ISSN: 2782-893X
eISSN: 2799-0664
ISSN: 2782- 893X
——This research used qualitative research methodologies to explore the lived experiences of Grade 12 senior high school students at Quezon National High School in writing research papers. The students were expected to be competent in writing research papers because they had already finished the Practical Research 1 subject during Grade 11. However, based on a research comprehensive assessment, they had a mean percentage score (MPS) of 33.89%, which means their mastery level was low. Furthermore, the performance task assessment using the rubric in writing research papers, almost all the students had a score ranging from 50-59 out of 80, which had a descriptive interpretation of “needs improvement.” Through phenomenology, the study involved five (5) Grade 12 Senior High School informants in Quezon National High School handled by the researcher. Purposive and convenience sampling were used. Unstructured interviews with probing questions were conducted. The responses were analyzed using Van Manen’s approach with thematic analysis. Validity was done through member-checking with the informants. Through in-depth interviews, results revealed two overarching themes: “Academic Challenges and Collaborative Constraints” and “Personal Barriers to Academic Success.” Within the Academic Challenges theme, deficiencies in English skills, reflecting self-doubt, struggles in verbal expression, and difficulties in paraphrasing, crafting the Review of Related Literature (RRL), lack of guidance, uncooperative group dynamics, and the overwhelming workload from other subjects, and incompetent teachers were expressed. The Personal Barriers theme revealed challenges in balancing personal obligations and family issues with academic demands. Family problems, financial constraints, mental health struggles, insufficient resources, and time constraints were also stated. In conclusion, this study reveals the importance of a holistic approach to address interconnected student challenges. Recommendations include improved teacher training, fostering collaborative learning environments, enhancing resource accessibility, balancing academic workloads, establishing holistic support systems, and implementing effective time management strategies. Keywords: Research writing; senior high school; research challenges; holistic approach