Motivational Factors Influencing Civilian Volunteers to Enlist in the Philippine Army

Abstract

Soldiers are considered as the most valuable asset of the Army. They must be well motivated and be able to perform given tasks despite the hardship and danger of losing their lives. In doing this study, the motivations of civilian volunteers and how these influence them in enlisting in the Philippine Army are determined by utilizing survey questionnaire complimented with interview of subject matter experts. Primary basis is the Hierarchy of Needs theory by Maslow centered on the graduated needs of individuals to be motivated to work. It turns out that Esteem and Self-Actualization needs such as service and patriotism have more influence to them in joining the Army than the Physiological Needs like pay, food, clothing and shelter. However, it was also found out that on specific motivators the income (pay and allowances) is what influence most civilian volunteers followed closely by service to country and people. The results in general presented positive outlook on volunteers and an opportunity for the Army of having soldiers who are willing to serve the country and the Filipino people even if some basic physiological needs are barely lacking.  Keywords: Motivation, volunteers, needs, civilians, soldiers, service