Decentralization 2

MPSM | Local government administration
Local government administration

DECENTRALIZATION
and Local government
Honesty Marie Hidalgo * Norhanna P. Paporo * Ma. Silva P. Dalman DECENTRALIZATION

Honesty Marie Hidalgo * Norhanna P. Paporo * Ma. Silva P. Dalman and
Masters in Public Service Management * A.Y. 2017-2018 *Capitol University
Masters in Public Service Management * A.Y. 2017-2018 *Capitol University Local government
To understand DECENTRALIZATION OR LOCAL

ADMINISTRATION, one has to understand what
local government is and how it relates to the higher
level of government as well as that governments
instrumentalities.
One has to understand how local governments

relate to their respective clientele: the people.
DECENTRALIZATION
TOPIC OUTLINE
The Nature and State of Local
Government
Decentralization Towards Democratization
and Development in the Asian Pacific
Region
Governance in Local Communities:
Towards Development and Democracy
Decentralization and Local Autonomy: A
Framework for Assessing Progress
DECENTRALIZATION
The NATURE and STATE

of
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
DECENTRALIZATION
The Nature and State of
Local Government
Local Government as Territorial and

Political Subdivisions
Two levels of government:
(1) Upper level = sovereign nation/ government of
whole country.
(2) Below the nation = government of the parts
(levels may vary accdg. to political pattern and
historical experience of each nation.
2 Major kinds of government: Federal

(US, Canada, India) vs. Unitary
(Philippines, and most 3rd WC)
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
Central govt in
federal state = states or provinces
unitary state = nation as a whole
Two levels of government:
(1) Upper level = sovereign nation/ government of whole
country.
(2) Below the nation = government of the parts (levels may
vary accdg. to political pattern and historical experience of
each nation.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
Local governments, defined

= political subdivisions of a nation or state (UN, 1962)
= parts of the govt of a nation or state of a country, non-
sovereign communities with subordinate states
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
ELEMENTS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Element of subordination/ presence of
higher authority
By nature, local govts. are subordinate entities
having no inherent powers and must look up to the
higher governmental level for delineation of authority.
Element of territorial boundary of

governance
= geographic subdivisions
= restricted geographic areas, dealing with matters re:
people living in a particular locality
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
LOCAL GOVT as LEGAL AUTHORITIES PROVIDING
SERVICES
Possesses rights and the necessary
organization to regulate their affairs (by
locally elected/ appointed officials
Local self-determination / autonomy
(dependent on delegated authorities and
local capability)
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
Salient Features and Distinctions
1. Layers of Local Autonomy (at least 2 Tiers):
(1) provinces, counties, prefectures, regional or
metropolitan govts;
(2) basic units= cities, municipalities, townships,
districts, etc)= services: sanitation, protection to lives
and property, and provision of public utilities.
No. of tiers dependent on (GPUC): geography,

population, number of basic units, and degree of
centralization. Philippines has several layers due to
geographic peculiarities, centralist experience, historical
basis of its barangays.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
2. Field Organization and Local Govt.
LGUs field units of national govt.
Field offices of NGs perform specific govtal functions in
designated areas, and the nature of their delegated
functions is ADMINISTRATIVE. (issuance of
Administrative orders)
LGUs perform a no. of services, and the authority they
exercise is POLITICAL in nature. (e.g. Power of
legislation (thru elected/selected councils who also
exercise power of taxation)
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
3. LGUs as General Purpose Authorities
LGUs may be distinguished from special purpose
authorities in terms of functions.
Special purpose authorities = perform limited functions.
LGUs = perform multiple functions.
4. LGUs as Municipal Corporations
Municipal Corp. = governmental (public) and corporate/ proprietary
(private) functions
LGUs = perform dual roles: 1. as an instrumentality of the national
govt. (implementation of natl law within the local territory (agent of
the state) and 2. as a local govt. (eg. Enactment of ordinance)
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
Power to create municipal corporations is inherent in
SOVEREIGNTY. Constitution provides for the manner
or creation of municipal corp., but that power is usually
vested in the legislature, which has no power to
delegate its authority, but they usually recognize the
existence of communities existing corporate power.
Congress by law creates LGUs, although plebiscite

among the affected residents is a prerequisite before
actual operation. Congress may alter boundaries, with
local consent.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
5. Rationale for LGUs
The emergence of central govts. Weakened the
strength and sovereignty enjoyed by city states. But
they continued to exist to perform certain functions=
provide sense of identity to disparate communities.
LGUs promote liberty by providing additional and
more readily available points of access, pressure
and control; promotes equality by providing for
wide-scale participation and fostering, on the part of
the govt. responsiveness and flexibility; provides
welfare or service (demands will be heard and
needs will be served).
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
5. Rationale for LGUs
Dual purposes: provide greater peoples participation
and services consistent with national policies.
6. Local Govt. Systems

