Governance & Public Administration

The Concept of Flow Among Samar’s Performing LGU

['Del Rosario', 'Cinco', 'Machate', 'Rojas']

This study employed an appreciative inquiry approach to examine the concept of flow among Samar’s performing Local Government Units. It identified optimal work conditions and subthemes contributing to high engagement, including supportive environments, clear goals, autonomy, collaboration, effective communication, leadership influence, and continuous learning. Data were gathered through interviews and qualitative analysis to understand how positive psychological experiences enhance workplace performance. Findings revealed that flow experiences are shaped by organizational culture, leadership styles, teamwork, recognition, and opportunities for growth. The study emphasizes that cultivating supportive and empowering environments can enhance employee well-being, engagement, and organizational success in local governance contexts.

Decoding the Language of Violence: Shaping Gender Perspectives and Governance in Local Barangays

['Acosta', 'Quiña', 'Alegro']

This study examined how language, gender, and governance intersect in handling Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) cases in rural barangays of Samar Island. Using critical discourse analysis and feminist linguistics, the research analyzed interviews, focus group discussions, and official documents to uncover how institutional language normalizes, minimizes, or reframes gender-based violence. Findings revealed that euphemistic expressions, indirect reporting practices, and bureaucratic framing often weaken legal accountability and discourage survivors from seeking justice. Despite existing legal frameworks, cultural norms and linguistic practices continue to hinder protection mechanisms. The study emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed, gender-sensitive communication and recommends institutional reforms, language training for officials, and policy adjustments to strengthen rights-based governance and survivor-centered support systems.

Leadership Experiences of Barangay Chairpersons in Armed Conflict Barangays: The Case of Samar

['Porton', 'Cabaguing', 'Quilatan', 'Labrague']

This study explored the leadership experiences of barangay chairpersons in armed conflict–affected areas in Samar using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the research examined challenges related to security threats, political pressure, community division, and emotional stress. Findings revealed that chairpersons balanced governance responsibilities with personal safety, mediation roles, and community protection. They relied on collaboration with security forces, NGOs, and local stakeholders to maintain peace and service delivery. Despite limited resources and constant risks, participants demonstrated resilience and commitment to public service. The study recommends strengthening security support, leadership training, psychological services, and inter-agency collaboration to enhance governance and community stability in conflict-affected barangays.

The Unseen Barriers: A Qualitative Inquiry into the Challenges Faced by Women in Reaching Leadership Positions

['Del Rosario', 'Rojas', 'Porton', 'Cañal', 'Cabaguing']

This study explored the barriers faced by women in achieving leadership positions across government offices in Samar using a narrative inquiry approach. Five key themes emerged: persistence against gender bias, overcoming structural barriers, the role of self-advocacy, balancing professional and personal roles, and commitment to inclusivity and change. Participants highlighted challenges such as gender stereotypes, limited mentorship, unequal access to promotions, and work-life balance pressures. Despite these constraints, women demonstrated resilience through self-promotion, collaboration, and advocacy for equitable workplace reforms. The study emphasizes the need for systemic institutional changes, inclusive leadership practices, and gender-sensitive policies to ensure sustainable and equitable leadership opportunities.

Community Insights: Exploring Catbalogan City Residents’ Experiences with Local Government Services

['Cabaguing', 'Villanueva', 'Quilatan', 'Labrague']

This study explored the lived experiences and perceptions of Catbalogan City residents regarding local government services using a qualitative case study approach. Through in-depth interviews with fifteen participants from diverse demographics, the research examined accessibility, service efficiency, transparency, and equity in public service delivery. Findings revealed strengths in complaint response mechanisms and digital communication platforms but identified challenges in accessibility, resource allocation, infrastructure delays, and equitable service provision, particularly in rural barangays and marginalized groups. The study underscores the importance of participatory governance, transparent leadership, and inclusive policies. It recommends decentralizing services, strengthening community engagement mechanisms, improving infrastructure investments, and institutionalizing feedback systems to enhance public trust and service quality.

Talk the Talk: Determining How Effective Communication Can Make or Break Young Leaders

['Acosta', 'Gatil', 'Palencia']

This study examined the communicative competence of Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials in Catbalogan City, focusing on linguistic, sociolinguistic, discourse, and strategic competencies. Using a descriptive research design, data were gathered through speaking tests, writing assessments, observations, and online instruments. Findings revealed that respondents obtained a “Poor” level in linguistic competence, while other competencies were rated “Average.” Many officials demonstrated enthusiasm and basic skills but lacked sufficient training and public speaking experience. The study emphasizes the importance of communication in leadership effectiveness and community engagement. It recommends implementing structured communication training, leadership development programs, and continuous mentoring to strengthen advocacy, representation, and youth participation in local governance.

