Thesis Draft
Thesis Draft
Submitted By:
Arch. Marla Shiela Joy C. Mendoza, uap
Student
Submitted To:
Dr. Guillermo Bernabe, Engr
Course Specialist
JULY 2023
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ABSTRACT
and delivery. An effective leader needs to have a strong technical background, experience,
beyond consideration of an individual’s biological sex, moreover, to consider what and how
gender relates to leadership with their vital roles; breaking the glass ceiling of men being the
dominated gender in the construction industry. This study aims to assess and evaluate the
leadership competencies of both male and female managers in construction projects. The
objective is to determine the effectivity and efficiency of each individual according to their
traits in executing planning works, controlling tasks and delegating resources. This
comprehensive evaluation will involve questionnaire surveys and interviews that will be
Firms and involving managerial technical positions in the industry. This study aims to make a
construction industry by presenting valuable insights that can drive positive change towards a
more inclusive and successful future for leadership in this thriving sector.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract.................................................................................................................................... i
Table of Contents......................................................................................................................ii
Introduction.................................................................................................................. 1
Theoretical Framework................................................................................................ 3
Hypotheses.................................................................................................................. 7
Foreign Literature...................................................................................................... 10
3 Methodology ............................................................................................................. 13
Instrumentation ......................................................................................................... 15
4 References ............................................................................................................... 19
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Chapter 1
Introduction
The Philippine construction industry plays a vital role in the country's economic growth, serving
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the construction industry's value grew by 12.2% year on
year (YoY) in Q3 2022, preceded by Y-o-Y growth of 19.5% in Q2 and 14.7% in Q1 2022. And
is expected to register an annual average growth of 7.3% from 2023 to 2026, supported by
As the industry continues to evolve amidst dynamic social and economic shifts, effective
discussions surrounding leadership in the Philippine construction sector often raise questions
about gender disparities and their impacts on leadership competencies and opportunities. The
gradual rise of women in the ranks of other industries in recent years cannot be ignored.
Women now hold 32% of top leadership positions, up from 31% in 2021. These include chief
executive officer and managing director, chief finance officer, chief marketing officer, chief
operations officer, chief marketing officer and human resources director roles. The increase
continues the linear growth plotted over recent years. In the last decade, we have seen the
proportion of female leaders grow by 11 percentage points, up from 21% in 2012. (Grant
Thorton, 2022).
While strides towards gender inclusion have been made in various industries, gender
disparities still persist within the construction sector, particularly in leadership positions. As
mentioned in 2019 report by the National Economic and Development Authority, less than 7
percent of women were employed in the construction industry, but did not provide data on
whether those women were employed in managerial or entry positions. Understanding the
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projects is essential to create an inclusive environment that promotes the development and
within the context of Philippine construction projects. It will encompass areas such as project
competencies through the lens of both male and female leaders, this research intends to
identify potential differences, similarities, and areas for improvement, thereby shedding light
on the specific challenges and strengths faced by each gender in leadership roles within
Theoretical Framework
Transformational leadership theory focuses on the qualities and behaviors of leaders that
inspire and motivate their subordinates towards achieving organizational goals. This theory
argues that regardless of gender, effective leaders possess qualities such as charisma, vision,
and the ability to inspire others. This theory supports the notion that gender equality in
The purpose of this study is to address the lack of a comprehensive evaluation of leadership
competencies of men and women in Philippine construction projects. Specifically, the research
1. How do the leadership competencies of men and women in different project scales
challenging environments?
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2. What are the potential differences, similarities, and areas for improvement in the
3. What are the challenges and strengths encountered by men and women in leadership
roles within construction projects, and how do these factors contribute to gender
disparities?
4. What are the best practices and strategies adopted by organizations that promote
industry?
understanding of the leadership competencies exhibited by men and women within small and
big scale construction projects. The results of this study will contribute to the development of
projects.
General Objective:
management.
To achieve this overarching goal, the study will pursue the following specific objectives:
2. Identify Differences and Similarities: Identify the potential differences, similarities, and
areas for improvement in the leadership competencies displayed by men and women
3. Explore Challenges and Strengths: Explore the challenges and strengths encountered
Investigate how these factors contribute to gender disparities in leadership and assess
organizations that promote gender diversity and inclusivity in leadership within the
environment.