*Aldefer classified Local govt systems into 4 basic
types: French (hierarchical, centralized, executive
domination & legislative dominance); English
(decentralized, legislative dominance); Soviet (hierarchical,
decentralized, led by 1 party); and Traditional (powers
exercised by headman and council of elders).
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
6. Local Govt. Systems
*IULA classification (in terms of geography + culture):
a. Anglo-Saxon- UK, Australia, Union of South Africa, Canada, US
b. Central & Northwest Europe Group Germany, Austria, Switzerland, The
Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg
c. East Europe Soviet Union, Poland, Bulgaria & Yugoslavia
d. South Europe France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal
e. West Asia and North Africa all Islamic countries, mostly Arab or Arab-
influenced
f. South Asia and East Africa (India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Burma, Sudan,
Ethiopia
g. East Asia Thailand, Philippines, Japan
Philippines is actually categorized as resembling Southern European or the
French pattern. Our LG system is a colonial experience transplanted by Spain
and continued by America.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
7. Local Autonomy & Related Concepts
Local Autonomy = degree of self determination exercised by the
LGUs vis a vis the central govt. To attain local autonomy, a necessary
prerequisite is DECENTRALIZATION.
DECENTRALIZATION comes in 2 forms:

1. Deconcentration administrative in nature; transfer of functions
from the national office to the regional and local offices;
redistribution of admin responsibilities only within the central govt.
agency;
2. Devolution political decentralization/ transfer of powers from the
central govt. to LGUs; creation of independent levels and units of
govt; LGUs are perceived to be separate levels over which central
authorities exercise less or no direct control.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991 (R.A. 7160)
Devolved to the LGUs the administration of 5 basic services
(conducted before by the national govt.)
1. Health
2. Agriculture
3. Maintenance of public works and highways
4. Social welfare
5. Environmental protection
Autonomous LGU = attained a measure of decentralization/

devolution. greater taxing powers + greater prerogative to
determine priorities in the admin of certain services / the earmarking
of resources
Extent of autonomy varies according to policies of the central govt.
as well as to the capability of respective LGUs to exercise devolved
powers. (eg. Levy of taxes, tap services, fund activities,etc.)
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991 (R.A. 7160)
National devt.= a goal that can be achieved thru effective
partnership bet. Central and local govts. Each one performing a
service as an aspect of a function which it can adequately perform.
E.g. Central govt. may analyze and integrate data, provide guidelines and
standards of performance, grant subsidies, provide technical assistance,
install a system of control. Local govt., meanwhile, may provide data
inputs, identify local needs, initiate project proposals, provide counterpart
funds, translate plans into action, provide operating personnel, stimulate
local participation, and assess program impact.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN THE PHILIPPINES
Historical background
Ancient community headed by Datu upon consultation with a Council of Elders.
(with help of Babaylan cultural and scientific aspects) Barangays were not
LGUs but had a status of citystates.
Spanish Rule Centralization = weapon of Spain in colonizing Philippines.
Barangay became lowest unit / reduced into barrios
American experience centralizationconvenient system. Provincias=
provinces, cabildos = cities, pueblos = municipalities
1935 Constitution = mentioned local govt in 1 section: Art VI Sec 10. the
President shall exercise gen. supervision over local govts. as may be provided
by law.
1973 Constitution & Creation of Dept of Local Govt and Community Devt. (PD 1).
Pmarcos created and abolished offices
1986 People Power onwards - natl govt became more responsive to the lower
units of govt. 1987 Consti provided special forms of Local govt in response to
ethnic peculiarities in Muslim Mindanao and the Cordilleras. LGC of 1991 was
passed
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE 1991
Philippines remains unitary despite devolution of
powers.
Criteria in creating local units (LPI):
1. Province = land area: at least 2,000 sq.km., population: not less than 250,000 (certified by
PSA), income: P20M (certified by DOF)
2. City = land area: at least 100 sq.km., population: 150,000, income: P10M
3. Municipality = land area: at least 50 sq.km., population: 25,000, income: P2.5M
4. Barangay = population: 2,000; for Metropolitan Manila, barangays should have a minimum
population of 5,000.
While these local units may be created by law, the LGC mandates that residents of the
areas affected by the creation should approve the measure in a PLEBISCITE. The LGC
mandates that the creation of the local unit shall not reduce the land area, population
and income of the original unit or units at the time of the creation to less than the
prescribed minimum requirements.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
Tiers of Local Govt.
Philippines has several levels of local authority. (Province
Municipality & Component Cities Barangays.
Prior to LGC- all cities were autonomous from province. BP 337
classified cities into: component cities and highly urbanized cities
(considered viable enough to perform their fnx. & services; allowed
to retain autonomy from province.
Elected officials and ex-officio members (local presidents of league
of brgys, presidents of local federation of the SK and Presidents of
Fed. Of Sanggunian Members + Sectoral reps (1 from women, 1
from workers (agri/ industrial, depending on area) and 1 from special
sectors (IPs, UP/ disabled)
Vice Gov & Vice Mayors are presiding officers of respective
Sanggunians.
Appointive Officials
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Government
Services sanitation, operate markets and other utilities (on agri,

