Local Governance in Tuguegarao City: Inputs for Policy Recommendation

Abstract

This study examines the state of local governance in Tuguegarao City, Philippines, three decades after the implementation of the Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991. Grounded in decentralization and Fayol’s management principles, it assesses local development, administration,  and  democracy,  and  identifies  problems  and  best  practices  from  2011 to 2021. Using a descriptive research design, data were gathered from 402 respondents composed of City Government unit heads and Barangay Development Council members, supplemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Statistical tools, including t-tests and ANOVA, were used to determine differences across demographic groups. Results show that respondents rated local governance as achieving notable gains across recurring issues in decentralization (WM=3.65), local development (WM=3.83), local administration (WM=3.84), and local democracy (WM=3.96). Significant improvements were noted in digitalization, human resource capacity, participatory mechanisms, and representation of basic sectors. Age, sex, and income did not significantly influence assessments, while educational attainment showed differences in views on decentralization issues. Persistent challenges included political interference, low tax collection, limited transparency, and slow digital adoption. Best practices centered on disaster risk reduction, poverty reduction, business-friendliness, and community-based programs. The study recommends strengthening transparency, enhancing participation, expanding digital systems, and institutionalizing effective practices to sustain local governance reforms.