practices, and initiatives that address gender disparities and support the advancement
The study will be quantitative in approach and will focus mainly on discussing the proficiency,
dynamics and its impact on leadership within this specific industry. Nevertheless, it is important
to acknowledge the limitations of this study, which include a focus solely on leadership
competencies of managerial technical positions and exclusion of other factors that may
Furthermore, the study will be limited to a specific geographical within the Philippine
construction sector. Despite these limitations, this research aims to shed light on gender
disparities and ultimately provide insights that can foster more inclusive and efficient
leadership practices in Philippine Construction Projects. The research sample will compose of
selective members from different levels of managerial ranks in Architectural & Engineering
Firms, Contractors and Professional Consultants. The primary data gathering method that will
be used in the study will be through first-hand information surveys and interviews. The
gathered data will be analyze using data decoding software. Verbatim quotes from
The significance of this study lies in its aim to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the
examining the specific leadership skills and qualities exhibited by individuals in this industry,
this research will not only contribute to the existing understanding of gender differences and
their impact on leadership but also shed light on the unique challenges faced by male and
female leaders in the construction sector. This study can potentially contribute to the
development of strategies and initiatives to promote gender equality and diversity in leadership
roles within the construction industry. Moreover, the findings of this research can be utilized
environments that value the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their gender, thereby
enhancing the overall effectiveness and success of construction projects in the Philippines.
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Hypotheses
identify any potential gender disparities that may exist within the industry. By examining the
competencies exhibited by male and female leaders, we can shed light on the effectiveness
of their leadership styles, decision-making processes, conflict resolution skills, and ability to
effectively manage teams. Through this research, we seek to contribute valuable insights to
leadership landscape that harnesses the strengths and perspectives of both men and women
Chapter 2
This chapter presents related literature and studies that provide insights on leadership, gender
perspective & disparities, and role of male and female managers in the construction industry
project delivery & completion which also serves as the researcher's guide in the development
of this study.
Local Literature
This research conducted by The Makati Business Club in partnership with the Philippine
leadership positions in the corporate sector in the Philippines. According to a global survey,
firms with 30% female leaders can expect to see a significant increase in their net margin
compared to those without female leaders. This finding is reinforced by a recent academic
research in the Philippines, which highlights that publicly listed firms with senior female
executives tend to be larger in size and more profitable than those without. Despite these
positive impacts, the number of women in top management roles remains low, with a decline
observed as women progress to higher positions from middle to senior management. The
phenomena of the "glass ceiling" and the "leaking pipeline" have been cited to explain these
disparities. Although the Philippines ranks high globally in terms of gender equality, with one
of the highest percentages of women in the workforce and in top leadership positions, the
climb remains slow and challenging for women employees. While progress has been made in
reducing the gender gap in the labor force and increasing women's access to education, health
predominantly male-dominated. However, there has been some narrowing of the gender pay
gap, with women in certain industries earning higher salaries compared to their male
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counterparts. Despite these advancements, significant pay gaps still exist in occupations such
Gender diversity in the C-suite of Philippine companies is a complex issue that cannot be
solved with one simple solution. It is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural practices
ingrained in the minds of individuals and present in government and private sectors. Personal
choices, family expectations, and cultural norms perpetuate gender biases and hinder
women's access to opportunities. Stakeholders, particularly the private sector, must be aware
of the socio-cultural aspects that impede women's progress and provide equal opportunities.
Women should not be criticized or punished for prioritizing their careers and should be given
the chance to increase their stake and take up leadership roles. By recognizing and valuing
women's contributions, companies can improve performance, promote gender equality, and
foster inclusivity. It is also essential for business leaders to understand the underlying reasons
for gender diversity and prioritize personal development and staff retention programs.
Philippine corporations should design comprehensive programs that address the changing
needs of men and women in balancing family and career responsibilities. It is important for
company leaders to view these initiatives as long-term investments that benefit both the
company and its employees. Overall, the research sheds light on the need for greater gender
Reference: Makati Business Club (2019). Addressing the Leaking Pipeline: Factors that affect
leadership participation and aspiration of men and women middle managers in the Philippines.
