Participatory Governance and Public Service Delivery

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between participatory governance mechanisms and public service delivery in selected barangays of Iloilo City, Philippines. Anchored on the Community-Driven Development (CDD) framework, the research employed a quantitative, cross-sectional survey design involving 93 barangay officials. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire measuring participatory governance and public service delivery across multiple dimensions. Descriptive statistics and nonparametric inferential tests were utilized, including the Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, and Spearman’s rho. Results revealed that both participatory governance and public service delivery were perceived at very high levels. No significant differences were found when variables were classified according to age, sex, educational attainment, length of service, and location. However, a very strong and statistically significant relationship was established between participatory governance and public service delivery (r = 0.901, p < .001). The findings affirm that inclusive and participatory governance mechanisms are critical drivers of effective public service delivery at the grassroots level. The study contributes empirical evidence to governance scholarship and offers policy-relevant insights for strengthening democratic local governance.