally based on characteristics that have no bearing on their job or performance. Let's accept the fact that no work is perfect, but some employees are more likely to choose to leave their job and be unemployed than to be with the organization or to be with a company that is destroying their mental health. Discrimination – whether it occurs once or over a prolonged period – can result in low morale, decreased productivity, tension among employees, and an unhealthy work environment. Sometimes, it's not the job itself that drains people, but the office politics and favoritism. Overall, it’s not just the workload- it’s the system.

Different Kinds of Discrimination in the Workplace

Ageism

It simply means treating employees differently based on their age. This occurs when an employee receives poor treatment and is denied career opportunities due to their age. It includes being denied a job, being fired, or being viewed as unfit for a promotion due to one’s age, and we often associate it with older people or vice versa (younger ones). Ageism represents an adverse bias against older workers, most notably during the hiring and interview process, when trying to land a job, and for younger workers, the division of labor or the workload as a whole.

Ageism: Discrimination against older workers

We can’t deny the fact that this has become a real problem in the Philippines' job market nowadays, especially with the presence of technology. As we all know, we are now living in a modern world where technology makes everything easier. It is now indicated in job qualifications that having basic computer skills is a must for someone to land a job, and this becomes a problem for older workers. Employers nowadays tend to prioritize younger employees over older employees, as these young individuals can learn how to perform the job more quickly, particularly if the company utilizes digital or technological means to serve customers. As they say, younger, much bolder, more ideas, and more active in engaging in activities.

Ageism: Discrimination against younger workers

Discrimination against younger workers often occurs when the employee is new to the organization. Their seniors are discriminating against them by assigning them more work that exceeds their job description. Younger ones are often given different kinds of assignments beyond the scope of their role, while the seniors take a break.

Another example is in the hiring process, where employers do not hire younger professionals because they assume that these young individuals only work to gain experience and are likely to move to another job quickly. And that employers will sometimes discriminate against younger professionals, thinking that they don't have the same experience as the older professionals and that they haven't put in the same number of years in service, so they assume that they lack knowledge and experience for that specific role.

Gender Discrimination

Workplace gender discrimination comes in many different forms. Still, generally it means that an employee or a job applicant is treated differently or less favorably because of their sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Even though the words "sex" and "gender" have different meanings, laws against discrimination at work often use them interchangeably.

It is an unfair treatment based on gender that can often lead to unequal opportunities. An example of this is being denied a promotion or a salary raise due to gender, or paying employees of different genders different salaries for the same work.

Disability Discrimination

This refers to discrimination against employee because of their disability. Ableism is the term that describes discrimination against people with disabilities that can negatively impact their mental well-being. Ableism is the discrimination of and social prejudice against people with disabilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior. At its heart, ableism is rooted in the assumption that disabled people require 'fixing' and defines people by their disability. Like racism and sexism, ableism classifies entire groups of people as ‘less than,’ and includes harmful stereotypes, misconceptions, and generalizations of people with disabilities.

One example of disability discrimination happens in the hiring process. It occurs when an employer refuses to hire a job applicant with a disability because they assume the applicant is not capable of performing the work. Despite legal protection here in the Philippines, people with disabilities face a low unemployment rate and limited opportunities, and discrimination during the hiring process denies them the possibility to utilize their skills.

Relevant laws that prohibit discrimination

Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women

-          This is a comprehensive women's human rights law that aims to eliminate discrimination by recognizing, protecting, fulfilling, and promoting the rights of Filipino women, particularly those from marginalized sectors of society. This law covers the rights of women, including special leave benefits, healthcare access, protection for vulnerable groups, and the promotion of systemic reforms for women's empowerment. This law strengthens women's rights by addressing systemic inequalities and promoting gender-responsive policies that ensure equality, dignity, and empowerment.

Republic Act No. 10524: An Act Expanding the Positions Reserved for Persons with Disability, Amending the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability

-          This law expands employment opportunities for persons with disabilities (PWDs). It amends the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability (Republic Act No. 7277) by mandating that at least 1% of all positions in government agencies and private corporations with over 100 employees be reserved for PWDs. While the act primarily focuses on employment for PWDs, it indirectly benefits children with disabilities by promoting a more inclusive society and ensuring that their future employment prospects are safeguarded.