Women on Top: Diversity in Gender and Education Profiles of Top Management and Board
The research paper titled "Women on Top: Diversity in Gender and Education Profiles of Top
Management and Board of Directors of Philippine Publicly Traded Firms" addresses the
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on the Philippines. This study aims to fill a gap in the existing literature on corporate
governance in the Philippines by analyzing data from approximately 250 PSE-listed firms. The
research examines the composition and trends of gender diversity among CEOs, boards, and
top management teams in Philippine publicly traded firms over a five-year interval (2003, 2008,
2013) and for the most recent year (2014). Additionally, the educational profile of CEOs in
PSE-listed firms is explored. The findings of the study confirm the existence of a gender gap
in the governing and managing bodies of Philippine public firms. However, there is evidence
Furthermore, the research highlights that most CEOs in PSE-listed firms share a common
educational background, as they have obtained undergraduate and graduate degrees from
Overall, the research contributes to the understanding of gender diversity in the corporate
sector in the Philippines and provides valuable insights into the education profiles of CEOs in
PSE-listed firms. This information could be instrumental in initiating policy changes and
interventions that promote gender equality and diversity in the corporate world. This study
Reference: Unite, A., Sullivan, M., & Shi, A. (2015) Women on Top: Diversity in Gender and
Education Profiles of Top Management and Board of Directors of Philippine Publicly Traded
Firms
Foreign Literature
Leadership traits of Construction Project Managers’ and their impact on project outcome
(CPMs) and their impact on project outcomes, conducted by Samuel Ekung in 2014, sheds
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light on the critical role of effective leadership in the construction industry. Ekung's study
that there is a need for effective leadership in the management of projects. Despite some
study in the area of project management leadership, the extent to which leadership traits
influence project outcome is not clear, nor is the relevant leadership traits apparent. To bridge
this gap, the study used a descriptive-inferential research method to determine whether a
relationship exist between successful project outcome and construction project manager’s
literature and practice were tested for preponderance. Fourteen are relevant to construction
management, and supported hypothesis test. Ekung's research offers valuable insights to
detremine the relationship between leadership traits and project outcome. Three element of
project management effectiveness were tested against leadership traits. The relevant
styles, intelligent, forward looking, sociable and adaptability, honesty & integrity, and problem-
solving ability. It is therefore inferred that, leaders who practice or exhibit these traits would be
more effective in achieving positive results in each of the factors that measures successful
project outcomes. However, no single leadership trait is suitable in all project circumstance,
thus the need for flexibility. Construction project managers should always attempt to shift
intuitively between the various leadership traits, according to the people they lead and the
Reference: Ekung, S. (2024). Leadership traits of Construction Project Managers’ and their
This review of related literature on leadership in the construction industry, with a focus on a
interviews, to gain insights from both male and female managers within the construction
industry who possess the authority to shape their organizations' strategic direction. By doing
so, the study aims to identify and understand the potential barriers that hinder women's access
The findings of this analysis shed light on the significance of various forms of access and
factors. These factors subsequently impact the attitudes of recruiters towards male and female
candidates. Ultimately, the research reveals that the construction industry remains
Additionally, the prevalent time management model within organizations acts as a variable
that further obstructs the promotion of women in achieving effective gender equality.
In conclusion, this literature review highlights the crucial need for further examination of gender
dynamics within the construction industry. The findings emphasize the existence of significant
challenges that hinder women from assuming leadership roles, and consequently call for the
development and implementation of strategies that promote equal opportunities and support
the advancement of women within this sector. Recognizing and addressing these barriers will
not only contribute to the fulfillment of gender equality objectives but also foster a more diverse
and inclusive construction industry. The breaking of the glass ceiling occurs unconsciously
through the sacrifice, effort and perseverance of the women who seek managerial
responsibility.
Reference: Arenas-Molina, M.T., Rogriguez, J.M., & Dominguez, T.N (2015-2016) Leadership
Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY
Research Design
formed with words, reporting detailed views of informants, and conducted in a natural setting.
It uses in-depth studies of small groups of people to guide and support the construction of
hypotheses. The results of qualitative research are descriptive rather than predictive.
experiences and generate rich, descriptive data. It often employs methods such as interviews,
observations, and focus groups to collect information, enabling researchers to dive into the
This study will conduct in-depth interviews to different level of managerial technical positions
involved in the Philippine Construction projects and will gather survey from direct partakers of
the business. The questionnaires will be self-administered and distributed by the researcher.
A thorough review of several related case study, articles and journals will also take place
This design was chosen to meet the objectives of the study which is to conduct a
Generation Method
For collection of primary data for this research work survey and observation methods will be
used. Experimental method is not found suitable for this study because the topic will require
Survey is used to collect quantitative information about items in a population. Surveys are
used in different areas for collecting the data even in public and private sectors. A survey may
be conducted in the field by the researcher. The respondents are contacted by the research
person personally, telephonically or through mail. This method takes a lot of time, efforts and
money but the data collected are of high accuracy, current and relevant to the topic. When the
researcher-administered survey. When the questions are administered by the respondent, the
collecting information from a large number of respondents. Very large samples are possible.
Statistical techniques can be used to determine validity, reliability, and statistical significance.
Surveys are flexible in the sense that a wide range of information can be collected. They can
be used to study attitudes, values, beliefs, and past behaviors. Because they are standardized,
they are relatively free from several types of errors. There is an economy in data collection
due to the focus provided by standardized questions. Only questions of interest to the
Observation is a complex research method because it often requires the researcher to play a
number of roles and to use a number of techniques; including her/his five senses, to collect
data. The observer puts himself in the actual situation and watch carefully. On the basis of his
knowledge, skills and experience she collects the data without contacting the respondents.
The results of observation entirely depend on the talents of the researcher. Observation
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methods have been developed with the objective of 'observing people in their natural setting
- as they go about their everyday lives. Observation methods can overcome some of the
criticisms of quantitative research methods (Validity, bias etc.) and can be useful when its
subject can't provide information, or can only provide inaccurate information. Out of available
methods for collecting primary data, survey and observation methods have been found
suitable for the topic study. These have fulfilled the requirements for data collection properly.
