FINAL EXAMINATION

ON

INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND GOVERNANCE

SUBMITTED BY:

CHRIS LLOYD C. SERON

MPAG STUDENT

SUBMITTED TO:

DR. FRANCISCO JUBELAG JR. VIII

PROFESSOR
1. Can public administration exist without governance? Can good governance exist
without politics? Can public administration exist without politics? What is the role
of politicians in public administration?

Public administration and governance are intricately linked, and it is challenging to

envision public administration existing without governance. Governance provides the
framework within which public administration operates, offering direction, accountability,
and legitimacy to its actions. Dwight Waldo, a renowned scholar in public administration,
emphasized the central role of governance in this context, underscoring that public
administration is essentially a subset of governance (Waldo, 2018). Without governance,
public administration would lack the essential guidance and rules necessary to function
effectively.

Good governance, on the other hand, can exist independently of partisan politics.
While politics often plays a role in governance, especially in democratic systems, the
principles of good governance, such as transparency, accountability, and the rule of law,
can be applied in a non-partisan manner to ensure effective administration (UNESCAP,
2009).

Public administration and politics are also closely interconnected, as politicians

play a vital role in shaping public administration. Politicians, whether elected or appointed,
are responsible for setting policies and goals for government agencies, making legislative
decisions, and allocating resources. Their role is to represent the interests and values of the
public, ensuring that public administration aligns with the political agenda (Stillman,
2010). Thus, public administration cannot exist without politics, as the decisions made by
politicians directly influence the functioning and direction of government agencies.

In conclusion, public administration relies on governance for its structure and

direction, while politicians play a pivotal role in shaping public administration. Good
governance, although influenced by politics, can exist independently of partisan
considerations when applied with a commitment to principles of transparency and
accountability.
2. Reflecting on your own definition of public administration, discuss how you see public
administration under the leadership of PBBM. You may use the facts mentioned in
the latest SONA and Philippine Development Plan.

Public administration, whether led by PBBM or any other leader, adheres to the
core principles of good governance, which encompass transparency, accountability,
efficiency, and a commitment to meeting the public's needs. Several principles serve to
ensure that government actions align with the best interests of the citizens and that public
resources are utilized effectively to attain the nation's development objectives.

The State of the Nation Address (SONA) and the Philippine Development Plan
serve as crucial sources of information regarding government policies, initiatives, and
accomplishments. The main purpose of these documents is to offer insights into the
functioning of public administration in the country, typically delineating the government's
focal points, strategies, and advancements across various sectors such as the economy,
healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.

President Bongbong Marcos's 10-point agenda underscores the convergence of

public administration and good governance within the Philippine context (Republic of the
Philippines: President, 2023). Under his administration, he emphasizes the pivotal role of
public administration in the implementation of policies and programs aimed at revitalizing
the economy and fostering long-term growth. Notably, it places a strong emphasis on the
principles of good governance, particularly transparency and efficiency. The commitment
to establish efficient government processes, including mandatory online services, aligns
with the core tenets of good governance, aimed at enhancing transparency and minimizing
corruption opportunities (Mondoñedo-Ynot, 2023).

Furthermore, the agenda prioritizes public-private partnerships as a means of

promoting good governance. By encouraging private sector engagement and investment
for the benefit of the public, it exemplifies the collaborative approach to governance that
can enhance efficiency and public service delivery. Additionally, the agenda underscores
the importance of fiscal discipline whereas it focuses on efficient tax collection and
targeted spending to ensure responsible financial management.
 In the realm of good governance, the agenda highlights improvements in healthcare
and education. These aspects exemplify the government's responsibility to safeguard the
welfare of its citizens and create a skilled and employable workforce as well as the
emphasis on food security and agricultural productivity meeting the basic needs of the
population.

In conclusion, President Bongbong Marcos's 10-point agenda epitomizes the

principles of public administration and good governance, providing a comprehensive plan
for economic recovery, education, healthcare, and food security. The agenda's unwavering
commitment to transparency, efficiency, accountability, and public-private collaboration
underscores the significance of effective governance in achieving sustainable growth and
prosperity for all Filipinos.

