Philosophy and Science in

Public Administration

by:
JHON VINCE R. SANTOALLA
Master in Public Administration
Laguna State Polytechnic University
Sta. Cruz Laguna Campus
 Pres e n tat i on O u t li n e

I.
The Function
of Politics vs.
III. the Function of II.
Concept of
Governance and
Administration Forms of
Administrative
its Key Elements Systems
Pres e n tat i on O u t li n e

II.
Forms of
Administrative
I.
The Function of
Systems III.
Concept of
Politics vs. the Governance and
Function of its Key Elements
Administration
Pres e n tat i on O u t li n e

III.
Concept of
Governance
II.
and its Key I.
The Function of
Forms of
Administrative
Elements Politics vs. the
Function of
Systems Administration
 Pres e n tat i on O u t li n e

I.
The Function
of Politics vs.
III. the Function of II.
Concept of
Governance and
Administration Forms of
Administrative
its Key Elements Systems
I. The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration

POLITICS ADMINISTRATION
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration

Politics refers to the process by which groups of people

make collective decisions, typically through a representative
system. It involves activities such as the formation of public
policies, election campaigns, and the representation of
interests in government.

Administration, on the other hand, refers to the

implementation of public policies and the day-to-day
management of government operations. It involves the
execution of policies, programs, and services by government
agencies, and the management of resources, personnel, and
other aspects of government operations.
Source: The Politics–Administration Dichotomy: An Empirical
Search for Correspondence between Theory and Practice.
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration
The country has a bicameral legislative branch, consisting of the Upper
House (Senate) and the Lower House (House of Representatives). This
Legislative branch plays a crucial role in shaping the country's political
landscape. Congress is responsible for making laws and overseeing the
actions of the executive branch of government.

Some of the key functions of the Philippine Congress include:

1. Lawmaking: The primary function of Congress is to make laws.

Members of Congress propose, debate, and vote on bills, and if passed,
these bills become laws.

2. Oversight: Congress has the power to investigate and oversee the actions
of the executive branch of government. This includes the power to hold
hearings, summon witnesses, and gather information to ensure that the
government is acting in the best interests of the people.
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration

3. Representation: Congress serves as a representative of the people,

providing a forum for citizens to voice their opinions and concerns.
Members of Congress are elected to represent the interests of their
constituents, and they use their positions in Congress to advocate for their
communities.

4. Budgeting: Congress is responsible for approving the annual budget of

the government. This includes determining how much money will be spent
on different programs and initiatives and ensuring that the government is
using its resources effectively and efficiently.

In short, the Philippine Congress plays a crucial role in shaping the

country's laws, policies, and budget, and it serves as a vital check on the
actions of the executive branch of government.
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration

POLITICS ADMINISTRATION
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration

The Philippine Administration is headed by the President of the Philippines,

who serves as the head of state and head of government. The President is
assisted by a cabinet of appointed officials, who help to manage the various
departments and agencies of the government.

The Philippine Administration is responsible for a wide range of functions,

including the management of government finances, the delivery of social
services, the maintenance of law and order, and the administration of
justice. It also oversees the country's foreign relations and the management
of its resources, including land, forests, and minerals.
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration

The Philippine Administration operates through a system of departments

and agencies, each with specific responsibilities and functions. These
agencies include the Department of Education, the Department of Health,
the Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Department of
Justice, among others.
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration

POLITICS ADMINISTRATION
The relationship between politics and administration is inherently complex
because elected officials—politicians—create laws through the legislative
process. Administrative officials—serving in the agencies of government—are
tasked with implementing the policies made by elected officials.

Both groups share in responsibility for enacting laws, but they also have
distinct considerations that govern their behavior.

Scholars have varied in their beliefs about the extent to which politics should
be (or is) involved in public administration. As Demir and Nyhan (2008)
describe, there are three approaches to the relationship between politics
and public administration.
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration
Early Scholars Believed in Separation
Early public administration scholars, such as Woodrow Wilson, believed that there
should be a firm separation between politics and public administration.

The separation scholars tend to view the governmental realm as divided into two zones,
that is, politics and administration. They take a functional approach to analyze the
relationship between politics and administration. The function of politics is to provide
guidance, or what Wilson (1887) said, “setting the task for administration.” The function
of public administration, on the other hand, is to provide neutral competence to the
policy process.

