Ethical Concerns on Digital Innovations of the Philippine Carabao Center in Region III: Basis for an Ethical and Inclusive Digital Governance Framework for Farmers’ Cooperative and Association

Abstract

This study investigated the ethical concerns on digital innovation of the Philippine Carabao Center and anchored on the Ethical Framework for Public Sector Innovation (OECD, 2019), it examined how technology-driven service delivery aligns with the ethical principles of fairness, accountability, and inclusivity. By using a descriptive quantitative research design, data were collected from 118 farmer-members representing five farmers’ cooperatives and associations. Findings revealed that respondents perceived PCC’s digital initiatives, particularly the iREB Dashboard as highly accessible, transparent, and accountable. Ethical considerations such as data privacy, digital equity, and informed consent were generally upheld, reflecting that PCC adheres to responsible data management and promotes inclusivity among its users. However, issues related to connectivity and varying digital literacy levels among marginalized groups remain barriers to full participation in digital governance. This study concludes that while digital transformation enhances efficiency and transparency in public administration, equitable access and ethical safeguards are vital to achieving sustainable and inclusive governance. Recommendations were proposed to strengthen ethical policies, expanding capacity-building programs, and digital literacy programs to bridge the remaining gaps in accessibility and participation among farmers’ cooperatives and associations.