DEVELOPMENT OF SHARED GOVERNANCE IN THE CONTEXT OF STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATION OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 70

Abstract

This study developed a Shared Governance Model in the context of the strategic implementation of Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70), which institutionalized the Whole-of-Nation Approach to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) in the Philippines. The research examined the current realities and challenges of governance and identified the critical factors that influence effective shared governance among government agencies, local government units, indigenous communities, and other stakeholders. A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. Qualitative data were gathered through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with implementers and subject-matter experts from the development, security, and local governance sectors. Quantitative data were collected from 300 household respondents across the six provinces and cities of the Davao Region. Data analysis utilized thematic analysis, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Findings revealed persistent challenges in communication, coordination, collaboration, political dynamics, sociocultural inclusion, and economic resource allocation. The EFA extracted six governance dimensions, while subsequent CFA and model fit assessments resulted in a refined five-factor Shared Governance Model consisting of Collaborative Government Communication, Interagency Collaboration, Balanced Partnership Advocacy, Inclusive Governance, and Indigenous Vulnerability Dynamics. The model demonstrated satisfactory reliability and validity, indicating that these dimensions significantly contribute to effective governance and sustainable peacebuilding efforts under EO 70. The study concludes that shared governance is a multidimensional construct that strengthens stakeholder participation, institutional coordination, and community engagement. It recommends enhanced interagency mechanisms, inclusive governance practices, strengthened indigenous participation, and transparent resource management to improve the strategic implementation of EO 70 and promote long-term peace, security, and development in conflict-affected communities.