3. Discuss the concept of bureaucracy and its characteristics as applied in your

respective offices. What are the challenges you encountered in your office relative to
bureaucracy. How will you mitigate the negative connotation of bureaucracy?

Bureaucracy represents a system of governance or management where decisions

and policies are formulated by a hierarchy of officials and administrators rather than elected
representatives. It is characterized by a structured and formalized framework with
established rules and procedures, commonly found in government, large organizations, and
institutions, aiming to ensure efficiency and consistency in decision-making and
administration. This concept was notably analyzed and described by the German
sociologist Max Weber in the early 20th century. Bureaucracy encompasses a structured
management system characterized by hierarchy, specialization, rules and regulations,
impersonality, meritocracy, and a focus on efficiency. While it offers advantages in terms
of organization and efficiency, it also faces challenges and criticisms. The principles of
bureaucracy, as outlined by Max Weber, have had a significant impact on shaping the
organization of governments and institutions, influencing both the advantages and
drawbacks of this approach. Managing bureaucracy effectively involves maintaining a
balance between its benefits and the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world,
which is a crucial task for modern organizations and governments.

The concept of bureaucracy, with its fundamental characteristics, plays a vital role
in many offices, including my virtual one. Hierarchy, specialization, rules and regulations,
impersonality, meritocracy, and efficiency provide a structured framework for decision-
making and administration. In our virtual setting, hierarchy is evident through our clear
communication channels, roles, and lines of authority. Specialization is encouraged as each
team member handles tasks based on their expertise, ensuring efficiency. Rules and
regulations maintain consistency and order, particularly regarding data security and
privacy. Impersonality ensures fairness and impartiality in interactions. Meritocracy is
central to our team's culture, recognizing talent and performance. Efficiency is a priority,
facilitated by streamlined processes and automation. Applying these bureaucratic
principles in our virtual office maintains a balance between structure and adaptability,
ultimately serving our users effectively and efficiently.

In many office settings, bureaucracy, intended to provide structure and efficiency,

presents several significant challenges. Excessive red tape, characterized by complex and
time-consuming processes, is a prominent issue. Bureaucratic systems accumulate
numerous rules and regulations, leading to overcomplicated procedures, impeding
productivity, stifling creativity, and causing frustration among employees. Slow decision-
making is another challenge, with multiple layers of approval leading to extended response
times, a hindrance in dynamic business environments. Bureaucracy's lack of flexibility
makes it resistant to change and adaptability, potentially hampering organizations in
responding to market demands, technologies, or shifting circumstances. Additionally,
bureaucracy's emphasis on impersonal interactions may lead to less personalized
communication, potentially resulting in a perception of indifference and reduced
satisfaction. To mitigate these challenges, organizations must carefully manage
bureaucracy to ensure that its advantages outweigh its drawbacks.

Mitigating the negative connotations of bureaucracy necessitates a concerted effort

by organizations to balance its inherent benefits and challenges. This involves streamlining
 bureaucratic processes by simplifying and eliminating unnecessary rules and steps.
Fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability is crucial to prevent rigidity. Promoting
transparency allows for more open decision-making and dispels the perception of secrecy.
Empowering employees by granting autonomy and ownership over their work can enhance
motivation and efficiency. Addressing concerns about accountability requires establishing
clear responsibility for outcomes. Prioritizing customer-centricity is essential, focusing on
delivering excellent service and personalized interactions. Regular reviews and
assessments of bureaucratic practices are needed to identify areas for improvement and
ensure compliance with standards.

4. If you happen to be the Mayor of your LGU, how would you handle the Pandemic
Situation by applying the following theories of organization:
A. Structural Function Theory

Handling the pandemic situation by applying the structural-function theory

would involve a systematic and organized approach to ensure the well-being of the
community. The structural-function theory emphasizes that societies and
organizations are held together by the interrelated parts that function to maintain
stability and equilibrium (Parsons, 2011).

