ISSN: 2782-893X
eISSN: 2799-0664
ISSN: 2782- 893X
—— This study examined the determinants of inter-organizational collaborative capacity of National Government Agencies (NGAs) in Region XII and investigated how internal communication, organizational trust, and the political skills of unit heads shape this capacity. Grounded in collaborative governance theory, the research employed a quantitative, descriptivecorrelational research design using multiple regression through a structural equation modelling approach by means of total enumeration of respondents from unit heads of five (5) national government agencies. Findings demonstrated that all variables, interorganizational collaborative capacity, internal communication, organizational trust and political skills were perceived at very high levels. The exogenous variables, Internal Communication, Organizational Trust, and Political Skills positively associated with the endogenous variable, Inter-organizational Collaborative Capacity. Among these, Organizational Trust emerged as the strongest predictor, showing significant and stable effects across all models. Model 3, based on fit indices, underscored the major influence of Organizational Trust on Collaborative Capacity. The study highlighted the importance of cultivating transparent communication systems, trust-building mechanisms, and politically skilled leadership within NGAs to strengthen collaborative governance in Region XII. This research advocates for competency-based leadership development, inclusive organizational practices, and sustainable governance mechanisms in improving public service delivery and strengthening citizens’ trust and confidence in government institutions. Keywords: Inter-organizational Collaborative Capacity, Internal Communication, Organizational Trust, Political Skills, Multivariate Approach, Public Administration, National government agencies, Region XII