Conclusion

According to Frederick Kaufman, discrimination occurs when disadvantages are unjustly imposed due to group membership, and differentiation between groups is morally objectionable. Moreover, if discrimination is wrong because it disadvantages people for features they cannot change, this suggests that the feature is distasteful. It gives the impression that if they could change it, they should, but since they cannot, it is wrong to disadvantage them for, as it were, being stuck with something they can't do anything about. To conclude, organizations must treat individuals with dignity, respect, and fairness in all aspects. Everyone deserves respect at work. Work should be a safe space where discrimination is not present, so that together we can create a more inclusive society. Everyone is going through something we know nothing about. It costs nothing to be kind, so we should incorporate it into our everyday lives.

References  

Philosophy Now. (2025).The Ethics of Discrimination. Retrieved from https://philosophynow.org/issues/135/The_Ethics_of_Discrimination

Equal Rights Advocates. (2022). Know your rights at work. Retrieved from https://www.equalrights.org/issue/economic-workplace-equality/discrimination-at-work/

Ashley Eisenmenger. (2019, December 12). Ableism 101-Access living. Retrieved from https://www.accessliving.org/newsroom/blog/ableism-101/

Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act 9710), Implementing Rules and Regulations. Retrieved from https://pcw.gov.ph/faq-republic-act-9710-the-magna-carta-of-women/

Republic Act No. 10524: An Act Expanding the Positions Reserved for Persons with Disability, Amending the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability. (2013, April). Republic of the Philippines. Retrieved from https://situationofchildren.org/latest-evidence/all-reports/publication/republic-act-no-10524-act-expanding-positions-reserved

 

 

 

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Corporate Social Responsibility: A Strategic Imperative

 NICKA JANE C. SANCHEZ, MBA

Divine Word College of Laoag

Abstract

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its various categories, including environmental responsibility, philanthropy, ethics, and economic responsibility. A business’s measure of success goes beyond the bottom line. In today’s world, how a company gives back to its community, positively impacts the environment, and operates with ethical integrity is critical. This abstract also underscores that meaningful CSR requires genuine commitment and continuous adaptation to evolving societal expectations, positioning it as an indispensable component of sustainable and responsible business operations in today’s generation.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Philanthropic, Environmental, Ethical, Economic

Introduction

            Corporate Social Responsibility, also known as CSR, is a concept that explores the ethical and social obligations businesses have towards society, going beyond mere legal compliance. It encourages firms to evaluate the impact on various stakeholders, including customers, employees, and most especially the communities, and to act in a way that contributes positively to social well-being. It involves businesses taking on responsibilities that exceed what is mandated by the law and regulations. This includes addressing economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic concerns. It is not just about avoiding harm, but also about actively contributing to the greater good of society. CSR is beneficial in several ways, offering advantages such as enhancing a business's reputation, fostering customer loyalty, and, most specifically, creating a competitive advantage.

Categories of corporate social responsibility.

Environmental Responsibility

This means ensuring that organisations operate in an environmentally friendly manner whenever possible. This can also involve reducing pollution, recycling materials, replenishing natural resources, and aligning product lines with sustainable practices. Nowadays, pollution is everywhere, most especially here in the Philippines. Global pollution is increasing due to rapid economic growth, population growth, and inadequate environmental management. Organisations should have environmental responsibility because their small actions can have a significant impact. It is our collective responsibility to start taking action to save our planet. By doing so, we can make a difference, one step at a time.

One good example of a Company that I know that has environmental responsibility is the Nuevo Solar Energy Corporation. It is a corporation that is a responsible business entity, wherein they commit to embracing and promoting a positive impact on the community through their CSR. Nuevo Solar Energy Corporation (NSEC) owns a 68MWac solar plant in Currimao, Ilocos Norte, which commenced commercial operations in 2023. They support the journey towards a balanced, low-carbon energy mix by utilising clean and sustainable energy sources. Although the various renewable energy projects in the province have no direct impact on reducing electricity rates for households, host communities acknowledge that they continue to benefit from the company's corporate social responsibility projects.