In the context of a pandemic, this theory would guide decision-making in

the following ways:

a. Clear Organizational Structure: Establishing a clear organizational

structure within the city administration to coordinate the pandemic response
efforts is essential for the development of one’s city. With this structure, it
would include health departments, emergency management agencies, and
communication channels that function together to provide a coordinated
response.
b. Role Clarification: Each department and agency would have well-defined
roles and responsibilities. The health department would focus on healthcare
 delivery and contact tracing, while emergency management would handle
resource allocation and disaster response.
c. Facilitating Information Exchange: Effective communication channels
would ensure that information flows smoothly within the organization and
to the public. Timely updates, guidelines, and transparent information
sharing would be key to maintaining trust and stability.
d. Optimizing Resource Allocation: The theory would guide resource
allocation, ensuring that the city's resources are distributed efficiently to
meet the essential needs of the community. This includes healthcare
facilities, protective equipment, and economic support for affected
individuals and businesses.
e. Strengthening Social Support Networks: The structural-function theory
recognizes the importance of social support networks. The city
administration would work to create and strengthen community support
systems to help vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with
health disparities.
f. Prioritizing Adaptation: The theory emphasizes the need for organizations
and societies to adapt to changing circumstances. I would prioritize
flexibility and adaptability in response strategies, allowing for adjustments
based on the evolving nature of the pandemic.

By applying the structural-function theory, the city's response to the

pandemic would be characterized by a well-organized, interdependent, and stable
system that prioritizes the health and well-being of the community.

B. Human Relation Theory

Applying the human relations theory as a mayor during a pandemic would

revolve around recognizing the importance of human interactions and relationships
during times of crisis. Rooted in the work of Elton Mayo, the human relations
theory underscores the social aspects of organizations and how they impact
 employee motivation and productivity (Mayo, 2020). In my pandemic management
strategy, several fundamental principles would take precedence.

Foremost, the well-being of both city employees and community members

would be of utmost concern. Acknowledging the stress and uncertainty
accompanying a pandemic, It would be better to concentrate on delivering mental
health support, flexible work arrangements, and access to resources to help
individuals navigate the challenges. Effective communication and empathy would
be central pillars of this approach. Employing transparent and compassionate
communication with city employees and the public would encompass addressing
concerns, acknowledging the difficulties individuals are facing, and offering clear
guidance on safety measures. Such communication fosters trust and ensures that
everyone is well-informed and supported. Community engagement in the decision-
making process would be essential. Seeking input from residents and businesses
would facilitate a deeper understanding of their needs and concerns, fostering a
sense of belonging and cooperation. Additionally, the human relations theory
promotes teamwork and collaboration. It also encourage city departments to work
closely together, breaking down barriers, and sharing resources and information to
provide a unified response to the pandemic. Morever, acknowledging and
celebrating the contributions of city employees and community members would be
a key element. Such recognition uplifts morale and motivation, strengthening the
sense of community and shared purpose.

By applying the human relations theory, the pandemic response would

prioritize individuals and relationships, emphasizing well-being, open
communication, community participation, teamwork, and recognition. These
principles would contribute to a sense of unity and resilience as the community
confronts the challenges posed by the pandemic.

C. The Scalar Principle Line and Staff Organizations

In managing a pandemic situation as a mayor, utilizing the scalar principle

and concepts derived from line and staff organizations is salient in ensuring an
 efficient response. The scalar principle, a key element of management, underscores
the importance of a clear chain of command and well-defined levels of authority
within an organization (Dyck, 2017). I would establish a structured hierarchical
framework within the city administration, delineating the roles and responsibilities
of various departments. This structured approach would facilitate an organized
response to the pandemic.

Incorporating principles from line and staff organizations, I would make a

clear distinction between line functions, which directly participate in pandemic
response, and staff functions, which provide specialized expertise and support. For
instance, the health department and emergency management agencies would
constitute the line functions, bearing the responsibility for healthcare delivery and
disaster response. Staff functions, in contrast, would encompass professionals with
expertise in areas such as data analysis, communications, and logistics, offering
specialized support to the line functions.

In summary, by applying the scalar principle and principles from line and
staff organizations, the pandemic response would be well-structured, featuring a
defined chain of command and a clear separation of roles between those directly
involved in the response and those providing specialized support. This approach
ensures an organized and effective response to the pandemic.