health, social welfare, maintenance of public works and highways,
and environmental protection)
Funds authorized by law to impose certain taxes to support their
activities (share in internal revenue tax is 40% (from 20%)[ 34% to.
municipalities, 23% to cities, 23% to provinces, and 20% to
barangays]. IRA is divided accdg. to: 50% by population, 25% area,
25% equal sharing. Barangays did not share from IRA before. LGUs
impose real property tax, tax on business; cities and municipalities
impose amusement tax; brgy. Clearance is now needed in securing
permits
DECENTRALIZATION
DECENTRALIZATION
Towards DEMOCRATIZATION
+ DEVELOPMENT in the
ASIA PACIFIC REGION
DECENTRALIZATION
Decentralization towards Democratization +
Development in the Asia Pacific Region
The most dramatic steps in the process of

political restructuring have been in the form of
dispersing or decentralizing the highly
centralized power structure.
DECENTRALIZATION
Decentralization as a strategy towards democratizing the political

system and accelerating the attainment of sustainable development
has been an enduring issue in the landscape of public administration
practice
Decentralization (allows lower levels to decide on issues that

concern themselves directly) vs. centralization (power
concentrated in the center/ at the top echelons)
recognized as a mechanism that will foster democratization
in the equitable distribution of power, resources and services will
rationally be deployed to habitually neglected groups and communities
in contrast to the existing practice which concentrates these to the
center
DECENTRALIZATION
Democratization systematic and rational dispersal of power,

authority and responsibility from the center to the periphery, from the
top to the lower levels, or from the national to the local govts.
4 approaches in decentralization of the burueacracy:

1. Devolution
2. Deconcentration
3. Privatization
4. Use of non-governmental organizations
DECENTRALIZATION
Deconcentration refers to delegation of authority and responsibility

by the central offices to the regional district, and other filed offices of
the national offices. (to facilitate administration of national programs
and services administrative decentralization)
Privatization transfer of responsibility for certain governmental

functinos to the private sector. (thru sale of govt owned corps. To
private sector, contracting private agencies for infra projects, mgt. of
public mkts. And other public enterprises.
Use of NGOs and other alternative channels mobilization of NGOs

and COs for planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of
govt. programs to make govt actions more responsive to the needs and
demands of those who truly deserve govt. assistance, and graft &
corruption.
DECENTRALIZATION
Because devt. requires unity of effort, rational allocation of resources to

meet competing needs and speed in policy decision making, it is
argued that the powers of govt. must be centralized.
Counter argument: The crucial issue of development is the generation

of widespread initiative, effort and social responsibility throughout the
society political/ governmental power must be decentralized.
Decentralization democratization : by allowing fuller citizen

participation in government affairs. Decentralization will improve local
self-reliance and administrative efficiency and suit official actions to
local conditions.
DECENTRALIZATION
DECENTRALIZATION IN THE ASIAN PACIFIC REGION
Most are characterized

by excessive
centralization due to :
1. Experience in
colonization and
monarchical rule
2. Task of nation/ state
building during the
post-colonial period,
and
3. Centralist theory of
development in the
1950s and 1960s
DECENTRALIZATION
Honesty Marie Hidalgo * Norhanna P. Paporo * Ma. Silva P. Dalman and Local government
Masters in Public Service Management * A.Y. 2017-2018 *Capitol University
- (Siedentopf 1987:7)
DECENTRALIZATION in the AP Region have a long and hard

history. LGUs preceded nation states. Before colonial govts. Came to
sow the seeds of centralism, in some of these countries, village govts.
Have long been in existence comprising several no. of households.
(e.g. barangay in the Philippines, panchayat in Indo-Pakistan sub
continent, sultanates in Malaysia, small kingdom in Nepal and gam
sabbawas in Sri Lanka
The colonizers super-imposed on the pre-existing structures a

