Smart Minds, Active Citizens: Exploring the Relationship Between Functional Literacy and Civic Responsibility among College Students
Carl Bryan Ceballos, Rj Ducal, Feibe Kyle Eleria, Christia Mae Gulay, Mary Alyanna Joy Remo, Marvin Lofranco
Received: 22 April 2026; Revised: 25 May 2026; Accepted: 28 May 2026; Published: 30 May 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.66074/GEO33V55B4
Abstract
Functional literacy is essential for responsible citizenship because it enables individuals to understand civic information, interpret policies, and participate effectively in community life. In the Philippines, the gap between basic and functional literacy indicates that many individuals struggle to apply reading and comprehension skills in real-life civic situations. This study examined the relationship between functional literacy and civic responsibility among college students in UM Panabo College, anchored in SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Using a descriptive-correlational design with 100 students, results showed high levels of functional literacy (M = 4.35, SD = 0.50) and civic responsibility (M = 4.46, SD = 0.53). A strong positive correlation was observed (r = 0.803, p = 0.000), indicating that functional literacy is significantly related to civic responsibility. However, due to reliance on self-reported questionnaires and a single-institution sample, causality cannot be inferred. Future studies should employ objective literacy assessments, larger and more diverse samples, and longitudinal or intervention-based designs.
Keywords: civic engagement, civic responsibility, college students, functional literacy, higher education
Corresponding Author Information: University of Mindanao Panabo College, Philippines; mlofranco@umindanao.edu.ph
Volume 2, Issue 2, June 2026