Seal of Good Local Governance and Stakeholders’ Satisfaction: A Sequential Explanatory Approach

Abstract

This study investigates the correlation between the conferment of the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and stakeholders' satisfaction with public service delivery in selected cities and municipalities of the First Congressional District of Negros Occidental, Philippines. Anchored in the theories of New Public Management, Public Value Management, and Good Governance, the research evaluates the extent to which Local Government Units (LGUs) fulfill performance standards across ten core governance areas, including financial administration, disaster preparedness, social protection, and environmental management, among others. Employing an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the study integrates quantitative data from 750 respondents, comprising stakeholders and program implementers, with qualitative insights from in-depth interviews. The research instruments demonstrated strong validity and reliability, with a Content Validity Index (CVI) of 0.94, a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.871 for the stakeholders' instrument, and 0.878 for the implementers' instrument. Results reveal a generally high level of satisfaction among stakeholders, indicating that effective implementation of SGLG indicators positively influences public perception and trust. Nonetheless, findings highlight specific areas requiring attention, particularly participatory governance and the sustainability of local programs. These results suggest that while SGLG recognition reflects commendable governance practices, it must be coupled with consistent stakeholder engagement and adaptive strategies to address evolving community needs. The study underscores the importance of transparent, accountable, and community-centered governance. The findings imply that institutionalizing performance-based frameworks like the SGLG can strengthen public administration by aligning service delivery with citizen expectations and governance standards.