system of LGUs to faciliate the COLLECTION of TRIBUTES and
MAINTENANCE of PEACE and ORDER.
DECENTRALIZATION
JAPAN
Meiji govt. installed Fu or Ken (prefectures) as national admin units
replacing more than 300 govts. Of feudalistic lords (Shogun period);
managed its own social and economy system and retained own military
force and bureacratic system.
Successive local admin reforms ensued that led to the enactment of
Municipality Act + the Prefecture Act in 1888, recognizing local public entity
must share the responsibility of national admin and that thru the adoption of
limited representative democracy at the LGU level, people would attain the
experience in modern govtal admin.
Post WWII, Japan undertook a thoroughgoing admin decentralization.
Present consti of Japan (1947) contains provisions protecting local
autonomy.
Municipality- fundamental local public entity that manages activities related
to citizens basic needs: family reg, construction and maintenance of parks,
water and sewerage system, garbage and waste disposal systems, sewage
systems, location and maintenance of schools for compulsory education
and maintenance of fire defense unit.
DECENTRALIZATION
JAPAN
Functions, responsibilities and financial powers (Local Tax Act (1950); local
equalization fund System was created, local tax allocation system was
installed) were devolved to local governments
Later, LGUs have enlarged their administrative activities and increased their
expenditure in the high economic growth period serious financial
shortages. Japan then embarked on the adoption of a measure to utilize the
vitality of PRIVATE SECTOR in carrying out its development and service
delivery functions (to minimize costs= office maintenance, garbage
collection, provision of lunch to school children, etc.) . Japan embarked on
the use of 3rd Sector (public + private sectors) for operating a cooperative
enterprise. The use of 3rd Sector proved successful= flexibility, efficiency
and speed in public service.
Not all privatization efforts were successful. Conditions for success: 1.
proper selection of the enterprise, 2. mgt. arrangements including control
over enterprise by LGUs, 3. presence of entrepreneurial spirit, and 4
devising of methods to acquire support and participation of residents.
DECENTRALIZATION
South Korea
Tradition of highly centralized govt.
Few experiences of local autonomous institutions:
Hyangso and Hyangyak but did not function as political
institutions.
Consti of RK = 1 chapter/ 2 articles on local autonomy.
Later, a Local Autonomy Law was passed (7/4/1949)
stipulating among others:
1. Indirect election of heads of cities, towns and villages by members of
their respective assemblies and appointment by the President of the
Republic of provincial governors and mayors of the special city;
2. Levels and types of local autonomous entities; and
3. Scope of functions of local autonomous entities.
First popular elections for local assemblies were held in April 1952 during the Korean War. Elections for provincial
assemblies were held in May of the same year except in provinces in the war zones.
DECENTRALIZATION
South Korea
For years, decentralization efforts were difficult due to lack of
support from its leaders.
1980 strong movements for democratization
March 26, 1991 1st election for the composition of local assemblies
in cities, counties and wards. June 1991 election for provincial and
special city councils.
Saemaul movement centered on the rural villages shaped and
guided by Koreas strongly centralized admin system.
Privatization of Saemaul Undong by the 5th Republic to enable it
to provide more flexible responses suitable to the conditions of each
village and also to encourage positive voluntary participation and 2-
way communication for the movements.
Deconcentration establishment of the Integrated Regional
Settlement Areas (IRSA)
DECENTRALIZATION
China
Decentralization to Centralization=Birth of PRC, socialist public
ownership was introduced and the state sector of the economy
assumed a guiding role. Switch (predominantly decentralization to
centralization) was necessary to rehab the national economy,
stabilize market prices, and prepare for planned economic
construction;
Great Leap Forward. Reform sought to delegate more powers to
localities= enthusiasm of various localities and help expand local
industries. But changes were all too sudden and the loss of macro-
control over scale of investment, the number of workers and staff
members and the total amount of wages undermined the necessary
centralization, causing blind and anarchic production.
Period of adjustment (1960s) back to centralization.
New form of decentralization in 1978 = introduction of the contract
responsibility system. System links pay with output quick results
DECENTRALIZATION
Philippines
Political decentralization efforts and local autonomy began as early
as 1898 (Malolos Constitution). Legislative assemblies were
organized at the municipal level to fulfil a basic criterion of local
autonomy and whose delegates were indirectly chosen by the
people.
1902-1935 = Americans took over the reins of govt. Powers of LGUs
were curbed by subsequent measures adopted during the American
regime
Political ind. In 1946= inherited highly centralized unitary system of
govt. Local Autonomy Act vested in cities, municipalities certain fnx.
And broadened taxing powers with the general framework of the
national tax laws.
1967 Decentralization Act, devolved certain political powers and
administrative fnx. To city and municipal govts. Including power to
create positions and appoint certain provincial and city officials
DECENTRALIZATION

