This research paper examines school governance cultures and teacher opinions on professional development (PD), workload, and school culture in Philippine basic education settings. School leaders identified positive practices such as shared governance and data-driven decision-making but face challenges like student dropout and inadequate infrastructure. Teachers reported positive PD experiences but cited cost and lack of time due to heavy workload as significant barriers. Maintaining classroom discipline is a major source of teacher stress, though most enjoy their job and feel teaching’s advantages outweigh disadvantages. Teachers prioritized improving salaries, reducing administrative load, and reducing class sizes with budget increases. Teachers generally perceive their school culture and organizational climate positively, viewing PD barriers largely as structural issues beyond the school’s immediate control. The study suggests enhancing PD in classroom management and digital technology and addressing workload to support teachers.