POLITICS ADMINISTRATION
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration

POLITICS ADMINISTRATION (City Managers)

(Political Council)
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration
Other Scholars View them as Inseparable
Other scholars, though, have rejected the idea that politics and administration can be
kept separate. Instead, under this view, politics and administration are inseparable part
of the political process (e.g., Long, 1954; Bosworth, 1958; Pfiffner, 1985; Miller, 1993).

The political school takes administrative discretion as a point of departure to rationalize

the policy role of public administrators. Of many reasons, vague and ambiguous
legislations, lack of technical knowledge and resources available to elected officials, and
difficulties in monitoring and controlling bureaucratic behavior are a few used to signify
the critical role of public administrators in the policy process.

POLITICS ADMINISTRATION
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration
A Third Approach Sees the Two as Interactive
As Demir and Nyhan (2008) describe, a third approach to the relationship between politics and
administration argues that the two are inherently interactive due to the shared nature of their job
responsibilities, but that the administration should still be responsive to elected officials.

These scholars acknowledge the differences between politics and administration in a number of ways
such as logical and psychological differences between politics and administration, or dissimilarities in the
perspectives, values, and formal positions of elected and administrative officials (Waldo, 1980;
Nalbandian, 1994, Svara, 2001). Yet, what makes the third approach somewhat different from the
separation is its emphasis on ongoing cooperation between elected and administrative officials in the
process of policy making. Furthermore, the interaction school seeks an expansion of the value set of
public administration.

POLITICS ADMINISTRATION
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration
COMPARISON TABLE
Parameter of Comparison POLITICS
Definition The activities such as discussion,
expression and policy drafting for
the governance and allocation of
resources are collectively called
politics.
Nature - Conflict It is a desired trait for better
functioning.
ADMINISTRATION
The body that is responsible for the
implementation of the drafted
policies is known as
administration.
In administration, as much as
possible, conflict must be
eliminated to achieve common
goals
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration
COMPARISON TABLE

Parameter of Comparison POLITICS ADMINISTRATION

Relevant body The legislative is responsible for The executive is responsible for
the formation of political policies the implementation of these
policies.

Skill Required It is more of an art, that enables It requires scientific skills of

leaders to satisfy people’s needs management and commitment.
across constituencies.
The Function of Politics vs. the Function of Administration
COMPARISON TABLE

Parameter of Comparison POLITICS ADMINISTRATION

Office Holders People involved in politics are The administration is run by

elected leader or representatives. qualified individuals with relevant
skill to the filed they are working
in.
 II.
Forms of
Administrative
I.
The Function of
Systems III.
Concept of
Politics vs. the Governance and
Function of its Key Elements
Administration
II. Forms of Administrative Systems

Administrative System – refers to a network of

organizations with specific rules and goals, structures,
resources, and programs. It includes the internal
processes of and the interaction between and among the
public organizations, which are constituted to
implement, help formulate, monitor or assess public
policies. (UP NCPAG 2010)
II. Forms of Administrative Systems
Geographic Distribution of Power

1. Unitary system: centralizes power in a single central authority,

with little or no power given to lower levels of government.

2. Federal system: divides power between a central government

and constituent political units, such as states or provinces.

3. Confederation: a loose union of sovereign states, with a weak

central government.
II. Forms of Administrative Systems
Governments are also classified based on the relationship between
their legislative and executive agencies.

4. Parliamentary system: a system in which the executive branch

is accountable to the legislative branch and is dependent on its
support to remain in power.

5. Presidential system: a system in which the executive branch is

separate from the legislative branch and is directly elected by the
people.

6. Hybrid or mixed system: a combination of two or more of the

above forms of government, in which power is shared between
different branches and levels of government.
II. Forms of Administrative Systems

According to the 1987 Philippine Constitution Article 2 Section 1, the Philippines is

democratic and republican State. Sovereignty resides in the people and all government
authority emanates from them.

The Government of the Philippines has three interdependent and co-equal branches: the
LEGISLATIVE, EXECUTIVE, and JUDICIARY branches. The Philippines is governed as a
unitary state under a presidential representative and democratic constitutional republic in
which the president functions as both the head of state and the head of government of the
country within a pluriform multi-party system.
II. Forms of Administrative Systems
THE PHILIPPINE ADMINISTRATIVE SYSTEM (PAS)

FUNCTION OFFICES/INSTITUTIONS

1. Executive Responsible for implementing laws and policies and Office of the President
managing the day-to-day operations of government Office of the Vice President
agencies. Cabinet Secretaries

2. Legislative Responsible for making laws, appropriating funds for Senate of the Philippines
government programs and services, and overseeing the House of Representatives
Executive Branch.

