Affiliations:
Graduate School, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Cabanatuan City, Philippines
The aim of this study was to examine teacher indebtedness, referred to as the “credutrap,” and its effects on the job performance of public-school teachers in Nueva Ecija, Philippines. Using a convergent parallel mixed-methods approach, the study analyzed survey data from 150 teachers and complemented the results with focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The findings showed that most teachers depend mainly on government-backed lending institutions, followed by private banks and informal lenders, which often results in long-term debt cycles. Correlation analysis identified significant relationships between indebtedness and job performance, particularly increased stress, absenteeism, tardiness, and reduced preparation for teaching. Qualitative results further revealed the ongoing psychological pressure caused by debt, negative effects on instructional quality, risky financial practices, and the normalization of borrowing within the teaching profession, despite strong professional dedication. The study concludes that teacher indebtedness is not only a financial problem but also an ethical and systemic issue that requires comprehensive solutions. The proposed framework highlights the need for financial literacy education, school-based financial wellness programs, stronger regulation of lending practices, livelihood support, and professional development that raises awareness of the link between debt and professional responsibility. These measures are necessary to protect teacher well-being, improve educational equity, and support sustainable development in the education sector.
Teacher indebtedness, Job performance, Financial stress, Mixed-methods research, Public school teachers
https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2026.01.018
Sagnit, F. J. E. (2026). Teacher indebtedness in the digital era: A mixed-methods study of lending institutions and teacher performance in the Philippines. International Journal of Advanced and Applied Sciences, 13(1), 174–182. https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2026.01.018