One CSR that NSEC provides is its partnership with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte through the Provincial Nutrition Action Office. They provide a trust fund for training or supplementary feeding, which directly addresses a vital community need, especially for vulnerable groups such as undernourished children and pregnant and lactating moms, ensuring better nutrition outcomes. This kind of initiative can have a lasting positive impact on the community, demonstrating how renewable energy projects can contribute not only to environmental sustainability but also to social well-being.

Philanthropic Responsibility

Philanthropic responsibility refers to a corporation's aims, goals, and objectives for actively bettering society as a whole. One huge aspect of corporate philanthropy is donating money from company earnings to worthy causes within the local community, often in the form of a trust or foundation. These kinds of philanthropic efforts speak volumes to the public image as a business leader, which is crucial in today's world.

This also means aiming to make the world better and improve society through charitable activities. It also refers to businesses' aims to make the world better and improve society. This also means sharing with those who have less or have not. The Nuevo Solar Energy Corporation is indeed commendable because it also demonstrates a commitment to philanthropic responsibility. Nuevo Solar Energy Corporation provides scholarships to four students in the province of Ilocos Norte through the Provincial Education Office, which significantly amplifies the positive impact of their corporate social responsibility. Their initiative in providing scholarships has a direct investment in human capital, as scholarships directly support the education and future of individuals. This empowers them to pursue higher education and ultimately contribute more effectively to their communities. As we all know, scholarships are a significant help and can be particularly impactful in helping students from underprivileged backgrounds overcome financial barriers to education.

Ethical Responsibility

It is concerned with ensuring companies operate fairly and ensuring ethical practices within the organisation. This means that an organisation or business is doing the right thing, even if no one is watching. One example of this is that workers within that business are paid fairly and treated well. This is about a company doing what is morally right and fair, even if there isn't a specific law requiring them to. It simply means that a particular company is operating with integrity.

The concept of ethical responsibility encourages proactive behaviour, urging individuals to consider the potential impact of their actions on stakeholders and society as a whole. Organisations can promote ethical responsibility by establishing clear codes of conduct that outline expected behaviours and clearly define their moral standards. Providing regular training on ethics and creating an environment where employees feel safe to voice concerns can reinforce this commitment. Additionally, leadership should model ethical behaviour and recognise employees who demonstrate strong ethical responsibility, thereby cultivating a workplace culture centred around integrity and accountability.

Economic Responsibility

This means making financial decisions that contribute to the greater good of society while maintaining personal responsibility. It is also the practice of a firm rooted in its financial choices and a commitment to do good. In other words, economic responsibility means the company needs to be smart about how it makes and spends money so it can continue to make a profit and pay its workers. And have enough money left over to do all the environmental work, giving, and conduct ethical activities.

Economic responsibility requires a company to create and sustain jobs in the community and offer beneficial (and non-harmful) products or services. It's not solely about profit; businesses must also consider the broader impacts of their decisions. Economic responsibility encompasses ethical considerations in business decisions, ensuring that these decisions make positive contributions to society.

When a business acts with economic responsibility in mind, it makes financial decisions that prioritise the greater good over maximising profit. This means that corporate economic responsibility is intertwined with the other types above. For example, companies with social responsibility sign a contract with a supplier that uses sustainable materials, even if it comes with a higher cost to them. Another example of corporate economic responsibility is when a company commits to a transparent salary system that fairly compensates all employees and actively addresses historical pay disparities based on gender or race.

Conclusion

Corporate Social Responsibility is a commitment to managing the social, environmental, and economic effects of its operations, in line with public expectations. It is both a practical and ethical approach to business that seeks to balance profitability with societal contributions. It helps companies to build trust, maintain legitimacy, and create long-term value for their stakeholders. It also remains a crucial framework for integrating ethical considerations into modern business practices. Ultimately, CSR is not merely an option or a benevolent gesture; it is a fundamental obligation and strategic imperative. Corporations or companies exist because of the communities in which they operate; they owe their existence to the communities they serve. Thus, Corporate Social Responsibility serves as an essential mechanism through which businesses genuinely give back. As businesses continue to evolve, companies or organisations' commitment to ethical conduct and societal contribution through their CSR will lead them to foster, grow, and have a positive impact on society.

