ABSTRACT
This study investigated the determinants of motivation and retention intention among Philippine Army Reservists in Region IV-A, emphasizing the interplay of intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors. Employing a descriptive correlational design, data were collected from 419 reservists through a validated structured questionnaire, with reliability confirmed via high Cronbach’s alpha coefficients. Results indicated that patriotism, nationalism, and camaraderie (brotherhood/sisterhood) were the primary motivators, exerting a significant influence on retention intention. While recognition, awards, and financial incentives also contributed, their impact was comparatively moderate. The findings underscored the importance of a balanced approach that fostered a values-driven environment while enhancing financial support mechanisms. The study contributed to management scholarship by providing empirical evidence on volunteer motivation within military settings, highlighting strategic avenues for optimizing retention programs in national reserve forces.
Keywords: reservists’ motivation, patriotism and nationalism, brotherhood/sisterhood, recognition and awards, financial support and retention-intention
INTRODUCTION
The effective management and sustainability of military reserve forces are fundamental to national security and defense preparedness. Reserve personnel often balance dual roles as civilians and servicemembers, making their motivation and commitment vital for operational readiness and long-term retention. Understanding the multifaceted nature of motivation within this context is essential for developing strategic approaches that foster sustained service among reservists.
In the Philippine setting, the Army Reserve Force in Region IV-A embodies a critical component of the country's defense infrastructure. Despite its strategic importance, limited empirical research has been conducted to examine the specific determinants influencing reservists' motivation and their intention to remain in service. Existing literature underscores the significance of intrinsic motivators such as patriotism, nationalism, and camaraderie as powerful drivers of commitment. Concurrently, extrinsic factors, including financial incentives, recognition, and career development opportunities, also play a vital role in shaping retention outcomes.
Given the complex interplay between these motivators, it is imperative to empirically investigate their relative influence within the Philippine military reservist context. Such insights are invaluable for policymakers and military leaders seeking to enhance retention strategies, optimize resource allocation, and foster a resilient and motivated reserve force. This study aims to systematically explore and quantify the determinants of motivation and their relationship with retention intentions among Army Reservists in Region IV-A, contributing to the body of management research on volunteer motivation in military organizations.
Statement of the Problem
In order to maintain a strong and reliable reserve force, leaders needed to understand the reservists' intention to continue their service and implement methods that enhanced their overall commitment and satisfaction. By monitoring and addressing factors that impacted the intention to stay, the effectiveness and readiness of the reserve component could be improved. Despite the crucial role played by the Philippine Army Reservists in national defense, there was limited knowledge about the challenges, morale, motivation, and efficiency factors that influenced their service. To enhance the retention program for Philippine Army reservists in Region IV-A, the research aimed to tackle the following issues. Specifically, the study focused on the following inquiries:
1. What are the determinants that affect the level of motivation among Army Reservists in Region IV-A in terms of:
a. patriotism and nationalism;
b. brotherhood/sisterhood;
c. recognition and awards, and;
d. financial support?
2. What is the level of retention intention among Army Reservists in Region IV-A?
3. Is there a significant relationship between the level of morale and retention intention among Army Reservists in Region IV-A.
Review of Related Literature
The purpose of this research was to study the perceptions of Army Reservists who were mobilized in Region IV-A. A review of previous research and theories relevant to this study provided a foundation for understanding how reservists were affected by and adapted to a changing environment. This chapter was organized into two main sections: (1) Motivation of Reservists, and (2) Retention-Intention of the Reservist
see PDF attachment for more information