Exploring the role of social entrepreneurship in promoting ethical business practices among Taguig City University students

Social entrepreneurship and ethical business practice are increasingly recognized as twin pillars of sustainable, inclusive economic development—yet few studies examine their relationship among future business professionals in Philippine higher education. This study assessed awareness of social entrepreneurship, commitment to ethical business standards, and their association among 115 third and fourth year BSOA and fourth year BS Entrepreneurship students at Taguig City University. Respondents were purposively sampled based on relevant coursework to ensure validity. Employing a quantitative correlational design, a validated four-point Likert scale survey measured both constructs; analysis used descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Overall social entrepreneurship awareness was Strongly Aware (M = 3.37), led by Stakeholder Awareness (M = 3.65) and Ethical Intentions (M = 3.46). Role Models scored lowest (M = 3.00, interpreted as Aware), indicating students value integrity yet do not actively seek mentorship or external examples. Ethical business practices rated highly overall (M = 3.75, Strongly Aware), with General Ethical Practices highest (M = 3.82), followed by Transparency (M = 3.75), Accountability (M = 3.73), and Social Responsibility (M = 3.68). A strong, positive, highly significant relationship emerged between the two variables (r = .742, p < .01): deeper social entrepreneurship awareness corresponds to stronger ethical commitment. Ethical Intentions and Stakeholder Awareness showed the strongest links; Role Models, while positively correlated, were the weakest predictor. Results confirm students hold a principled, values centered business foundation; however, mentorship engagement and community focused practice remain less developed. Integrating social entrepreneurship frameworks, establishing structured mentorship, and expanding community linked experiential learning will nurture a holistic, practice ready generation of ethical and socially responsible professionals.