123, SMILE!: Workplace Happiness of Hotel Employees in Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11594/ijmaber.07.10.22Keywords:
workplace happiness, hotel employees, motivation, work relationships, rewards, proper training, hospitality industryAbstract
This study assessed workplace happiness and work motivation among hotel employees in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) using a convergent-parallel mixed-methods design. Sixty-five rank-and-file employees from selected hotels completed a structured questionnaire measuring rewards, proper training, and work relationships, together with open-ended questions on sources of happiness, workplace challenges, and improvement strategies. Quantitative data were summarized using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and standard deviation. Mann-Whitney U tests were used for two-group comparisons, while Kruskal-Wallis H tests were used for profile variables with more than two categories; qualitative responses were analyzed thematically. Work relationships received the highest rating (M = 3.88, SD = 0.21), followed by proper training (M = 3.73, SD = 0.27) and rewards (M = 3.61, SD = 0.26). Motivation scores did not differ significantly by sex, type of work, monthly income, or educational attainment. Employment status, however, was significantly associated with proper-training ratings (U = 339, p = 0.031). Qualitative findings emphasized guest interaction and service, teamwork and supportive relationships, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Integrating both strands indicates that workplace happiness in SBFZ hotels is strongly relational and is reinforced by equitable access to training, recognition, communication, and supportive work environments.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Rudyl G. Casamorin, Jelander P. Galarretta, Bianca P. Gonzalez, Jan Nicole A. Raymundo, Clariza Mae O. Sison, Rhia May C. Abrajano, Ronel S. de Guzman
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