3. Judiciary Responsible for interpreting the law and settling legal Supreme Court
disputes. Court of Appeals
Sandiganbayan
II. Forms of Administrative Systems
THE PHILIPPINE ADMINISTRATIVE SYSTEM (PAS)

FUNCTION OFFICES/INSTITUTIONS

4. Local The Executive Branch extends beyond the National Provincial Government
Government Units Government. According to Article X, Section 4 of City Government
the constitution, the President of the Philippines is Municipal Government
mandated to supervise local governments all over the
country. However, because of Republic Act No.
7160, otherwise known as the Local Government
Code of 1991, local governments enjoy relative
autonomy from the national government.

LGUs are responsible for implementing policies and

programs at the local level.
II. Forms of Administrative Systems

One basic corollary in a presidential

system of government is the principle
of separation of powers wherein
legislation belongs to Congress,
execution to the Executive, and
settlement of legal controversies to
the Judiciary.

Source: THREE BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT: How the

Philippine Government Is Organized; Philippine Information Agency
(PIA); pia.gov.ph/branches-of-govt
II. Forms of Administrative Systems
Many countries have also implemented reforms aimed at
improving the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of their
administrative systems.

This can involve a range of measures, such as investing in

technology, reducing bureaucracy, increasing citizen engagement,
and combating corruption.

The administrative system of each country is unique. It is unique in

the sense that it is the product of historical experiences and the
cultural, social, economic and political environment of that
country.
 III.
Concept of
Governance
II.
and its Key I.
The Function of
Forms of
Administrative
Elements Politics vs. the
Function of
Systems Administration
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements
GOVERNANCE
Asian Development Bank
“the manner in which power is exercised in
the management of a country’s social and
economic resources for development. It is
referred to as the quality of the institutions
to make, implement and enforce sound
policies in an efficient, effective, equitable
and inclusive.”
United Nations Development Program
“The exercise of economic, political, and
administrative authority to manage a country’s
affairs at all levels. It comprises mechanisms,
processes, and institutions through which
citizens and groups articulate their interests,
exercise their legal rights, meet their
obligations, and mediate their differences.”
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

GOVERNANCE

National Economic Development Authority

“Governance is not the sole domain of government

but transcends government to encompass the
business sector and the civil society.”
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ACTORS IN GOVERNANCE

Source: UNDP (1997)

STATE/PUBLIC SECTOR BUSINESS SECTOR CIVIL SOCIETY

III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ACTORS IN GOVERNANCE

Source: UNDP (1997)

The STATE is responsible for creating and

enforcing laws, regulating economic activity, and
providing public goods and services. It can also
create an enabling environment for the private sector
to thrive and for civil society to flourish.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ACTORS IN GOVERNANCE

Source: UNDP (1997)

The PRIVATE SECTOR drives economic growth,

innovation, and job creation. It also contributes to
the development of the country through taxes and
other forms of investment.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ACTORS IN GOVERNANCE

Source: UNDP (1997)

CIVIL SOCIETY provides a platform for citizens

to express their views and participate in decision-
making processes. It also holds the state and private
sector accountable, promoting transparency and
good governance.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

CORRELATION BETWEEN THE STATE, PRIVATE

SECTOR, AND CIVIL SOCIETY

Creates a favorable political, legal, Engages society in

and economic environment for the governance at all levels
business sector
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

CORRELATION BETWEEN THE STATE, PRIVATE

SECTOR, AND CIVIL SOCIETY

Creates opportunities for people Supports states in policy

and environment implementation
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

CORRELATION BETWEEN THE STATE, PRIVATE

SECTOR, AND CIVIL SOCIETY

Mobilizes people’s participation Drives business base on

as an active agent in policy values and consumption
formulation patterns
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

The state, private sector, and civil society are interdependent and play complementary
roles in shaping the economic, social, and political landscape of a society.

In a well-functioning society, these key players should work together to address the needs
and aspirations of citizens, create economic opportunities, support social and
environmental sustainability, and promote GOOD GOVERNANCE.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

GOOD GOVERNANCE
Good Governance is, among other things, participatory, transparent and accountable. It is
also effective and equitable and promotes the rule of law. It ensures that political, social and
economic priorities are based on broad consensus in society and that the voices of the
poorest and the most vulnerable are heard in decision-making over the allocation of
development resources.