References

Benevity. (2025). The four main types of corporate social responsibility your business should consider (and why). Retrieved from https://benevity.com/resources/types-of-corporate-social-responsibility

Fiveable Inc. (2025). Key term- Ethical responsibility. Retrieved from https://library.fiveable.me/key-terms/ethics/ethical-responsibility

Kara A. (2024, June 21). Carroll’s CSR Pyramid: Principles and Examples. Retrieved from https://greenly.earth/en-gb/blog/company-guide/carolls-csr-pyramid-principles-and-examples

Leilanie A. (2023, March 30). 83.3-MW Currimao-2 solar project boosts PH renewable energy share. Retrieved from https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1198536

Pacific Oaks College. (2021, September 23). Breaking Down the 4 Types of Corporate Social Responsibility. Retrieved from https://www.pacificoaks.edu/voices/business/breaking-down-the-4-types-of-corporate-social-responsibility/

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Proposing an ethical solution to food waste practices that threaten Sustainability in Ilocos Norte’s Culinary Sector

                                                                       Oliver Gian F. Tagudin

Master's in Business Administration

Divine Word College of Laoag

Laoag City, Ilocos Norte

Philippines, 2025

Abstract

Food waste is a persistent yet underexamined issue within Ilocos Norte's restaurant sector, where operational inefficiencies and shifting cultural practices lead to significant edible losses. Despite traditional Ilocano values that promote thrift and respect for resources, modern dining norms often prioritize abundance and visual appeal, resulting in overproduction, excessive portions, and poor inventory systems. These practices contradict both local cultural ethics and sustainability goals, resulting in avoidable food waste that strains landfills, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and overlooks opportunities to redistribute food to food-insecure communities. This paper investigates the ethical perspectives surrounding food waste in Ilocos Norte's culinary sector, examining its causes and impacts through frameworks such as food justice, virtue ethics, and utilitarianism. The study also explores pathways to improve waste reduction, including staff training, policy reform, food donation partnerships, and cultural education programs that reconnect restaurants with Ilocano values. Ultimately, it argues that food waste is a moral, social, and environmental challenge that demands a holistic, culturally grounded response.

Keywords: Ilocos Norte • food waste • restaurant ethics • sustainability • food justice

Introduction

Food waste is a persistent yet overlooked issue in the culinary sector of Ilocos Norte. Restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses generate large volumes of surplus food, spoiled ingredients, and plate waste daily, contributing to environmental degradation and economic inefficiency (FAO, 2019; Gustavsson & Stage, 2021). While local food culture values thrift and respect for resources, modern dining practices often overlook these traditions, resulting in a mismatch between cultural values and industry behavior (Galang et al., 2020).

This paper will explore how food waste practices in Ilocos Norte's restaurant industry threaten sustainability. It will examine factors such as overproduction, poor inventory management, and consumer behavior, connecting these to broader social and environmental impacts (Mourad, 2020). In particular, the study highlights how food waste contradicts global and local sustainability efforts, adding pressure to landfills and increasing carbon emissions (United Nations Environment Programme, 2021). The purpose of this paper is to highlight the ethical responsibilities of culinary businesses to manage food waste effectively. Ilocos Norte, with its strong agricultural identity and tourism-driven food culture, is well-positioned to lead in sustainable practices (Castillo & Ancheta, 2022). However, without active awareness and ethical frameworks, food waste will continue to undermine local development goals and environmental health (Philippine Statistics Authority, 2023).

By analyzing current waste practices, legal frameworks, and potential solutions, the paper aims to guide restaurant operators, policymakers, and the community toward a more ethical, resource-efficient, and culturally respectful approach (Lemaire & Limbourg, 2019). Addressing food waste is not just an operational issue; it is a sustainability imperative with moral, social, and ecological dimensions that demand urgent attention (UNEP, 2021).

