Government Units Research Articles

Krakow's Participatory School Budget as an Example of Civic Education

An example of civic education is the participatory school budget used in Poland. In the participatory budget training, students submit their own ideas, create projects, and then choose those that they think are the most attractive and important. The idea for a participatory school budget was born from the desire to adapt the classic participatory budget process to the needs of a small, local community, such as a school. Taking part in this type of project allows students to co-decide about matters in their immediate environment, i.e. the school. However, in the longer term, it is intended to prepare them to engage in the classic citizen budget, which is carried out in local government units in Poland. The aim of the article is to briefly present the origins and idea of the classic participatory budget, but primarily to focus on the participatory school budget, in particular in relation to a specific example, which is the participatory school budget carried out in one of the Polish cities – Krakow. The article also includes information about the campaign of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education promoting participatory budgeting in schools. Document analysis and critical content analysis, as well as historical and comparative methods were used to write the article.

Effect of Organizational Justice on Budget Slack: the Role of Budget Emphasis as a Moderating Variable

This research aims to analyze the influence of organizational justice on budget slack, along with the moderating role of budget emphasis in the functional relationship between these two variables. The study sample includes 366 officer from local government units in the province of Aceh, Indonesia. Data collection was conducted through questionnaires, and the data analysis model employed moderated regression analysis. The findings reveal that organizational justice has a significant and negative impact on budget slack. Moreover, budget emphasis not only exhibits a negative influence on budget slack but also moderates the impact of organizational justice on budget slack. The negative influence of organizational justice on budget slack increases with the rise in budget emphasis.

Emerging African towns are critical urban planning priorities: A research agenda for the sub-continent

This article responds to the significant amount of urban growth in sub-Saharan Africa that is occurring in historically rural areas. As towns become reclassified as ‘urban’, many will be declared local government units and statutory planning areas. Yet, knowledge of urbanisation, and the current and potential role of urban planning, has been overwhelmingly biased towards existing urban centres, especially the largest. This article seeks to decentre urban planning debates from larger agglomerations by contributing to the re-invigorating scholarship on small town growth in sub-Saharan Africa. Key questions include: how do rural villages become towns, how does rural governance transform, and what are the implications for establishing urban planning systems? These questions are approached through a comparative analysis of towns in Tanzania, Malawi and Ghana. The article concludes with a set of questions aimed at guiding further case studies in this increasingly important, though largely overlooked, terrain of planning research, theory and practice.

Batil and Fasid Marriages under Presidential Decree 1083 as practiced by Meranao Marriages in Tamparan, Lanao del Sur

This study was purposefully undertaken to explore and document the occurrences of batil and fasid marriages under Presidential Decree 1083, specifically within the context of Meranaw marriages in Tamparan, Lanao del Sur. The primary objective of this research was to address key inquiries, seeking comprehensive insights into the following questions: What are the common batil and fasid marriage practices and nature? What is the understanding of the respondents of the nature of these marriages and its acceptability? What are their opinions regarding the topic? What are the observable effects of these marriages? What are the reasons for its prevalent occurrence? and what are the remedies for its mitigation? To seek answers for these mentioned problems, an Interview Guide Questionnaire was utilised in order to gather data from the four selected respondents under the Local Government Unit of Tamparan, Lanao del Sur. The data were gathered using experiential learning method and were manually encoded. The findings showed that for the first problem, despite being briefed on the concept, respondents assert the absence of "batil" practices in the community. For the second problem, respondents, including those knowledgeable about Islamic principles, Taritib, and Igma, collectively assert that adherence to these cultural and traditional norms is crucial. As for the third problem, one respondent strongly disapproves of such marriages, emphasizing Allah's prohibition of wrongdoing and the Qur'an's guidance. Another respondent highlights that batil and fasid marriages are infrequent. Additionally, a respondent emphasizes the importance of adhering to Islam's optimal laws. The fourth problem’s findings were that more respondents agree that these marriages have adverse effects, causing displeasure to Allah and diminishing life's blessings, as emphasized in Qur'anic verses promoting forgiveness. The fifth problem’s findings were attributed it to a lack of strong faith, secrecy and politics. The sixth problem’s findings were their suggestions focus on proactive measures, communication, and shared responsibility to effectively manage and reduce these issues. Considering the noteworthy discovery of the research, the subsequent recommendations have been formulated: Provide ethical guidance and religious education; Raise awareness about cultural and traditional norms; Address conflicts arising from Maratabat; Explore the impact of cultural assimilation; Strengthen education on Islamic teachings; Promote unity and collective responsibility; Advocate for proactive prevention of wrongdoing; Organize seminars and utilize social media; Focus on community education and involvement; Encourage discussions and dialogue; Emphasize adherence to Islamic principles; Recognize Tamparan as an Islamic municipality; Address adverse effects and promote well-being; Explore cultural and social dynamics; Address weak faith and cultural conflicts; Investigate political influences; Promote community responsibility; Strengthen the role of Ulama; Conduct seminars and utilize social media; Focus on community education and involvement