Philippines
Imposition of Martial Law (1972-1981) eroded the trend towards
more autonomy. Elections of local officials were suspended
Instances of decentralization during ML: 1. creation of regional
govts., creation of regional offices of national govt dept.; 3. creation
of regional devt councils; and 4. adoption of integrated area devt.
Approaches. Directed more towards transfer of power and authority
to field offices of line agencies than towards LGUs.
1987 Constitution enshrined the principle of local autonomy. LGUs
are provided with more effective powers greater responsibilities, and
more sources of revenue to ensure their fullest devt as self reliant
communities
Local Govt Code of 1991 devolution of 4 major govtal services
health, agri, public works and highways and social welfare.
Deconcentration and devolution of powers took place
DECENTRALIZATION
Malaysia
After independence was highly centralized. Govt was however
obliged to initiate decentralization measures given its federal
structure and its new focus on improving the welfare of the
population particularly those in rural areas.
Most decentralization efforts deconcentration of authority=
exercised by state and district level officers under various dept. Or
industries. Ministries set up integrated devt projects
Decentralizatio = through establishment of district administration,
deconcentration of field agencies of depts/ ministries, creation of
Regional Devt Authorities and establishment of new land rehab
agencies; creation of semi-autonomour corporate orgs (MADA,
FOA, KADA); set up of NGOs/ farmers orgs.
Privatization is rampant in Malaysia due financial constraints and as
a move towards greater efficiency.
DECENTRALIZATION
Malaysia
After independence was highly centralized. Govt was however
obliged to initiate decentralization measures given its federal
structure and its new focus on improving the welfare of the
population particularly those in rural areas.
Most decentralization efforts deconcentration of authority=
exercised by state and district level officers under various dept. Or
industries. Ministries set up integrated devt projects
Decentralizatio = through establishment of district administration,
deconcentration of field agencies of depts/ ministries, creation of
Regional Devt Authorities and establishment of new land rehab
agencies; creation of semi-autonomour corporate orgs (MADA,
FOA, KADA); set up of NGOs/ farmers orgs.
Privatization is rampant in Malaysia due financial constraints and as
a move towards greater efficiency.
DECENTRALIZATION
Thailand
Characterized by absolute monarchical regimes until the Revolution/
Coup d etat of 1932 (turned to limited monarchy under democratic
regime).
Reign of King Rama V system of local govt was introduced.
Sanitation district was first self govt unit.
Over the past 100 yrs. the Thai administrative system has not
managed to break away from the system of power of centralization.
Numerous NGOs are present but of varying natures due to govts
attitude of mistrust, lack of experience in handling complex
problems; and lack of resources, manpower and financial, to fully
support rural devt activities.
DECENTRALIZATION
IMPERATIVES FOR DECENTRALIZATION TO WORK

Immediacy of having a cogent understanding of the directions,
strains and conflicts attendance to the efforts at democratization
have become imperative if only to assess appropriate mechanisms
and institutions of local governance among resurgent democracies
Lack of consistent political will, resolve or commitment among the
regimes after regimes are key
History of most countries show alternating trends towards
centralization and decentralization
Important to assess weakness of past policies and structures to
allow decentralization efforts to thrive and be preserved.
For decentralization to prosper under redemocratization, it is impt to
ensure conditions that will be appropriate for it.
Resources and capacities (e.g. To generate own sources of
revenues) make decentralization limited
DECENTRALIZATION
IMPERATIVES FOR DECENTRALIZATION TO WORK

China and Philippines selective decentralization thru pilot testing
to better operationalize decentralization policies. Done with
workable approaches accdg to conditions and peculiarities of each
province. Selective decentralization, if applied to limited territories,
will widen the gap between the developed and underdeveloped
states. Instead of decentralizing power, funx. And responsibilities
territorially, selective decentralization accdg to functional areas may
be applied. (e.g. natl govt. through regional field office to undertake
road construction upon request of the LGU.
DECENTRALIZATION
Dimensions of Administrative capability:

1. Leadership provide in the delivery of the given service has to be
increased; interest in expanding locally-administered programs and
projects; ability to gain financial and technical support from external
sources + ability to ensure maximum output from scarce resources.
2. Structure improve organizational structure of LGUs to ensure the
administration and delivery of services is not hampered by changes of
leadership. (e.g.delineation or proper allocation of powers/ fnx. In the
planning and implementation of devt. Programs)
3. Financial Resources grant of power and responsibilities should be
accompanied by an appropriate devolution of the power to raise revenues.
LGUs should be entitled to as much, if not all, of the govt. revenues
derived from areas, including collection from taxes paid by corporations
operating in the area.
4. Personnel pool of competent and well-qualified personnel. If competent
people are to be recruited to serve in the LGUs, a system of promotions
that provides for a career ladder for LGU personnel should be developed
DECENTRALIZATION
Implications for Education & Training of LGU Officials:

There is a need to LGU training & research institutions in various
countries in the region in addition to schools/ institutes of public
admin already established
In the Philippines, the ff have been established: LG Center in
NCPAG in UP, LG Academy in the DILG. In Japan, the Local
Autonomy College in the Ministry of Home Affairs; in Korea, the
Local Admin Training Institute.
It is highly recommended that trends and devts. In decentralization
in the region should get reflected in the curricular programs and
training courses being offered by various schools/ colleges/
universities/ institutes.
DECENTRALIZATION
Implications for Education & Training of LGU Officials:

Public admin should be given a broader meaning= new approach
should be developed that would consider alternative delivery
systems (e.g. private sector, ngos and coops as appropriate areas of
concern for Public admin student.
LGU officials and personnel must be familiar with new skills and
knowledge to cope with the urgent demands of managing major
issues (performance, standards, productivity in govt. and doing more
or less.)
Content of the policy or program being delivered (housing, health,
infra, agri extension, & credit) should be given emphasis and not just
the traditional emphasis on structures and processes of mgt and
implementation.
DECENTRALIZATION
Governance in Local
Communities:
Towards Development &
Democracy
DECENTRALIZATION
Towards Development & Democracy
Governance of local communities in the

