Engagement and Corporate Social Responsibility of Hotel Employees in Bacolod City: A Mixed Method Study

Abstract: Human capital is a pivotal asset for sustaining competitiveness in the hospitality sector, where service quality is intrinsically linked to employee commitment and well-being. This study investigates the interplay between employee engagement and corporate social responsibility (CSR) within hotels in Bacolod City, Philippines. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach, the research employs a concurrent triangulation design, integrating quantitative surveys with 107 hotel employees from five hotels and qualitative interviews with three key stakeholders. The quantitative phase utilized a descriptive-comparative and descriptive-correlational design to assess engagement across dimensions such as belief in the job and organization, ability to succeed, collegial relations, professional development, support and recognition, and decision-making influence. Concurrently, CSR involvement was evaluated across environmental, employee welfare, community, guest relations, and government interaction domains. Results indicate exceptionally high levels of both employee engagement (M = 3.43, SD = 0.318) and CSR involvement (M = 3.41, SD = 0.358). Notably, a significant positive correlation (Spearman’s rho = 0.631, p = 0.001) was found between engagement and CSR, suggesting that robust CSR initiatives enhance employee commitment and satisfaction. Qualitative insights revealed four primary themes: management’s care and welfare, organizational commitment and responsibilities, essential workplace qualities and skills, and responsibility to external stakeholders, with sub-themes addressing regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing employee participation in decision-making, expanding professional development programs, and intensifying environmental and community-focused CSR initiatives. These strategies aim to bridge perception gaps, foster a motivated workforce, and align organizational practices with societal expectations. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of specific CSR activities on employee engagement to further refine strategic interventions. Keywords: Employee Engagement, Corporate Social Responsibility, Hospitality, Human Capital, Organizational Commitment, Sustainability