SUSTAINING STUDENT LEADERSHIP: CHALLENGES AND MOTIVATIONAL MECHANISMS AMONG SUPREME SECONDARY LEARNER GOVERNMENT OFFICERS IN A PHILIPPINE PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Student governance serves as a vital platform for leadership development, participatory engagement, and democratic practice within educational institutions. Despite institutional support, student leaders frequently encounter pressures that challenge their motivation and sustained commitment. This study examined the challenges experienced by Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG) officers at Naguilian National High School and identified mechanisms that reinforce their leadership engagement. Using a convergent mixed-methods design, all 21 SSLG officers participated through a validated researcher-developed instrument. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency distributions, weighted means, and ranking, while qualitative responses were examined through thematic analysis. Findings reveal that adviser supervision, peer collaboration, and structured recognition significantly strengthen leadership motivation. Although balancing academic and organizational responsibilities presents moderate strain, it does not significantly impair academic performance. External factors such as financial limitations and family expectations exert minimal influence. Officers strongly recommend institutionalized mentoring systems, enhanced leadership development programs, structured recognition frameworks, and adequate logistical support. The study underscores that sustained student leadership effectiveness is anchored in institutional backing, collaborative culture, and intrinsic motivational drivers.