Ethical Perspectives on Food Waste in Ilocos Norte Restaurants

Food waste in Ilocos Norte’s culinary sector is not just operationally wasteful but ethically troubling, revealing a disconnect between traditional Ilocano values of thrift and respect for resources (pagpapahalaga sa pagkain) and modern business practices. Historically, Ilocano communities viewed food as precious, a belief rooted in agricultural hardship and community solidarity (Galang et al., 2020). However, restaurant trends toward large portions and visually striking menus now undermine these cultural values, promoting waste in the name of profit (Castillo & Ancheta, 2022).

Food justice provides a lens to challenge this contradiction, arguing that wasting edible food while others go hungry is morally indefensible and a breach of distributive justice (Lemaire & Limbourg, 2019). Virtue ethics further emphasizes the importance of habits such as prudence and moderation among restaurant operators and staff, promoting practices that respect food as a shared community resource (Papargyropoulou et al., 2019). Applying these moral perspectives can help businesses shift from a purely commercial mindset to one grounded in community values and fairness.

Similarly, utilitarian ethics supports strategies that maximize social benefit, such as surplus redistribution to those in need, while minimizing environmental harm (UNEP, 2021; Mourad, 2020). Altogether, these frameworks point to an urgent ethical reorientation in Ilocos Norte’s restaurant sector — one that balances profitability with stewardship and positions restaurants as cultural ambassadors who model respect, responsibility, and sustainability.

Factors and Consequences of Food Waste Generation

Interconnected operational and cultural factors drive food waste in Ilocos Norte's restaurant sector. Overproduction is common, driven by fears of disappointing customers and unreliable demand forecasts, leading to surplus dishes that cannot be reused (Gustavsson & Stage, 2021). Poor inventory controls, improper storage, and inadequate staff skills further worsen the problem, causing spoilage before food even reaches customers (Mourad, 2020). These inefficiencies clash with Ilocano values of thrift and respect for resources, instead promoting an unsustainable cycle of waste (Galang et al., 2020).

Consumer behavior also plays a key role. Diners frequently order multiple dishes for sharing or opt for oversized servings as a status symbol, often resulting in significant plate waste (Galang et al., 2020). Buffet setups popular in tourism-heavy areas encourage excessive food selection with little incentive to limit waste (Papargyropoulou et al., 2019). Together, these habits reinforce the cultural shift away from mindful consumption, resulting in an increased overall volume of discarded food in restaurants.

The consequences of these practices are serious. Wasted food contributes to landfill methane emissions, exacerbating climate change (FAO, 2019), while straining Ilocos Norte's already limited waste management facilities (Philippine Statistics Authority, 2023). Socially, discarding edible food denies opportunities for redistribution to food-insecure communities, deepening local inequality and contradicting Ilocano traditions of sharing and prudence (Castillo & Ancheta, 2022; UNEP, 2021). Addressing these patterns is crucial for developing ethical, sustainable, and culturally sensitive solutions.

Pathways for Sustainable and Ethical Food Waste Reduction

Addressing food waste in Ilocos Norte's restaurants requires multi-layered solutions. Staff training should be prioritized to ensure that kitchen teams understand how to minimize preparation waste, optimize portioning, and systematically monitor inventory (Gustavsson & Stage, 2021). Consumer education campaigns can reshape diners' expectations about reasonable portion sizes and encourage leftovers to be taken home.

Restaurants can establish partnerships with food banks or community organizations to redistribute their surplus, thereby avoiding landfill disposal while supporting food-insecure groups (Papargyropoulou et al., 2019). Installing better waste tracking systems, such as digital inventory monitors and daily waste logs, can help managers identify which processes generate the most waste.

Finally, integrating Ilocano cultural values of thrift and respect for food into standard operating procedures can help reconnect modern culinary practices with community ethics. Policymakers may also consider strengthening legal incentives and penalties to motivate compliance with waste-reduction targets (UNEP, 2021). Together, these measures can create a restaurant culture that is sustainable, ethical, and authentically reflective of local values.

