Relationship between Financial Literacy, Debt Management, and Financial Decision-Making among the Employees of BIR RDO 108 – Cotabato Province and BARMM Special Geographic Area

This study examined the relationship between financial literacy, debt management, and financial decision-making among employees of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue District Office 108 – Cotabato Province and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Special Geographic Area. The study used a quantitative descriptive-correlational design, with 63 respondents who answered a standardized questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale. The study analyzed data using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and exploratory multiple linear regression. Respondents reported very high levels of financial literacy (M = 4.50), debt management (M = 4.45), and financial decision-making (M = 4.40). Financial literacy and debt management were strongly and positively related (r = .887), as were financial literacy and financial decision-making (r = .845) and debt management and financial decision-making (r = .928), all at p < .001. The regression model explained 86.4% of the variance in financial decision-making. Debt management remained a statistically significant predictor when both variables were considered, while financial literacy did not show a significant unique contribution. The study shows that financial literacy and debt management are strongly associated with financial decision-making among the respondents, with debt management showing the strongest relationship. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening practical financial management skills, particularly savings, debt repayment, and awareness of financial risk. Workplace financial education programs may help employees develop more consistent financial practices.