Philippines has had a long and checkered history.
One may discern general trends towards greater
decentralization and broader participation.
However, these may be true more in law and form
than in practice. Besides fluctuations in favor of
central control occur all along the way.
DECENTRALIZATION
The Basics of Local Governance

Governance exercise of political, economic, and administrative
authority to manage a nations affairs. It is complex mechanisms,
processes, relationships and institutions through which citizens and
groups articulate their interests, exercise their rights & obligations &
mediate their differencesIt embraces all of the methods good and
bad, that societies use to distribute power and manage public
resources and problems
Local Governance - refers to corresponding processes &
structures at sub-national level; it is affected by the scheme of
distributing power and resources among the hierarchy of areas in a
given territory which may range from centralization to
decentralization.
DECENTRALIZATION
4 Ways in Accomplishing Decentralization:

1. Deconcentration delegation of authority & responsibility by
national govt. depts. To their field units; arrangement is
administrative in nature and implies no transfer of final authority
from the natl. dept. whose responsibility for that service continues.
2. Devolution is the transfer of powers to a level closer to the
people who choose its officials. It is exemplified by the provisions of
the LGC giving the responsibility of administering selected health,
agri, environment and natural resources, public works and
highways, and social welfare fnx. To LGUs.
3. Privatization transfer of responsibility to business firm (LRT,
MRT)
4. Transfer to NGOs and community organizations of certain fnx.
Usually performed by govt. not yet accomplished for local
governance. This is still being encouraged by 1987 Consti.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local governance may take place under 2 governmental systems:

unitary and federal. Unitary maintains clear hierarchy bet. National
and local levels with powers enjoyed by subordinate units. Being
delegated by the superior. Federal maintains fiction of the primary
division (state or commonwealth) mandating powers of the center.
Goals of governance are the same whatever the level of the area
to achieve the aims of acknowledged sovereign. (e.g. a monarchy is
supposed to work for the crown, democracy for the people).
Democracy seen as that system of relationship of the governor to
the governed which blurs their distinctive roles so that citizens are
not simply ruled over, but have more say on matters affecting their
lieves.
Other goal of governance is to get things done. (more services to
the people)
Local governance always a part of national/ local relations.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Governance in Philippine Historical Epochs

Pre-Spanish rule. Philippines started as separate territories with no
central govt. over them. Islamic areas had then more elaborate
structures.
Spanish rule. Stripped communities of sovereignty and coopted the
systems of governance. Put over representatives of the Crown and
the Cross. No shortage of laws providing mechanisms of
accountability to God and the King. Local autonomy and justice not
enjoyed by the natives. Centralized. No democracy.
Philippine Revolution. Govt. of Emilio Aguinaldo = temporary
dictatorship. Limited suffrage. LGUs were expected to be solid
robust organization, necessary for securing union of discipline for
the establishment of a Republic
American Regime. McKinleys Instructions to the Ph Comm =
decenralization
DECENTRALIZATION

American Regime. McKinleys Instructions to the Ph Comm = in
reality, Americans re-centralized Ph, becoming more efficacious in
subduing the natives. Public education was espoused heavily. Wider
suffrage. Still power and authority were centralized.
1950s to 60s decentralization movement. Ramon Magsaysay
brought barrios into national conscious thru focus on community
devt. To bring govt. down to the lowest possible unit and to involve
people in governance by responding to their felt needs thru self-help
and self-reliance.
1973 Constitution/ Martial Law. Mandated passing of LGC to define
a more responsive and accountable LG structure. Cabinet level
organization, Ministry of Local Govt & Community Devt. For the
supervision, development and assistance to LGUs. The Code
materialized in 1983-stronger local autonomy provisions limiting
transactions & operations that needed central approval.
DECENTRALIZATION

Devolution did not advance under Martial Law although
there was formal increase in citizen participation in
governance. 1973 Consticitizens power of recall of
unsatisfactory local officials and power to approve/
disapprove any change in the existing form of govt. or
changes of boundaries of their respective local units.
Protests of ML increased the scope of local governance.
NGOs and Peoples orgs developed as a counter-
movement.
Deconcentration was an impt feature of Marcos
dictatorship. Country was divided into administrative
regions.
DECENTRALIZATION

