Corporate Social Responsibility and Operational Performance among Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in San Jose, Batangas

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become an important managerial concern for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly because responsible business conduct is increasingly associated with efficiency, stakeholder trust, compliance, and long-term sustainability. This study examined the relationship between CSR and operational performance among SMEs in the Municipality of San Jose, Batangas. A descriptive-correlational quantitative design was used. Data were gathered from 340 respondents representing registered small and medium-sized enterprises through a researcher-made survey questionnaire. CSR was measured in terms of ethical, environmental, legal, and philanthropic responsibilities, while operational performance was assessed through process efficiency and quality, stakeholder operations management, and innovation and adaptability. Weighted mean and Spearman rank-order correlation were used in the analysis, with computations performed using SPSS version 28. Findings showed that respondents strongly agreed that CSR practices were evident, with ethical and legal responsibility obtaining the highest ratings. Operational performance was also rated highly, particularly in process efficiency and quality, while stakeholder operations management received a comparatively lower rating of Agree. Correlation results showed that CSR dimensions were generally associated with process efficiency and quality and innovation and adaptability. However, stakeholder operations management was significantly associated only with ethical responsibility. The study indicates that CSR contributes most clearly to internal process discipline and adaptive capability, while stakeholder integration remains a key area for managerial improvement.