Dynamics of Local Governance of Sto. Domingo, Albay
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20027230Keywords:
performance, local governance, good governanceAbstract
This study examined the dynamics of local governance in Sto. Domingo, Albay, focusing on performance across key government areas such as development planning, fiscal administration, local legislation, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) based on the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) indicators. It also aimed to determine the municipality’s best practices, the challenges encountered in implementing good governance, the measures to address these challenges, and to propose an agenda for progress. A mixed-methods research design was employed, utilizing quantitative and qualitative approaches. A structured questionnaire, interviews, and document analysis were used to gather data. Findings revealed that the LGU demonstrated moderate to strong performance in development planning, specifically on disaster preparedness and social programs, high citizen satisfaction in most governance areas, and an active legislative body with significant output. However, key challenges involved mismanagement risks, limited transparency, and political and administrative constraints. The study concluded that strengthening governance requires comprehensive reforms in financial management, participatory mechanisms, and accountability frameworks. The study recommended the adoption of an integrated governance focused on financial management, participatory mechanisms, and a strengthened monitoring and evaluation system to enhance transparency, citizen engagement, digital governance, and data-driven decision-making to improve LGU performance and development outcomes
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