1986 People Power Revolution led to a new govt that declared all
govt. positions, appointive and elective, vacant.
1987 Constitution provided for a strong local autonomy.
Local Government Code (LGC) of 1991- dramatic change in the
national-local balance of power. Devolved several basic services to
LGUs, increased share of national revenues, allowed them greater
leeway in passing tax measures, and installed mechanisms for
peoples participation in governance.
Governance structure has widened considerably since 1986 with
consti provisions promoting and encouraging NGO, Community-
based or sectoral orgs that promote the welfare of the ntion.
Identification of the Cordilleras and Muslim Mindanao regions
sharing common and distinctive historical and cultural heritage,
economic and social structures etc.
DECENTRALIZATION
Democratic Gains
Over time, changes in local governance have moved towards
greater democratization although not inexorably, since swings to the
opposite can be seen bet. One period to another, and bet. Formal &
the effective
Peoples will- further directly sought thru diverse procedures of
democracy (suffrage, regular elections, institution of process of
recall and requirement of plebiscites for creating & abolishing LGUs)
Role of civil society=> community dev. Movement => stressed self-
help + self-reliance
Democratization becomes more complicated, groups of people
formerly ignored are now identified as having unique cultures and
aspirations that must be conserved and upheld by the state.
Democracy has gained even in deconcentration strategies as
increased access of the people thru field offices pressure them to be
responsive
DECENTRALIZATION
Development Gains
Decentralization is also meant to achieve greater efficiency &
effectiveness for the attainment of devt. Goals.
Overcome severe limitations of central planning
Cut through red tape
Increase information re: local needs
Develop admin capacity of subnational units
Relieve top officials of routine tasks
Improve coordination
Integrated isolated or lagging areas into wider economics,
reduce diseconomics of scale and improve efficiency.
DECENTRALIZATION
The Role of the University of the Philippines

Institutional UP involvement started with the period of the Decentralization
Movement. Community Devt. Was recognized as a discipline in the country.
UP was an independent variable in the further devt. Of Community Devt
Community Devt. Research Council later College of Social Work and
Community Devt provided research bases; the College of Public Admin thru
its Local Government Center (CPA-LGC) became a voice in local govt
research, training and advocacy
CPA-LGCs success in getting its proposal approved became a liability upon
redemocratization when Aquino govt relied more on private sector based
advisers and kept distance thinking that CPA-LGC was pro-Marcos entity.
Local Govt Code of 1991 was crafted without the Centers participation.
UP School of Urban and Regional Planning assisted several LGUs in
zoning, land use planning, and their concerns in housing, environment and
similar technical issues . SURP- principal advocate in recent policy to
professionalize environ planning & similar endeavors only to those with
appropriate license.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Governance for the Future

1. Stronger area-wide perspective with LCE at all levels with the
responsibility of all basic services within their realms. LCE would set
directions and develop programs towards them, but would not do so
through state mechanisms alone.
2. Rise of regional govts. And a possible restructuring of the country
into a federal system. These would occur if such experiments as the
ARMM would prove that provinces and cities with common heritage
and culture bonding together under one leadership are better able to
respond to the peoples demands for justice and equity.
3. Delineation of metropolitan areas as a unit of governance. As socio-
economic devt and urbanization proceed, the core cities would
radiate into the periphery, involving them all in a single economy and
society.
DECENTRALIZATION
Decentralization & Local

Autonomy:
A Framework for
Assessing Progress
DECENTRALIZATION
Decentralization & Local Autonomy:
A Framework for Assessing Progress
There is more to be said about decentralization

and local autonomy to provide sound guides to
both national and local policies. But as long as it
wishes to maintain a national political framework,
central government should retain its responsibility
and authority to pursue national objectives
including those associated with local autonomy.
DECENTRALIZATION
Centralization means that the authority, responsibility and ability

to perform basic fnx of an organization are concentrated in a
central governing unit. It may be justified as necessary for
defining a comprehensive and coherent framework of goals &
norms for the govt. and nation as a whole and ensuring the
consistency or compatibility of local activities with that framework
Decentralization itself may require a certain degree of

centralization to be put into effect, because the former usually
entails a redistribution of powers, responsibilities, and resources
that is likely to be resisted by those who lose in the process.
DECENTRALIZATION
Political and social values such as democracy, liberty and

equality are also important and indeed may be overarching
aims of decentralization, and may apply to private as well as
public institutions and communities.
For each claim of decentralization, there may be a valid

counterclaim for some degree of centralization. These two would
have to be balances in some optimum combination.
DECENTRALIZATION
Local Autonomy, however, remains a focal point in the

decentralization process. Viewed generally as the enhanced
freedom of peripheral units of an org. or system, it entails
interrelated processes that need to be more precisely or
operationally defined.
DECENTRALIZATION
Direction of greater local autonomy
DECENTRALIZATION
In order to provide operational criteria and standards by which

local autonomy my be indicated and measured, it may be
meaningful to summarize and characterize autonomous
attributes and attitudes in behavioral terms, as ff:
1. Self determining in terms of goals and fnx
2. Initiative, leadership & discretion in decision-making & action
3. Self-reliant in resources & strategies
4. Open to local participants
5. Responsive & accountable to local constituents
DECENTRALIZATION
DECENTRALIZATION
Elements of Decentralization: Discontinuities & Gaps:
Basic Domains Domains Domains

