Empowering Communities Through Corporate Social Responsibility: Supporting Micro Enterprises for Livelihood Sustainability Basis for Community Development Programs

Abstract

This study examined the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in empowering communities and sustaining livelihoods in Metro Manila. Specifically, it assessed the effectiveness of CSR initiatives in terms of environment, human resources, workplace, and community development; analyzed CSR’s contribution to livelihood sustainability across poverty reduction, skills development, access to resources, social inclusion, sustainable development, and empowerment; and determined the relationship between CSR effectiveness and livelihood sustainability. A descriptive–correlational quantitative design was employed, with data gathered from 308 respondents consisting of micro-enterprise managers/owners, barangay officials, and residents. Data were collected using a validated researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation. Findings revealed that CSR programs were rated “effective” by residents but only “moderately effective” by barangay officials, with community development as the strongest domain and human resources the weakest. CSR was found to have a “moderate to high contribution” to livelihood sustainability, with empowerment and sustainable development rated highest. A very strong positive correlation (r = .887, p < .001) was established between CSR effectiveness and livelihood sustainability, confirming that well-implemented CSR directly enhances community resilience and long-term socio-economic stability. The study concludes that CSR is not merely philanthropic but a strategic driver of sustainable development. It recommends integrating multi-year capacity-building, inclusive participation, and partnerships between enterprises, local governments, and civil society to maximize CSR’s long-term impact.