Perspectives of Barangay Officials in Western Samar Regarding the Role of Grammar in Local Governance

['Sultan', 'Tafalla-Salcedo', 'Pacoma', 'Baclay']

This study investigated the perceptions of barangay officials in Western Samar regarding the role of grammar in local governance, particularly in communication, instruction, and public service delivery. Using a descriptive research design, survey questionnaires were administered to officials from selected municipalities. The study examined grammar use in language proficiency, instruction versus exposure, conscious knowledge, communication context, and authentic text presentation. Findings revealed that respondents generally perceived grammar as essential in promoting effective governance and professional communication. However, variations were observed based on tenure, age, and educational attainment. The study recommends strengthening language training programs, integrating grammar instruction in leadership development, and promoting effective communication practices to enhance administrative efficiency and public service performance.

The Role of Government Spending in Economic Growth and Wealth Improvement in Eastern Visayas

['Quilatan', 'Cabaguing', 'Labrague', 'Hamo-ay']

This study analyzed the relationship between government spending, economic growth, and wealth improvement in Eastern Visayas using secondary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority and the International Wealth Index covering 2001 to 2023. It examined how government expenditures, particularly Government Final Consumption Expenditure, influence Gross Regional Domestic Product and wealth distribution. Trend and correlation analyses revealed strong positive relationships between government spending and economic growth, and moderate relationships with wealth improvement. However, wealth distribution improved at a slower rate. The study recommends targeted public investments, strengthened local governance, improved fiscal accountability, and inclusive development strategies to ensure that economic growth translates into equitable wealth improvement across the region.

Discovering Flow: Highlighting Positive Psychology in Public Service for Improved Governance in Samar

['Cinco', 'Nacionales', 'Cabrales']

This study examined the role of positive psychology, particularly psychological flow, in enhancing public service performance and governance in Samar. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, quantitative and qualitative data were collected from Local Government Unit employees recognized under the Seal of Good Local Governance. The research explored how flow experiences influence employee engagement, productivity, and well-being in public institutions. Findings revealed strong relationships between flow, job satisfaction, and workplace performance. Employees who frequently experienced flow demonstrated higher focus, motivation, and service commitment. The study recommends integrating positive psychology interventions, promoting supportive work environments, and institutionalizing employee wellness programs to strengthen organizational effectiveness and public service delivery.

Barangay Governance Capabilities of Barangay Officials in Samar

['Cabaguing', 'Labargue', 'Villanueva']

This study examined the governance capabilities of barangay officials in Samar in terms of accountability, direction, fairness, transparency, and performance. Using a descriptive-evaluative research design, data were gathered through surveys and interviews to assess leadership practices, service delivery, and community engagement. Findings revealed that most barangay officials demonstrated very good governance capabilities, particularly in accountability and strategic direction. However, challenges related to resource limitations, infrastructure gaps, and administrative constraints persisted. The study emphasizes the importance of strengthening ethical leadership, participatory governance, and continuous capacity development. It recommends enhancing training programs, improving inter-agency coordination, and institutionalizing monitoring mechanisms to sustain effective and responsive barangay governance.

The Discourse of Poverty: Perspectives of LGU Officials

['Acosta', 'Cinco', 'Baclay']

This study examined how LGU officials construct and interpret poverty through discourse in selected municipalities in Samar. Using qualitative methods such as in-depth interviews, document analysis, and discourse analysis, the research explored officials’ narratives, beliefs, and policy orientations regarding poverty alleviation. Findings revealed that poverty is framed through economic, social, and institutional dimensions, often influenced by political priorities and resource constraints. Participants emphasized livelihood assistance, education support, and social protection programs as primary interventions. However, structural barriers and limited coordination hindered program effectiveness. The study recommends strengthening evidence-based policymaking, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, improving community participation, and institutionalizing inclusive development strategies to ensure sustainable poverty reduction.

Political Families in Eastern Visayas: A Historical Analysis of Dynastic Politics

['Labrague', 'Quilatan', 'Cabaguing']

Political dynasty is rampant in Philippine politics. A number of political clans holding their respective turfs or bailiwicks has, since then, been in power. While some families foster development in their areas, others generally pose challenges in terms of local governance, political participation, and the like. The Eastern Visayas region is no exception. Through a historical research undertaking, the researchers traced political families across provinces and analyzed factors that gave rise to or led to the demise of political dynasties. Results indicate that historical legacy, succession planning, patronage networks, cultural factors, resources, and limited alternatives sustain dynasties, while internal conflicts and shifting public sentiment contribute to their decline.