A potential community-based tourism analysis of baseco: A basis for socio-economic sustainability development

Background: Community-based tourism has been promoted as a strategy for the reduction of poverty, with the potential to improve the sustainability of marginalized regions and communities. The locals of Baseco have low wages, unsecured employment, and limited access to primary services like education, healthcare, sanitation, and adequate shelter. Methods: The study determines the relationship between the local government views on community-based tourism and their level of contributions to the community-based tourism for the Baseco’s socio-economic sustainability development. The researchers had two distinct categories of respondents to get the perspectives of all parties involved in the study’s beneficial result. Using the quantitative method and the purposive sampling technique, there were one hundred thirty (130) respondents through online survey questionnaires. The data of the respondents were examined using a Likert scale, and the collected information was statistically analyzed using frequency, weighted mean, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation coefficient. Findings: Using the elements of community-based tourism such as: (1) resource conservation; (2) social and economic development; (3) empowerment and ownership; and (4) quality visitor experience, the participants determine the impact of community-based tourism to the community. The result indicates a moderately strong positive relationship between the viewed community-based tourism socio-economic activity of the local government unit in Baseco and the perceived level of possible contributions to its community-based socio-economic sustainability. Moreover, the result from the local community of Baseco indicates a strong agreement and satisfaction with the possible implementation of community-based tourism in Baseco. Conclusion: The residents firmly support and express pleasure with the implementation of community-based tourism as shown in the data. Novelty/Originality of this Study: The novelty CBT in Baseco, Manila, a highly urbanized informal settlement, emphasizing the potential for socio-economic and sustainable development through local government and community collaboration, which has not been extensively documented before.

Preparedness of Local Government Units on Full Devolution with the Implementation of the Mandanasgarcia Ruling

This study assessed the preparedness of cities and municipalities in Region III for the full devolution of basic services in alignment with the Mandanas-Garcia Ruling by the Year 2022, following the enactment of RA 7160 (1991 Local Government Code). Utilizing descriptive and comparative research methods, the investigation revealed that a considerable proportion of LGU departments consist of small teams, indicative of prevalent smaller organizational units. LGUs demonstrated a moderate level of preparedness, with employees perceiving higher readiness in transition planning compared to local executives and department heads. Notably, local executives consistently felt more prepared in financial planning, human resources, and facilities management. Significant differences in preparedness levels were identified across LGUs concerning transition planning, coordination, financial management, human resources, and facilities and equipment, with p-values below the 0.05 significance threshold. Challenges in full devolution, including funding, manpower, coordination, revenue generation, and procurement, were highlighted, exacerbated by pandemic-related issues and urban development discrepancies. Proposed solutions encompass strategies to enhance local revenue, improve personnel recruitment, invest in capacitybuilding, foster collaboration, and advocate for standardized policies. This study contributes valuable insights into the nuanced landscape of LGU preparedness for devolution, paving the way for targeted interventions and policy recommendations.