Elements
Goals Functions Resources
Responsibility X x Y
Authority y x x
Ability (z)
The fuller the matrix cells, the better for decentralization & Local autonomy. X local
unity may be given responsibility for goal-determidation and the exercise of more
performance and resources. They may be given authority over fnx-performance and
resources. But, it may have no or little authority for goal determination and ability-
enhancement and no responsibility commensurate to its authority over resources. It may
have some ability to perform its assigned fnx ((z)), but its authority over resources may
not extend to allocations that it needs to match its requirements to enhance its ability.
DECENTRALIZATION
Modes & Pitfalls

Decentralization in a governmental context may proceed in
the ff sequence:
1. Organizational & Physical deconcentration
2. Administrative delegation
3. Political devolution
4. Popular privatization
The greatest danger is when decentralization does bring

more local autonomy but this falls into the hands of leaders
and groups who are not committed to their basic values
and goals
DECENTRALIZATION
Central Remedies (complementary measures):

1. Determine which kinds of natl policies & standards should be
observed as a minimum reqmnt by all local as well as national
institutions and communities.
2. Define criteria and standards by which the basic values and goals
of decentralization & local autonomy can be specified, evaluated
and if possible measured
3. Institute other policy reforms that would support decentralization
and local autonomy objectives
4. Coordinate national policies, programs, and institutional
frameworks
5. Strengthen national programs of technical and financial assistance
to LGUs, communities and other field institutions.
6. Periodic reviews of the progress and problems of decentralization
and local autonomy, and institution of corrective measures.
DECENTRALIZATION
CONCLUSION: NON-POLICY VARIABLES

Policies are just one, albeit an important one, of the kinds of variables
we should consider in actual evaluations. Non-policy type factors and
actors would influence the actual course of these processes and their
consequences.
International devt. And relations of both inspiring & threatening kinds,

the growing range of national responsibilities, and sheer bureaucratic
inertia could keep the national govt very much in the saddle. Limited
resources, as always could sustain local dependency
DECENTRALIZATION

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MPSM | Local government administration

Local government administration

Honesty Marie Hidalgo * Norhanna P. Paporo * Ma. Silva P. Dalman DECENTRALIZATION

To understand DECENTRALIZATION OR LOCAL

One has to understand how local governments

The NATURE and STATE

Local Government as Territorial and

2 Major kinds of government: Federal

Local governments, defined

ELEMENTS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Element of territorial boundary of

No. of tiers dependent on (GPUC): geography,

Congress by law creates LGUs, although plebiscite

6. Local Govt. Systems

DECENTRALIZATION comes in 2 forms:

Autonomous LGU = attained a measure of decentralization/

Services sanitation, operate markets and other utilities (on agri,

The most dramatic steps in the process of

Decentralization as a strategy towards democratizing the political

Decentralization (allows lower levels to decide on issues that

Democratization systematic and rational dispersal of power,

4 approaches in decentralization of the burueacracy:

Deconcentration refers to delegation of authority and responsibility

Privatization transfer of responsibility for certain governmental

Use of NGOs and other alternative channels mobilization of NGOs

Because devt. requires unity of effort, rational allocation of resources to

Counter argument: The crucial issue of development is the generation

Decentralization democratization : by allowing fuller citizen

DECENTRALIZATION IN THE ASIAN PACIFIC REGION

Most are characterized

DECENTRALIZATION in the AP Region have a long and hard

The colonizers super-imposed on the pre-existing structures a

IMPERATIVES FOR DECENTRALIZATION TO WORK

IMPERATIVES FOR DECENTRALIZATION TO WORK

Dimensions of Administrative capability:

Implications for Education & Training of LGU Officials:

Implications for Education & Training of LGU Officials:

Governance of local communities in the

The Basics of Local Governance

4 Ways in Accomplishing Decentralization:

Local governance may take place under 2 governmental systems:

Local Governance in Philippine Historical Epochs

Local Governance in Philippine Historical Epochs

Local Governance in Philippine Historical Epochs

Local Governance in Philippine Historical Epochs

The Role of the University of the Philippines

Local Governance for the Future

Decentralization & Local

There is more to be said about decentralization

Centralization means that the authority, responsibility and ability

Decentralization itself may require a certain degree of

Political and social values such as democracy, liberty and

For each claim of decentralization, there may be a valid

Local Autonomy, however, remains a focal point in the

Direction of greater local autonomy

In order to provide operational criteria and standards by which

Elements of Decentralization: Discontinuities & Gaps:

Basic Domains Domains Domains

Modes & Pitfalls

The greatest danger is when decentralization does bring

Central Remedies (complementary measures):

CONCLUSION: NON-POLICY VARIABLES

International devt. And relations of both inspiring & threatening kinds,