Abstract
This study investigates the preparedness of the selected first-class LGUs in Quezon Province for the implementation of the Mandanas Ruling and its impact on local governance and capacity building. Drawing on the Decentralization, Social Contract, and Capacity Building frameworks, it assesses preparedness along four dimensions: financial capacity, administrative capability, human resources, and service delivery mechanisms. An explanatory sequential design was employed to collect data from 106 heads of department, using surveys and interviews conducted in the selected first-class municipalities in Quezon, based on BLIGF. The quantitative information and data were analyzed using the mean weight on a four-point Likert scale, while the qualitative part reflected the adaptive measures deployed by LGUs, as well as the challenges they faced.
Results show that respondents agree the ruling improved governance (mean = 2.93), strengthened fiscal autonomy (mean = 2.89), and supported participatory service delivery (mean = 2.89). Financial resources (mean 3.01) and administrative capacity (mean 2.92) indicate a general level of preparedness, yet important gaps remain. These include limited staff orientation on devolved functions, weak financial tracking systems, and uneven coordination with national agencies. The major challenges include unclear guidelines, shortages in manpower, delays in the release of funds, and weak monitoring systems for devolved programs.
The study also recommends completing and strengthening devolution transition plans, enhancing inter-office coordination, improving local revenue generation, and conducting more regular capacity-building activities. National funds must be released on time from the National Tax Allotment by national agencies, and continuous provision of technical assistance in areas with significant administrative and financial difficulties among LGUs must be provided. To support effective decentralization and strengthen their overall preparedness for the Mandanas Ruling, LGUs should upgrade their monitoring systems, improve their human resource development, and institutionalize participatory mechanisms.
Keywords: capacity building, devolution, first class, Local Government, Mandanas Ruling
https://doi.org/10.65494/pinagpalapublishing.67