Determinants of Economic Dynamism among the 22 Municipalities in the Philippines

This study was conducted to identify the determinants of economic dynamism as proxy to investment climate of the 22 Municipalities in the Philippines. The variables namely infrastructure pillar, government efficiency pillar, and resiliency pillar from the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness (CMCI) Survey are the independent variables considered in the study. Using panel regression in the analysis, the results show that economic dynamism is significantly driven by government efficiency and infrastructure pillars. Furthermore, the study revealed that economic dynamism scores of the Municipalities are increasing overtime as shown by the time effect component in the model. This suggests that the municipalities had improved their business climate over time, even during the pandemic. Based on the results, it is recommended that local government units (LGUs) focus on improving their performance under the indicators of government efficiency and infrastructure pillar to create a more business-friendly environment and attract more investors. Additionally, while the resiliency pillar did not show a statistically significant effect on economic dynamism, further review and enhancement of the indicators measuring resilience were suggested to better capture its impact.

Roles of NGOs and Local Government Units

This research delved into the critical roles played by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in supporting anti-poverty programs of Local Government Units (LGUs) in Barangay Pasil, Cebu City. It involved three NGOs that were selected based on their experience, collaboration agreements, and poverty-fighting program designs. Employing a qualitative approach, the experiences and perspectives of the participating NGOs were examined through semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was then utilized to extract key themes from the rich qualitative data. The NGOs' profiles, programs, and strategies were explored, revealing their crucial roles in tackling the complex issues of poverty. The findings revealed that these NGOs provide significant contributions to community development, and were strongly dedicated to enhancing marginalized communities' well-being through varied missions, funding sources, and innovative programs. Furthermore, collaboration between the NGOs and LGUs supported governmental efforts, shaped local policies, and improved service provision, underscoring the value of strategic partnerships for sustainable development. The strategic sharing of resources underscored the importance of a unified approach in effectively addressing multifaceted community needs. Persistent collaboration and joint endeavors between NGOs and LGUs can help establish resilient, empowered communities, promoting inclusive development and a promising future for Pasil, Cebu City residents.

Building a Robust Federalism in India: Constitutional Provisions, Practical Challenges, and Pathways to Overcome

This study explores the intricacies of India's federalism, examining both the actual challenges encountered in implementing the system and the legal structure that establishes and governs it. The Indian Constitution aims to establish a balance of authority and responsibility between the central and state governments. It combines unique characteristics of unitary government with federal government. This study looks at the key constitutional provisions and amendments that specify the organizational structure of the federal government, including the division of legislative power, budgetary relationships, and administrative processes. Federalism cannot actually be implemented in India due to significant barriers, despite a constitution designed to maintain a careful balance. Administrative inefficiencies, political tensions, and economic disparities sometimes lead to strained relations between centers and states. This essay looks at these problems, highlighting instances of conflict and cooperation between different levels of government. This study aims to understand the evolution of Indian federalism by a critical analysis of case laws, policy decisions, and intergovernmental discussions. The paper also covers the effects of regionalism, coalition politics, and economic liberalization on the federal framework. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the practical aspects of constitutional federalism and the necessary modifications to enhance its efficacy by means of an examination of these characteristics. The findings underscore the necessity of continuous deliberation and adaptation to ensure that India's federalism is resilient and responsive to the aspirations of its diverse citizenry.

Awareness and Acceptability of Pre-Certified Halal Foods to Non-Muslim Students among Secondary Schools

Multiculturalism is increasingly shaping contemporary societies, yet food, a fundamental human necessity, often becomes a point of cultural and belief-based contention. The halal food industry has grown significantly, garnering support both locally and internationally. However, this burgeoning sector faces challenges related to establishing standardized regulations that acknowledge its role in nation-building and promote cultural diversity. This study aimed to assess the awareness and acceptance of pre-certified halal food among non-Muslim students across secondary schools in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat. Employing a descriptive survey research design, the study utilized a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to 350 students selected through simple random sampling from seven identified schools in Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat. Findings indicated that despite Lambayong's diverse population, most respondents demonstrated awareness and positive perceptions of pre-certified halal food. However, some community elders and church leaders expressed reservations about allowing younger generations to consume such food. The study also observed that while many vendors and proprietors were Muslim, not all adhered to the practice of wearing hijab (for Muslim women), and some lacked necessary cooking equipment like gloves and hairnets. Furthermore, certain halal establishments were found to have inadequate sanitation and pest control measures. Ultimately, the study concluded that there exists a moderate relationship between respondents' awareness and their acceptance of halal food. Recommendations include schools collaborating with barangay and local government units to monitor the hygiene of nearby restaurants and canteens. Additionally, halal food establishments should prioritize enhancing their sanitation practices and hygiene protocols to ensure compliance and consumer confidence.

