Strengthening the Administrative Competencies of Second District Department of Education Leaders Through Professional Development Program

Abstract

The study was conducted to find out the level of competency of 122 administrative officers in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) 2nd District in Cagayan for the academic year 2025-2026. The study used a mixed-method explanatory sequential research design and descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation to evaluate competencies in planning and decision-making, leadership and communication, technological literacy, and organizational and resource management through an initial quantitative approach. Quantitative findings indicated that all skill categories were assessed as Proficient. Planning and decision-making obtained an overall mean of 3.136. The best-performing indicators were documenting and communicating plans properly (M=3.213), ensuring operational plans were aligned with organizational objectives (M=3.172), and measuring the effects of actions to enhance future plans (M=3.221). Incorporating key stakeholders in the planning procedures achieved the lowest mean (M = 3.041), yet it remained within the proficient level. The second step was to collect qualitative data to explain and verify the quantitative findings. These findings indicated that while respondents appreciated a structured planning process, they faced problems in stakeholder participation and collaborative decision-making, particularly in ensuring that all voices were heard and valued during the planning stages. The study results show that Administrative Officers are competent in all aspects; however, there is a need for improvement in participative planning techniques and advanced decision-making skills. The report proposes the creation and implementation of specific professional development programs that aim at filling the gaps and improving the administrative competencies and the overall performance of the organization.