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2025-12-15
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Copyright (c) 2025 Mary Anne M. Polestina, Joshua P. Canlas, Donabelle D. Mongao, Kenneth F. Delapuerta, Anecito G. Ganancial, Ma. Celestial M. Acha, Precious D. Derequito, Rico D. Habagat, Lovely L. Subibe, Salita D. Dimzon, Jason V. Chavez

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How to Cite
Leading with Emotion: Emotional Intelligence and Its Influence on Leadership Effectiveness among School Leaders in Higher Education
Mary Anne M. Polestina
Department of Public Administration, College of Public Affairs, Mindanao State University-Buug 7009, Zamboanga Sibugay, Philippines
Joshua P. Canlas
College of Education and Liberal Arts, Adamson University, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines
Donabelle D. Mongao
College of Education, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology-Dumangas Campus, Dumangas 5006, Iloilo, Philippines
Kenneth F. Delapuerta
College of Education, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology-Dumangas Campus, Dumangas 5006, Iloilo, Philippines
Anecito G. Ganancial
College of Education, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology-Dumangas Campus, Dumangas 5006, Iloilo, Philippines
Ma. Celestial M. Acha
College of Education, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology-Dumangas Campus, Dumangas 5006, Iloilo, Philippines
Precious D. Derequito
Sulangan Elementary School, Department of Education- District of Dumangas I, Dumangas, Iloilo Philippines 5006
Rico D. Habagat
Bacay Elementary School, Department of Education-Dumangas, Dumangas 5006, Iloilo, Philippines
Lovely L. Subibe
Dumangas National High School, Department of Education-Dumangas, Dumangas 5006, Iloilo, Philippines
Salita D. Dimzon
College of Education, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology-Dumangas Campus, Dumangas 5006, Iloilo, Philippines
Jason V. Chavez
School of Business Administration, Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University, Zamboanga City 7000, Philippines
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/esp.v10i12.3914
Keywords: Adaptability; Emotional Intelligence; Performance; Team Dynamics; Team Reflexivity
Abstract
This qualitative study explores the role of emotional intelligence (EI) in shaping leadership effectiveness among school leaders in higher education within the Zamboanga Peninsula and Western Visayas, Philippines. While much of the existing literature centers on EI in basic education and corporate settings, this research addresses a critical gap by focusing on how EI is understood, applied, and perceived by leaders within the higher education context. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 16 school leaders selected through purposive sampling, the study reveals that emotional intelligence is not merely a personal trait but a strategic leadership asset. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify core patterns in leadership behavior. Participants highlighted self-awareness, emotional regulation, and empathy as essential competencies for effective decision-making, conflict resolution, and relationship-building. Findings indicate that emotionally intelligent leadership fosters psychological safety, strengthens organizational culture, and supports resilience in times of crisis. This study underscored the importance of integrating EI into leadership preparation programs as a vital response to the evolving demands of educational leadership.
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