Devolution of Social Services in Philippine Local Governments

Balancing local autonomy, capacity, and accountability under executive order 138

Abstract

Decentralization and full devolution remain central governance reforms in the Philippines, yet local government units encounter institutional and fiscal challenges in implementing devolved social services. This study examined the implementation and governance strategies associated with Executive Order 138 in  Abra, Philippines. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, involving 35 municipal employees for the quantitative phase and 10 key implementers for interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis and integrated through joint display analysis. Findings revealed that respondents were aware of Executive Order 138. LGUs experienced challenges related to funding limitations, administrative responsibilities, and public expectations for services. In response, LGUs adopted governance strategies, including intensified revenue generation and service prioritization. The study contributes to decentralization and public administration by demonstrating how institutional governance capacity and adaptive local strategies influence the effectiveness of service delivery in resource-constrained local governments.