REGIONAL AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT DEVELOPMENT

MANAGEMENT

What can Local Government Units (LGUs) do for the welfare and

well-being of their constituents according to the functions and

responsibilities as mandated in the Local Government Code of

1991?

Local executives are responsible for ensuring self-reliance,

responsiveness, accountability, provision of services, and effective

coordination with national government policies and programs in line with

Local Government Code of the Philippines or RA 7160. But all of these

responsibilities will not be exercised in a full manner due to corruption

within the government.

One of the main causes of government initiatives failing in

Philippine local government entities is corruption. The nation lost $410.5

billion because of illegal financial activity between 1960 and 2011, mostly

because of trade misinvoicing. Infrastructure, healthcare, and education

may have benefited from this loss. Significant revenue loss results from

corruption as well; unreported transactions cost the Bureau of Customs

25% of the value of all commodities. This further curtails the

government's capacity to provide funding and carry out initiatives.

Additionally, corruption has a detrimental effect on the business

environment, which makes it harder for the government to draw in

investments. In the worldwide corruption perception index, the

Philippines comes in at number 95, suggesting a significant degree of

corruption. In conclusion, corruption in Philippine local government units

result in large financial losses, decreased income, and an unfavorable

business environment, all of which exacerbate the failure of government

initiatives.

Local government units in the Philippines can effectively fight

corruption by lowering possibilities for corruption through deregulation

and policy changes. Some of the actions they can take are to target

specific departments and agencies, strengthen sanctions against

corruption, work with the private sector, support judicial reform, and

increase public oversight and transparency in campaign finance and

budget processes. They can also inform the public about the detrimental

effects of corruption and the significance of accountability and integrity.

To ensure fair elections, they can also penalize brokers and vote

dealers. The Philippines may progress toward a more open and

accountable government by putting these policies into practice.

Dealing with corruption in government is essential to enhancing

the quality of life for its citizens, particularly those who are

disadvantaged and at risk. It causes an unequal distribution of

resources, inadequate public services, and a decline in trust in

government agencies. Reducing corruption makes it possible for public

revenues to be allocated to initiatives like infrastructure, healthcare, and

education. A government free from corruption draws more capital, boosts

GDP, generates employment, and raises people's standards of living.

Additionally, it strengthens public confidence in the government,

encouraging civic engagement and an effective democracy. In summary,

combating corruption involves more than just holding offenders

accountable; it also entails creating a government that is open and

honest.

Having known the different management styles and leadership

qualities of both female and male local executives in your locality

or local government units elsewhere in the Philippines, in your

opinion, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having a

female local chief executive.

In the Philippines, the role of women as local chief executives is a

testament to the country’s strides in promoting gender equality. Despite

being underrepresented in some of the highest positions in both

government and industry, Filipino women have shown their capability

and competence in leadership positions. However, challenges remain,

such as gender stereotyping and limited opportunities in traditionally

male-dominated offices. The presence of women in these roles not only

provides a diverse perspective and approach to governance but also

serves as an inspiration for continued efforts to provide equal

opportunities for women in all sectors of society.

According to a 2018 report by the Philippine Women's

Commission, women currently make up 22.4% of elected local chief

executives, a huge rise from the 10% they held in the 1990s. The Magna

Carta for Women, which required a minimum of 20% representation for

women in elected offices, is responsible for the surge in the number of

women in local politics. This surge has also been attributed to a rising

movement to promote and train women running for office, as well as

organizations that assist and train these candidates. Local chief

executives primarily female have demonstrated increased efficacy in

executing initiatives that benefit the community and more

responsiveness to the demands of constituents.

In local government, the appointment of women for key positions

has resulted in advantages as well as disadvantages. Advantages

include more responsibility, better decision-making, and a greater

emphasis on issues impacting women and children. On the other hand,

disadvantages include lack of support, difficulties balancing both

professional and familial obligations, and prejudice and preconceptions.

Discrimination and stereotypes can make it difficult for female leaders to

engage with constituents and carry out policy. Their ability to be

productive might be hampered by stress and burnout from juggling work

and home obligations. Women leaders may also find it difficult to

accomplish their objectives and leave a lasting impression on their

communities if they don't have the support of their peers and

constituency. Notwithstanding these obstacles, the recruitment of women

to important roles in local government has improved service delivery and

governance.

Promoting gender equality and inclusive government in the

Philippines requires the presence of women in local chief executive

positions. Their presence improves successful administration by

challenging established customs, increasing the representation of

women, and providing unique perspectives.

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