Conclusions

Food waste in Ilocos Norte's restaurant sector reveals a critical ethical contradiction between the region's deeply held values of thrift and the modern commercial imperatives of abundance and profit. This mismatch has contributed to harmful practices, including overproduction, oversized portions, and inadequate food storage, resulting in avoidable waste that undermines both social justice and environmental sustainability. It exposes a failure of stewardship in an industry that should otherwise celebrate Ilocano culture's respect for resources and collective resilience.

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive and strategic approach. Staff training, consumer education, and collaborations with food redistribution programs can directly reduce unnecessary disposal while helping communities in need. Strengthening policy enforcement, supported by technologies such as digital waste tracking, can also help restaurants meet their sustainability targets. In parallel, promoting cultural narratives of pagpapahalaga sa pagkain can reshape customer expectations, allowing food waste reduction to align more closely with Ilocos Norte’s heritage of mindful consumption.

Ultimately, sustainable and ethical food waste management is not just a technical or regulatory matter; it is a moral commitment that protects people, resources, and the environment. By integrating ethical frameworks with local cultural practices, Ilocos Norte’s restaurants can lead a shift toward more just, resilient, and future-ready hospitality models that uphold the dignity of food and those who produce it.

References:

Castillo, R., & Ancheta, J. (2022). Sustainable tourism practices in Ilocos Norte: Challenges and opportunities. Philippine Journal of Social Development, 20(1), 55–70.

FAO. (2019). The state of food and agriculture 2019: Moving forward on food loss and waste reduction. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Galang, A., Roxas, B., & Uy, M. (2020). Consumer Food Waste Behavior in the Philippines. Journal of Cleaner Production, 246, 118987. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.118987

Gustavsson, J., & Stage, J. (2021). Food Waste Reductions and Their Climate Benefits. Food Policy, 98, 101936. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodpol.2020.101936

Lemaire, A., & Limbourg, S. (2019). How can food loss and waste management achieve sustainable development goals? Journal of Cleaner Production, 234, 1221–1234. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.06.226

Mourad, M. (2020). Recycling, recovering, and preventing "food waste": Competing solutions for food systems sustainability in the United States and France. Local Environment, 25(7), 536–551. https://doi.org/10.1080/13549839.2020.1788658

Papargyropoulou, E., Lozano, R., Steinberger, J., Wright, N., & Ujang, Z. (2019). The food waste hierarchy as a framework for sustainable food waste management. Journal of Cleaner Production, 76, 106–115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2014.04.020

Philippine Statistics Authority. (2023). Annual waste statistics 2023.

Republic Act 9003. (2000). Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

Stefan, V., van Herpen, E., Tudoran, A., & Lähteenmäki, L. (2020). Avoiding food waste by compensating for the expected consequences of actions. Food Quality and Preference, 79, 103788. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodqual.2019.103788

United Nations Environment Programme. (2021). Food waste index report 2021. UNEP. https://www.unep.org/resources/report/unep-food-waste-index-report-2021

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Ethical leadership and dilemmas of School Administrators

 JOSHUA M. RANGCAPAN, MBA

Abstract 

This paper explores the moral pillars that guide School Administrators in School-Based Management in the Philippines. It also presents ethical dilemmas faced by School Administrators in the public sector. It contemplates morality, considering the challenges schools encounter in cultivating justice and fairness in dealing with various stakeholders and resource management.

Keywords: Accountability, Leadership and Governance, Moral Responsibility, Ethical Leadership 

Introduction

Schools play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Philippines by providing quality education to millions of students. However, the Department of Education, like any organization, faces various moral challenges that affect the education system’s integrity, effectiveness, and fairness. With this, Republic Act No. 6713 establishes a code of conduct and ethical standards for public officials and employees to uphold the time-honoured principle of public office being a public trust,  granting incentives and rewards for exemplary service, enumerating prohibited acts and transactions, and providing penalties for violations thereof and for other purposes.