It guarantees that public resources are used efficiently and effectively, corruption is
minimized, and the needs and aspirations of citizens are addressed. It also helps to build
trust in the government and institutions, promoting stability and encouraging economic
growth and development.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

Source: UNDP (1997)

CONSENSUS
ORIENTED

RULE OF LAW ACCOUNTABILITY

EFFECTIVENESS
PARTICIPATION AND
EFFICIENCY EQUITY
RESPONSIVENESS AND
INCLUSIVENESS
TRANSPARENCY
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

Participation by both men and women is a key

cornerstone of good governance All men and women
PARTICIPATION
should have a voice in decision making, either directly or
through legitimate intermediate institutions that represent
their interests. Such broad participation is built on
freedom of association and speech, as well as capacities
to participate constructively.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

Good governance requires fair legal frameworks that are

enforced impartially. It also requires full protection of
human rights, particularly those of minorities. Impartial RULE OF LAW

enforcement of laws requires an independent judiciary

and an impartial and incorruptible police force.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

Transparency is built on the free flow of information.

Processes, institutions and information are directly
TRANSPARENCY
accessible to those concerned with them, and enough
information is provided to understand and monitor them.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

Institutions and processes try to serve all stakeholders.

Good governance requires that institutions and processes RESPONSIVENESS
try to serve all stakeholders within a reasonable
timeframe.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

There are several actors and as many viewpoints in each

society. Good governance requires mediation of the
CONSENSUS
ORIENTED different interests in society to reach a broad consensus
in society on what is in the best interest of the whole
community and how this can be achieved.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

A society’s well being depends on ensuring that all its

members feel that they have a stake in it and do not feel EQUITY
excluded from the mainstream of society. This requires AND
INCLUSIVENESS
all groups, but particularly the most vulnerable, have
opportunities to improve or maintain well being.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

Good governance means that processes and institutions

produce results that meet the needs of society while
EFFECTIVENESS
AND
making the best use of resources at their disposal. The
EFFICIENCY concept of efficiency in the context of good governance
also covers the sustainable use of natural resources and
the protection of the environment.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

KEY ELEMENTS OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

Accountability is a key requirement of good governance.

Not only governmental institutions but also the private
sector and civil society organizations must be ACCOUNTABILITY
accountable to the public and to their institutional
stakeholders. Accountability cannot be enforced without
transparency and the rule of law.
III. Concept of Governance and its Key Elements

GOOD GOVERNANCE
Good governance is important because it ensures the efficient and effective
management of a country or organization. It leads to transparent and
accountable decision-making, protection of human rights, and provision of
basic services to citizens.

It also promotes economic development and reduces corruption, thereby

enhancing the overall quality of life for the population. Good governance is
essential for building trust, creating stability, and achieving long-term
sustainability.
 “The greatest lesson I have learned is that
public servants should feel obliged to heed the
people’s will always. Public servants are
servant leaders. Their mission is to serve and
not to be served.”

- Jesse Robredo
Philippines Exemplary Fiscal Management Award by the DILG, 1989
Dangal ng Bayan Award by the Civil Service Commission, 1990
The Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines, 1991
Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World, 1996
Konrad Adenauer Medal of Excellence, 1996
Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service, 2000
Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award (posthumous) by the Civil Service Commission, 2012
References:

1. Kuno S. and A. Eicher (2013). Public Management - Relations between administration and politics

2. Demir, Tansu, and Ronald C. Nyhan. 2008. “The Politics–Administration Dichotomy: An Empirical Search for Correspondence
between Theory and Practice.” Public Administration Review 68, no. 1: 81-96.

3. 1987 Philippine Constitution

4. Asian Development Bank, (2005), Governance: Sound Development Management.

5. United Nations Development Programme 1997a Reconceptualizing Governance. Discussion Paper 2. New York: Management
Development and Governance Division, Bureau of Policy and Programme Support, UNDP, January.

6. Ma. Oliva Z. Domingo, Third Sector Governance: Meanings, Issues, and Challenges in the Philippines, National College of Public
Administration and Governance, University of the Philippines

7. https://www.jeywin.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Optional-Public-Administration-6-Administrative-Systems.pdf

8. https://www.academia.edu/31510391/Philippine_Administrative_System_A_fusion_of_East_and_West

9. https://lemp.io/what-is-philippine-administrative-system/#0