Dampak Sistem Pengendalian Internal dan Kompetensi Aparatur terhadap Tingkat Pencegahan Fraud Pengadaan

The government has always been the largest spending agency in many countries, and this means a lot opportunities for government procurement fraud. Failure to implement robust measures against fraud prevention can lead to financial loss and bad reputation. Therefore, there is an urgent need for extensive studies to understand the factors that can contribute to fraud prevention strategies among government agencies. This paper examines two factors that may promote procurement fraud prevention among government agencies in Palembang City. The two factors are and internal control system and competency of government apparatus. Questionnaires were distributed to 50 government units from the procurement actors. Data were thoroughly analysed using multiple regression analysis with the SPSS analysis tool. The finding showed that prevention of procurement fraud programs was influenced by competency of government apparatus and internal control system. This study contributes to support in confirming the critical role of the internal control system and competency of government apparatus in enhancing fraud mitigation mechanisms. However, partially competency of government apparatus did not influence the prevention of fraud. Keywords: fraud, procurement, government, internal control, competency

The Quality Assurance Acceleration Through Accreditation for Civil Service Universities in Indonesia

The Quality assurance for higher education is very important to ensure that the educational institutions provide quality services to students and the community. Currently, more than hundreds Civil Service Universities or Perguruan Tinggi Kedinasan (PTK) have been established in Indonesia. PTK is a governmental unit dedicated to improve the learning capacity of civil servants, so that the quality assurance is considered as the strategic role for the institutions to prepare the quality of human resources in the public sector. In order to improve the quality, accreditation is required as a standardized instrument for higher education to comply. This paper aims to explore the urgency of accreditation for civil service universities in Indonesia. The format of this paper is a policy brief, so the writing structure is structured as follows: Executive Summary, Policy Issue (Background), Problem Formulation, Impact of Non-Accredited PTK, Recommendations for Alternative Solutions, and Conclusion.

Staffing and Workload in Primary Care Facilities of Selected Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Communities in the Philippines.

Staffing shortages and health inequities are persistent barriers in the Philippines toward achieving universal health care. To ensure an adequate and responsive health workforce, there is a need to evaluate the Human Resources for Health (HRH) status across health facilities, particularly those in underserved communities. Hence, this study aims to determine the staffing requirements and workload pressure among primary care facilities in selected geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) in the Philippines. The study utilized the workload indicators of staffing need (WISN) methodology from the World Health Organization to determine the staffing and workload situation among three health worker cadres (physicians, nurses, and midwives) in the study sites. Particularly, six primary care facilities (four rural health units and two community hospitals) located in Surigao del Norte were involved in the study. WISN-related data (health service statistics, available working time, and health professionals' workload components) were collected through records review, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The WISN software was used to analyze the staffing levels and workload pressure in the selected facilities. A total of 40 health workers, including physicians (n = 5, 13%), nurses (n = 21, 52%), and midwives (n = 14, 35%) participated in the study. The findings noted varying levels of staffing and workload pressures among the three cadres in selected primary care facilities, which were influenced by several factors. Particularly, health facilities with additional human resources obtained from deployment programs indicated adequate staffing and low to normal workload pressures. However, further analysis revealed potential HRH maldistribution and reliance on the temporary nature of the staff augmentation program in delivering primary care services, which need to be addressed to optimize health workforce planning. Service workload may also have been impacted by the temporary closure of health facilities due to disasters. Among the few cadres that reported staffing shortage and high workload pressure, these were due to higher service demands, increased task delegation, and inadequate service coordination. Hence, context-specific challenges and situational factors in GIDAs need to be considered when determining the staffing and workload requirements. There is a need to improve the capacities of health facilities and local government units (LGUs) to engage in evidence-based HRH planning through the WISN methodology. Doing so could improve staffing and workload distribution among health care facilities in the country. Moreover, interorganizational collaboration (DOH, LGUs, and health facilities) should be strengthened to improve delineation and prevent duplication/omission of health services, rationalize HRH distribution and augmentation, and streamline the priority health services based on the local contextual factors.