Sources of Data
For the study purpose both primary and secondary data will be used. The primary data will
be coming from different genders and ranks of managerial technical positions involved in
Construction Managers, and Consultants. The secondary data collected will be from case
studies, scholar articles and journals. The primary and secondary data will be collected to
cover every aspect of the study. The primary data will show the accurate portrayal and account
of the personal experiences, behaviour, opinions and knowledge of these individuals. The
secondary data will provide conclusive observation from previous related studies to the effect
of the subject in different aspects. These data having different merits and demerits will serves
Instrumentation
(a) Questionnaire
Questionnaire is a set of questions has been prepared to ask a number of questions and
collect answers from respondents relating to the research topic. A number of questions usually
in printed or electronic form are to be answered by the individuals. The forms often have blank
spaces in which the answers can be written. Sets of such forms are distributed to groups and
the answers are collected relating to research topic. It is a series of questions asked to
individuals to obtain statistically useful information about a given topic. When properly
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statements can be made about specific groups or people or entire populations. Inappropriate
questions, incorrect ordering of questions, incorrect scaling, or bad questionnaire format can
make the survey valueless, as it may not accurately reflect the views and opinions of the
participants. A useful method for checking a questionnaire and making sure it is accurately
capturing the intended information is to pretest among a smaller subset of target respondents.
information. It serves four basic purposes: to (1) collect the appropriate data, (2) make data
comparable and amenable to analysis, (3) minimize bias in formulating and asking question,
and (4) to make questions engaging and varied. For our study purpose a set of questions will
be prepared to collect information relating to the topic of the study. In this study a structured
questionnaire will be used with different types of questions such as closed ended and open
ended. Special case has been taken to select the scales for the questions for collection of
Telephone and other devices can be used for collecting data verbally and written on fax from
respondents located away from the researcher and having these facilities plus the researcher
having their contact numbers. Use of interviewers encourages sample persons to respond,
answering respondents' questions. It is fairly cost efficient, depending on local call charge
structure. It is good for large national respondents and gives wider coverage.
(c) Mail
For collection of data from the respondents who are located at a long distance and/ or have a
very hectic schedule, they can be contacted through mailed questionnaires. It may be handed
to the respondents or mailed to them, but in all cases they are returned to the researcher via
mail. The cost involved is very less but no clarification can be given to the respondents if
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required. Respondents can answer at their own convenience. The respondents cannot be
biased by the researchers and the detail information can be collected for the research purpose.
(d) Interview
In this method the interviewer personally meets the informants and asks necessary questions
carried by the researcher and questions are also asked according to that. The interviewer
efficiently collects the data from the informants by cross examining them. The interviewer must
be very efficient and tactful to get the accurate and relevant data from the informants.
Ethical Consideration
The conducting of research requires not only expertise and diligence, but also honesty and
integrity. This is done to recognise and protect the rights of human subjects. To render the
study ethical, the rights to self- determination, anonymity, confidentiality and informed consent
were observed. Written and Verbal permissions will be obtained from necessary agencies,
companies and individuals. Subjects’ consent will be asked before they completed the
questionnaires. The subjects will be informed of their rights to voluntarily consent or decline
to participate, and to withdraw participation at any time without penalty. They will be informed
about the purpose of the study, the procedures that would be used to collect the data, and
Anonymity will be ensured by not disclosing any name on the questionnaire and research
reports and detaching the written consent from the questionnaire. No identifying information
will be entered onto the questionnaires, and questionnaires will only be numbered after data
is collected.
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The ethical principle of self-determination will also be maintained. Subjects will be treated as
autonomous agents by informing them about the study and allowing them to voluntarily choose
to participate or not. Information about the researcher will be provided as well, in the event of
research. Dishonest conduct includes manipulation of design and methods, and retention or
manipulation of data (Brink 1996:47). The researcher will avoid any form of dishonesty by
recording truthfully the answers of those subjects who could not read or write. Manipulation of
data will not occur as the supervisor and an independent statistician will enter the data from
The statistician will produce the results independently of the researcher to avoid subjective
collaboration. The open-ended questions which will be analyzed by the researcher will also
REFERENCES
Grant Thorton, (2022). Women in Business 2022, Opening the doors to diverse talent.
Makati Business Club (2019). Addressing the Leaking Pipeline: Factors that affect leadership
participation and aspiration of men and women middle managers in the Philippines.
Unite, A., Sullivan, M., & Shi, A. (2015) Women on Top: Diversity in Gender and Education
Firms.
Ekung, S. (2024). Leadership traits of Construction Project Managers’ and their impact on
project outcome.