Ethical Dilemmas Faced by School Administrators

Republic Act No. 9155 (Governance of Basic Education Act of 2001) directed School Administrators to a decentralized school management system. This law provided them the autonomy to manage administrative and instructional supervision within their school of governance. School Administrators in the public sector are comprised of a School Head and one (or more) Administrative Officers.

School Administrators perform a pivotal function in the management of educational institutions. As an Administrative Officer, we often encounter ethical dilemmas – situations where we must choose between conflicting moral principles. These dilemmas can involve decision–making on issues related to fairness, accountability, discipline, and resource allocation.

According to Baron, J. V. & Bello, B. T. (2022), moral issues can be faced in decision-making, conflicting interests, and engagement in inappropriate behaviour. Mortari, L. & Tomba, B. (2019) identified three essential perspectives – psychological, political, and ethical. Republic Act No. 6713 also enumerated prohibited acts and transactions.

·         Financial and material interest. Suppose school administrators deliberately use government funds for their benefit, resulting in mismanaged projects or unimplemented procurement plans. In that case, this kind of act ends up as a serious ethical and moral issue. RA 6713 strictly mandates that public officials and employees shall not, directly or indirectly, have any financial or material interest in any transaction requiring the approval of their office. Schools are meant to be institutions of learning and character formation. When this kind of corruption is exposed, it damages the school’s reputation, eroding trust among students, parents, and the community. Corruption among School Administrators is an immoral act that harms the welfare of students, teachers, and society. Schools should be a place of character development, not centres of dishonesty and greed. Ethical Leadership, transparency, and strict reinforcement of anti-corruption laws are necessary to restore integrity in the education system. By eliminating corruption, schools can fulfil their true purpose: providing quality education and shaping responsible, morally upright citizens.

·         Solicitation or acceptance of gifts. While resources (financial and non-monetary) that were provided voluntarily by stakeholders, e.g., Private Corporations, Alumni, Balik-Bayans, Private Individuals, etc., for school improvement and raising funds do not pose a moral concern as long as it does not violate the provision of Section 7(d) of RA 6713, “Public officials and employees shall not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any gift, gratuity, favour, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties or in connection with any operation being regulated by, or any transaction which may be affected by the functions of their office.”

An ethical issue arises if School Administrators accept gifts, cash or in-kind, solely for their benefit, which compromises the integrity of the organization. Bribery in schools can take many forms, such as accepting gifts in exchange for admissions, grades, promotions, or contracts. This unethical practice is a betrayal of public trust and has serious moral, legal, and social implications. When bribery influences decisions in school management, e.g., hiring unqualified teachers, admitting students who do not meet academic standards, and awarding contracts to incompetent suppliers – education quality suffers. Students may graduate without the necessary skills and knowledge, leading to long-term negative consequences for society. Sub-standard supplies or materials, e.g., learners’ chairs and desks, ICT equipment, etc., provided by incompetent suppliers may directly or indirectly affect the overall productivity of the school operations.

·         Disclosure and/or misuse of confidential information. In the field of education, the most important foundation is trust in building a safe and nurturing environment. School Administrators as Leaders are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. The protection of confidentiality of information entrusted to them is one of their key responsibilities. Any misuse of such information is not only unprofessional but it is immoral. Confidential information in schools may include medical and student records, disciplinary reports, personal matters involving learners and/or teachers, and sensitive communications. This data is shared with administrators under the assumption that it will be handled with utmost due diligence and integrity. When administrators breach this trust – whether through carelessness, gossip, or intentional misuse, a moral dilemma arises.

Such immoral acts can have serious consequences, such as emotional harm to students, creating conflict among the staff, damage to the reputation of the organization, and even lead to legal action under RA 10173. The Data Privacy Act of 2012 protects the rights of individuals over their personal information. There will be administrative and legal penalties for School Administrators who misuse or disclose confidential data. The commission of this act is a grave ethical and moral offence, for it destroys trust, violates professional standards, and results in significant harm to individuals and to the organization as well. As educators and leaders, administrators must serve as models of confidentiality and integrity, ensuring that the school remains a place of respect, justice, and safety for all.

