Leadership dynamics, administrative efficiency, leadership abilities & approaches among department heads in Ifugao Province, Philippines: Implications for effective governance

Fernando G. Hernando, Client William M. Malinao — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The efficacy of government is mainly dependent on public service leaders, who are top civil officials who oversee and enhance key government operations. They convert political direction into programs and policies that maintain citizens’ economic productivity, safety, and well-being. As such, this study determines the administrative capabilities, the level of program implementation, leadership qualities, and the styles of the department heads in the 11 municipalities in Ifugao Province. Using a descriptive-comparative research design, data were gathered from the 106 department heads and validated by the 92 elected officials and 449 employees. Using descriptive statistics and an F-test, findings revealed that the department heads are perceived to be capable of performing core management functions. Regarding program implementation, respondents concurred on moderately effective program execution. All groups agreed that the office heads possess the qualities of a leader who envisions the future and inspires members. On the leadership styles, the participative style of leadership, which ushered in the inclusion of employees in decision-making, was agreed upon by all respondents. The perceptions of the three groups were not significantly different regarding management functions, leadership qualities, and leadership styles of the department heads. Results map the strengths and gaps in the department heads’ leadership styles and administrative capability, outlining helpful information for policy formulation and capacity-building initiatives.

“Is there peace?”: Discrimination and the refugee experience in Malaysia

Atika Shafinaz Nazri, Zarina Othman, Kart Aboo Talib@Khalid, Emyzai Zainuddin — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Many factors, such as societal neglect, issues related to UNHCR, non-traditional legal frameworks, and international laws, contribute to the difficulties refugees face in Malaysia. However, in Malaysia, identify government discrimination as the primary factor contributing to the imbalance in refugees’ lives. Based on the experiences of refugees living in Malaysia, this research explores rights often denied by the government, regardless of their age, community background, or duration of stay. The study continues to delve into refugee challenges as long as they hold UNHCR cards. The method used in this study utilizes a qualitative approach. As a result of these challenges, this study presents the lived experiences of refugees as types of government discrimination based on their refugee status. This aspect has not been extensively explored in previous research. In conclusion, the study argues that those not involved in refugee management may perceive Malaysia as a country that practices democracy and upholds humanitarian values due to hosting nearly 180,000 refugees. However, the reality reveals existing shortcomings, including unrecognized UNHCR cards, fragility and susceptibility to detention, deprivation of the right to work, exposure to persecution, legal aid barriers, lack of access to healthcare treatment, and restricted access to formal education.

Masyarakat, Kebudayaan dan Politik

Leadership dynamics, administrative efficiency, leadership abilities & approaches among department heads in Ifugao Province, Philippines: Implications for effective governance

“Is there peace?”: Discrimination and the refugee experience in Malaysia