Achurra, Beatrice A.

April 16, 2021

PM 151 - 1 BSM - 3

Assignment # 2: Learning Log

1. Make a mind map/conceptual map linking the different historical events in the evolution
of Philippine local governance up to the time of President Corazon Aquino. Briefly describe
the types of decentralization that were initiated/implemented and identify the highs and
lows per era. What are the key implications of these events in the current administrative
and political climate of the country? You may look into the article of Brillantes for reference.

During the Pre-Spanish era, Filipinos were independent of each other and minded
their respective businesses. But as the Spanish era came, they integrated a highly
centralized government. Additionally, the lack of unity among warring barangays made
conquest easier for the Spaniards. The Spanish rule emanated from Manila through
decrees and instructions from Spain. As for the terms of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo and
Apolinario Mabini, they recognized the importance of local government stated in the
Malolos Constitution. This paved the way for decentralization and administrative autonomy
to be practiced.

This did not last long, however, as the Americans came and colonized the country.
They operated closely similar to the Spaniards, but only minimally to the strong centralism
left by the Spaniards. As the Commonwealth Period came, the forms and patterns of local
government were similar to that during the Commonwealth period.
Achurra, Beatrice A. April 16, 2021
PM 151 - 1 BSM - 3
Come the presidency of Marcos, the government remained highly centralized and
only minimal substantive powers were devolved to local units. Finally, during the term of
Corazon Aquino, the Philippines decentralized under a secure and well-institutionalized
regime. The progressive leader Corazon Aquino, and was also able disregard concerns
over ethnic stability in favor of a more moderate and judiciously implemented program of
decentralization.

The experiences of the Philippines and its people shaped it to become the nation
that it is today. The current administrative and political climate of today are connected to
how the Spaniards and Americans shaped the institutions that would come to characterize
Philippine democracy. Linkages were also established, whether it be geographically,
economically, religiously, or a combination of these three.

2. What steps or solutions can you suggest given the need to increase the administrative
capability of local governments? You may suggest separate solutions to enhance each
dimension of administrative capability discussed in the study guide.

The dimensions of administrative capability is divided into four criterias. By

leadership, structure, resources, and personnel. As for the leadership dimension, it will be
best that we appoint the right leaders into position. This way, we can have local officials
that are highly capable of providing leadership in the delivery of crucial services. On the
other hand, we can do better in the structure of our government by setting clear how
processes within the local government go. This way, we can make sure that administration
and delivery of services is not hampered by changes of leadership.

In terms of resources, I believe that the power given to local government units
remains insufficient. To increase the capability of these local units, it will be ideal that we
allocate appropriate devolution of power so these LGUs become more capable in raising
revenues for their projects. Finally, we must vote for the right people, those that have the
skills to deliver the services needed by the citizens. This goes from the government
officials, to the nurses, doctors, lawyers, and many others who provide service to the
Filipino people.

3. What are the possible roles of schools/educational institutions in enhancing the

administrative capability of local governments?

Schools and educational institutions shape the future leaders of the country. They
play a significant role in enhancing the administrative capability of local governments by
Achurra, Beatrice A. April 16, 2021
PM 151 - 1 BSM - 3
educating the youth with enough knowledge to help them build the people that they are yet
to become. If educational institutions succeed in molding the youth of today, we can expect
to see a better and more capable local government in the future.