The Pivotal Role of Normative Morality in Ethical Leadership

Normative morality is a code of conduct that would be accepted by all rational people under certain idealized conditions. According to the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (n.d.), normatively refers to a code of conduct that, given specified conditions, would be endorsed by all rational people. In the context of School Administration, normative morality plays a foundational role in shaping decisions, policies, and leadership practices. It ensures that school administrators act not only by rules but also in line with ethical standards that promote fairness, justice, and the well-being of all stakeholders – learners, teachers, parents, and the community.

·         Republic Act No. 6713. An act establishing a code of conduct and ethical standards for public officials and employees, to uphold the time-honoured principle of public office being a public trust,  granting incentives and rewards for exemplary service, enumerating prohibited acts and transactions and providing penalties for violations thereof, and for other purposes. School administrators regularly face decisions that impact people’s lives – from learners’ discipline to budget allocation.

·         The Department of Education’s Core Values. A morally upright school administrator integrates these values into every aspect of school governance. This includes ensuring inclusive education, respect for teachers’ rights, promoting environmental awareness, and nurturing students’ sense of patriotism & community responsibility. Normative morality closely aligns with DepEd core values: (1) Maka-Diyos – God-fearing; (2) Maka-Tao – Respect for others; (3) Makakalikasan – Respect for the environment; and (4) Makabansa – Love for the nation.

Relevant Laws and Memorandums/Orders in School Administration

·         Republic Act No. 3019. An act establishing anti-graft and corruption practices.

·         Republic Act No. 10173. An act protecting individual personal information in information and communications systems in the government and the private sector, creating for this purpose a national privacy commission, and for other purposes.

·         DepEd Order No. 83, s. 2012. Implementing Guidelines on the Revised School-Based Management (SBM) Framework, Assessment Process and Tool (APAT).

·         DepEd Order No. 77, s. 2022. Creation of Anti-Corruption Committees in the Central, Regional, and Schools Division Offices of the Department of Education.

·         DepEd Memorandum No. 061, s. 2024. Reiteration of fair and transparent bidding process and warning against corrupt practices.

Conclusion

Ethical leadership is at the core of effective School-based Administration. Leaders must have integrity, fairness, and a strong sense of moral responsibility. In schools, ethical leaders are not just managers – they are role models who shape values, inspire trust, and ensure that all decisions are aligned with the core purpose of education: to develop learners who are academically competent and morally upright. By leading with integrity and moral purpose, School Administrators can transform schools into pillars of both education and ethical-centered institutions.

References

Baron, J. V. & Bello, B. T. (2022). Ethical Dilemmas of School Administrators: The Case of Buayan District, Division of General Santos City. Global Scientific Journal. 10(4). Retrieved from https://www.globalscientificjournal.com/researchpaper/

Department of Education. (2012). DepEd Order No. 83, s. 2012. Implementing Guidelines on the Revised School-Based Management (SBM) Framework, Assessment Process and Tool (APAT). Retrieved from https://www.deped.gov.ph

Department of Education. (2022). DepEd Order No. 77, s. 2022. Creation of Anti-Corruption Committees in the Central, Regional, and Schools Division Offices of the Department of Education. Retrieved from https://www.deped.gov.ph

Department of Education. (2024). DepEd Memorandum No. 061, s. 2024. Reiteration of fair and transparent bidding process and warning against corrupt practices. Retrieved from https://www.deped.gov.ph

Mortari, L. & Tomba, B. (2019). The Moral Dilemma of Italian Principals. New Trends and Issues Proceedings on Humanities and Social Sciences. 6(7):12-18. https://doi.org/ 10.18844/prosoc.v6i7.4505

Republic Act No. 6713. (1989). Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. Retrieved from https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph

Republic Act No. 9155. (2001). Governance of Basic Education Act of 2001. Retrieved from https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph

Republic Act No. 10173. (2012). Data Privacy Act of 2012. Retrieved from https://privacy.gov.ph/data-privacy-act

Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (n.d.). The Definition of Morality. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/morality-definition/

 

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