Financial Prudence as Determinant of Employees’ Interest in Graduate Study

The study aimed to looked into the influence of financial prudence of employees towards employees’ interest towards graduate study. In this study, the researcher selected the 100 government employees in Local Government Unit (LGU) in Koronadal City as the respondents of the study. Stratified random sampling technique was utilized in the selection of the respondents. Non-experimental quantitative research design using descriptive-correlational method was employed. The data collected were subjected to the following statistical tools: Mean, Pearson Moment Product Correlation and Regression Analysis. Findings revealed that financial prudence and employees’ interest in graduate study were rated as extensive. Further, correlation analysis demonstrated that there is a significant relationship between financial prudence and employees’ interest towards graduate study in Koronadal City. Evidently, regression analysis proved that financial prudence in terms of financial resources and financial goals identification significantly influenced the employees’ interest towards graduate study in Koronadal City. Local Government Unit (LGU) should introduce initiatives that promote financial literacy and prudence among employees, including workshops, seminars, and educational resources tailored to the specific financial needs and challenges associated with pursuing graduate study.

Sistem Informasi Manajemen Arsip Daerah Pada Dinas Perpustakaan Dan Kearsipan Tanah Laut Berbasis Web

The District Library and Archives Office of Tanah Laut Regency is a local government unit responsible for assisting the government in organizing library and archives affairs. In these activities, the archives are still in the form of hard copies, which can be lost or damaged in case of fire, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events. Moreover, hardcopy archives are also subject to deterioration with age. To address these challenges, the author developed a Web-Based Regional Archive Management Information System at the District Library and Archives Office of Tanah Laut. The system was built using the incremental model and programmed in PHP (CodeIgniter Framework), HTML and CSS, while being designed using Entity Relationship Diagram and Unified Modeling Language. The system underwent black-box testing conducted by Batuah Teknologi Semesta, resulting in successful testing of the system's features and performance. The data used in the Web-Based Regional Archive Management Information System at the District Library and Archives Office of Tanah Laut consists of hardcopy archive data from each department within Tanah Laut. Therefore, the system was developed to provide various features that enable users to perform essential tasks. The main features of the system include the management of inactive, obsolete, and static archives.

Pengaruh Whistleblowing System Dan Budaya Organisasi Terhadap Pencegahan Kecurangan Di Kantor Imigrasi Kelas I TPI Bandung

Immigration Office Class I TPI (Immigration Checkpoint) Bandung is a government unit under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights and holds a substantial significance in the administration of immigration affairs and supervision services. Immigration office has a form of supervision to prevent all forms of fraud or violations in the form of whistleblowing systems and supervision in the form of attitudes and rules of "organizational culture" in the implementation of its work. By using associative quantitative research methods using a survey in the form of primary data, namely a questionnaire on 39 respondents. The purpose of the research was to identify the partial and simultaneous impact of the whistleblowing system and organizational culture on fraud prevention efforts at Bandung Class I Immigration Office. Employing methods of data analysis utilizing data quality tests, correlation analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and also hypothesis analysis using the help of SPSS ver.27. The findings indicated that the whistleblowing system had limited impact on deterring fraud, whereas the organizational culture demonstrated a favorable influence on fraud prevention. Simultaneously, whistleblowing system variables and organizational culture affect fraud prevention.

Barriers and enablers to help seeking, treatment adherence and recovery among community-based drug rehabilitation clients in the Philippines

Background This study aimed to determine factors influencing help-seeking, accessing treatment and sustaining recovery among Filipino PWUDs during the country’s war against drugs. Methods Purposive sampling was used with respondents recommended by program managers or community facilitators of community-based drug rehabilitation programs. In-depth interviews with clients and their families were conducted in 17 local government units across 8 regions in the Philippines. Transcripts were analyzed using Nvivo 12. Results The results highlight barriers to help-seeking, including the PWUDs’ belief that they don’t need help, fear of police and incarceration, stigma and discrimination. Enablers to help seeking and treatment adherence were motivation to change, accessible treatment options and family support. Community acceptance, quality of care of service providers, and support of community leaders enabled both help-seeking and recovery. Conclusion The findings suggest the impact of a punitive approach and the need to reframe drug use as a health issue. Results also suggest the need to reduce stigma and discrimination and promote positive messaging to enable help-seeking, adherence, and recovery.

