Determinants of Morale Towards Retention Intention among Philippine Army Reservists in Region IV-A

Reservists play a crucial role in national security and disaster response, yet the sustainability of a resilient reserve force depends heavily on their morale and willingness to remain in service. Recognizing the importance of these factors, this study investigates the determinants of morale and their subsequent impact on retention intention among Army Reservists in Region IV-A of the Philippines. Guided by previous research emphasizing leadership quality, training opportunities, deployment experiences, cohesion, and support systems as key influencers of morale. This study adopts a descriptive correlational design to explore these variables systematically. A total of 419 active reservists from five Citizen's Defense Centers responded in the study. Data collection employed a validated questionnaire demonstrating high reliability (Cronbach's alpha between 0.894 and 0.934). The findings reveal that the overall morale of the reserve force is high, with an average composite score of 5.06 on a 6-point scale. Specifically, the sub-variables of training and skill development (mean = 5.07), support systems (mean = 5.09), camaraderie (mean = 5.15), leadership (mean = 5.04), deployment frequency and duration (mean = 5.06), and cohesion and teamwork (mean = 5.15) all received high ratings, indicating strong perceptions in these areas. Furthermore, the study found a statistically significant positive relationship between morale and retention intention (Spearman's rho = 0.366, p < 0.05). The mean score for retention intention was also high at 5.06, reflecting a clear motivation among reservists to continue their service commitments. These results underscore the importance of fostering high morale through strategic leadership development, comprehensive training programs tailored to civilian skills, well-balanced deployment schedules, and activities that strengthen unit cohesion. Based on these findings, the study recommends that military leadership prioritize the implementation of holistic programs aimed at enhancing these key determinants. Initiatives such as mentorship training, inclusive team-building activities, recognition of collective achievements, and support systems that address logistical, financial, and personal needs are vital to sustaining and increasing retention levels. Ultimately, this research affirms that maintaining high morale is essential not only for individual reservists' well-being but also for the operational readiness and stability of the reserve force as a whole.