Leading the Herd: The Perceived Leadership Styles of the Center Directors of Philippine Carabao Center in Mindanao

This study investigated the perceived leadership styles of Center Directors at DA-PCC regional centers in Mindanao namely: DA-PCC at University of Southern Mindanao (DA-PCC at USM) in Kabacan, Cotabato; DA-PCC at Central Mindanao University (DA-PCC at CMU) in Musuan, Bukidnon; and DA-PCC at Mindanao Livestock Production Center (DA-PCC at MLPC) in Kalawit, Zamboanga del Norte. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, the study involved all permanent employees from various DA-PCC centers in Mindanao who voluntarily participated through a researcher-made survey questionnaire. Results revealed that the majority of respondents were male (68%), aged 45 and above (79%), and had achieved college-level education or higher (68%). These demographics indicated a mature and experienced workforce. Findings showed that employees perceived their Center Directors to predominantly exhibit laissez-faire leadership style (Mean=3.56), closely followed by participative leadership style (Mean=3.54) and authoritarian leadership style (Mean=3.46). These leadership approaches were found to have a significant positive relationship with employees’ levels of commitment and confidence (p-value=0.002), as they fostered trust, respect, and a sense of value among staff members. Despite the prevalence of positive leadership traits, some inconsistencies in leadership practices were noted. These included unclear communication and limited involvement in decision-making processes, which were observed to affect employee morale and engagement in certain instances.