EFFECTIVENESS OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 70 OR THE NATIONAL TASK FORCE TO END LOCAL COMMUNIST ARMED CONFLICT: EXPERIENCES ON THE POVERTY REDUCTION, LIVELIHOOD, AND EMPLOYMENT CLUSTER OF THE SELECTED COMMUNITIES IN KIBAWE, BUKIDNON, PHILIPPINES

This study examines the experiences of the selected communities in the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF- ELCAC) Poverty Reduction, Livelihoods, and Employment Cluster of Executive Order No. 70. It utilized qualitative research through the phenomenology approach as it studied the experiences of the selected communities in Kibawe, Bukidnon. It employed thematic analysis in this investigation to assess the study’s focus group discussion. The study concludes that the whole-of-the-nation approach of the government was an effective tool for the government to uplift the living conditions of the selected communities by reducing poverty through livelihood and employment programs, penetrating the most insurgency-vulnerable areas in the municipality, and increasing the representation of the selected communities in the local government units through their representatives. These programs and projects under NTF-ELCAC PRLEC have had a political, social, and economic impact on the lives of the selected communities by reducing poverty, providing work opportunities for the communities, and helping them to become self-reliant without revolting against the government.

Guiding tourists’ cautious behaviour: the interaction role of goal message framing and construal level message during the public health crisis context

ABSTRACT Crisis communication is crucial for tourists’ safety, few studies have explored the impact of goal message framing and construal level message on tourists’ cautious behaviours in the public health crisis context. This study investigated the interaction effects of goal message framing effects (gain vs. loss) and construal level message (concrete vs. abstract) on tourists’ risk perception and cautious behaviours using two experiments. The findings suggest that the combination of a loss message and a concrete message, as well as the combination of a gain message and an abstract message, can effectively guide tourists’ cautious behaviours. Among these, the amalgamation of loss message framing with a concrete message is more effective and significant. Simultaneously, the persuasive effect of goal message framing and construal level on tourists’ cautious behaviours is mediated through risk perception. The results of this study can have better suggestions and responses for government units and tourism organisations in tourism crisis management.

Changes in the users of the social‐ecological system around a reciprocal human‐dolphin relationship

Abstract In contrast to many contemporary negative human‐nature relationships, Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities have stewarded nature through cultural practices that include reciprocal contributions for both humans and nature. A rare example is the century‐old artisanal fishery in which net‐casting fishers and wild dolphins benefit by working together, but little is known about the persistence of the social‐ecological system formed around this cultural practice. Here, we frame the human‐dolphin cooperative fishery in southern Brazil as a social‐ecological system based on secondary data from the scientific and grey literature. To investigate the dynamics of this system, we survey the local and traditional ecological knowledge and examine potential changes in its main component—the artisanal fishers—over time and space. Over 16 years, we conducted four interview campaigns with 188 fishers in fishing sites that are more open (accessible) or closed (restricted) to external influence. We investigated their experience, engagement and economic dependence on dolphin‐assisted fishing, as well as the learning processes and transmission of the traditional knowledge required to cooperate with dolphins. Our qualitative data suggest that fishers using accessible and restricted fishing sites have equivalent fishing experience, but those in more restrictive sites tend to be more economically dependent on dolphins, relying on them for fishing year‐round. The traditional knowledge on how to cooperate with dolphins is mostly acquired via social learning, with a tendency for vertical learning to be frequent among fishers using sites more restrictive for outsiders. Experience, economic dependence and reliance on vertical learning seem to decrease recently, especially in the accessible site. Our quantitative analyses, however, suggest that some of these fluctuations were not significant. Our study outlines the key components of this social‐ecological system and identifies changes in the attributes of a main component, the users. These changes, when coupled with changes in other components such as governance and resource units (fish and dolphins), can have implications for the persistence of this cultural practice and the livelihoods of Local Communities. We suggest that continuous monitoring of this system can help to safeguard the reciprocal contributions of this human‐nature relationship in years to come. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.