Abstract

The implementation of the K to 12 Program under Republic Act 10533 aimed to prepare Senior High School (SHS) graduates for higher education, employment, or entrepreneurship. Barangay Bagong Silangan in Quezon City has a large youth population and socioeconomically diverse household where local conditions such as household income, family responsibilities, access to higher education, and employment opportunities may influence graduates’ decisions to enter the workforce immediately. The study utilized a descriptive–correlational research design with a quantitative approach. Forty-seven (47) Senior High School graduates who chose employment rather than higher education participated in the study and were selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered using a researcher-made questionnaire consisting of demographic items and statements measuring financial constraints, family pressure, academic difficulties, and challenges encountered in employment. Most respondents were aged 19–24 (74%), predominantly male (64%), mostly from the ABM strand, and from households earning below PHP 13,000 monthly. Financial constraints were the most influential factor in choosing employment over higher education (composite mean = 2.98), followed by family pressure (2.77) and academic difficulties (2.67). Limited tuition funds, the need to support family income, and feelings of academic unpreparedness discouraged college enrollment. The most common employment challenge was accepting low-paying jobs due to the lack of a college degree. The results imply that senior high school graduates' post-secondary decisions are significantly influenced by financial constraints. It may be attainable to assist graduates in making well-informed decisions about further education and employment by addressing financial obstacles and offering academic and career guidance.