5. If you happen to be the President of the Republic of the Philippines, how would apply
the following principles:

If I were the President of the Republic of the Philippines, I would implement the
following management principles to ensure effective governance:
A. Hierarchy - The principle of hierarchy would play a pivotal role in shaping a well-
defined organizational structure within the government. Having a well-structured
hierarchy would create a clear chain of command, leading to more streamlined
decision-making processes and heightened accountability.
B. Unity of Command - I would firmly adhere to the principle of unity of command,
making certain that each government agency or department possesses a single point
 of accountability. Thus, this approach would eliminate confusion, leaving no
ambiguity about who is responsible for specific actions and decisions.
C. Span of Control - In order to maintain an effective span of control, I would strike
a careful balance between centralization and decentralization. Since, it would
prevent the overloading of government officials and agencies with excessive direct
reports, ultimately resulting in more efficient supervision and management.
D. Delegation - Delegation would be a pivotal strategy to empower capable
individuals within the government. The act of delegating authority and
responsibility to competent officials would empower them to make decisions within
their areas of expertise. The establishment of explicit guidelines and expectations
for accountability in the delegation process would be of paramount importance.
E. Coordination - Facilitating effective coordination among government agencies
would be crucial in order to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure the efficient
utilization of resources. I would put in place mechanisms to promote inter-agency
cooperation and communication, particularly in areas necessitating a multi-sectoral
approach.
F. Communication - Prioritizing transparent and open communication would be
imperative. I would ensure that information flows freely among government
agencies and to the public. Regular updates, briefings, and active engagement with
the media and citizens would be indispensable in maintaining trust and
accountability.

In conclusion, the implementation of these management principles in the

governance of the Philippines would aim to cultivate a culture of efficiency, transparency,
and collaboration. These principles, deeply rooted in the realm of public administration,
are foundational for good governance. As such application would be instrumental in
ensuring that government actions consistently align with the best interests of the Filipino
people, ultimately contributing to the advancement and well-being of the nation. The
principles of hierarchy, unity of command, span of control, delegation, coordination, and
communication collectively form the guiding framework for effective public
administration and governance in the Philippines.
6. If you happen to be a lawmaker, what law will you sponsor to enhance the
implementation of Public Administration applying the concepts and theories you
learned in our class?

If I were to be a lawmaker, I would introduce a law aimed at improving the

implementation of Public Administration, with a particular emphasis on transparency,
accountability, and ethical conduct. This proposed law would draw from the concepts and
theories we've studied in our class, with a specific focus on Republic Act No. 6713 also
known as act establishing, “A Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials
and Employees.”
The primary objective of this proposed law would be to underscore the significance
of ethical behavior, effective management of conflicts of interest, and the cultivation of
public trust in government procedures. To achieve this, the law would build upon the
foundations set by Republic Act No. 6713, also recognized as the "Code of Conduct and
Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees." It would introduce more stringent
mechanisms for the declaration of assets and liabilities, establish stricter guidelines for
avoiding conflicts of interest, and introduce comprehensive ethics training programs for
public officials and employees.
In essence, this legislation aims to nurture a culture of transparency and
accountability within the realm of Public Administration. It would do so by imposing
penalties for any violations and implementing a more robust system for enforcement.
Therefore, this proposed law aligns seamlessly with the principles of good
governance, ethics, and accountability that we have learned in our class. Its ultimate goal
is to enhance the practice of Public Administration, ultimately fostering greater public trust
in government institutions and the individuals who serve within them.
References:
Dyck, B. (2017). Management: Current Practices and New Directions. Cengage Learning.
Mayo, E. (2020). The human problems of an industrial civilization. Macmillan.
Parsons, T. (2011). Theories of society: Foundations of modern sociological theory. Free Press.
Ferlie, E., Lynn Jr, L. E., & Pollitt, C. (2017). The Oxford Handbook of Public Management.
Oxford University Press.
Republic Act No. 6713 (1989). An Act Establishing a Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for
Public Officials and Employees. Retrieved from
https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra1989/ra_6713_1989.html
Waldo, D. (2018). The Enterprise of Public Administration: A Summary View. Public
Administration Review, 44(2), pp. 114-120.
UNESCAP. (2009). What is Good Governance? United Nations Economic and Social
Commission for Asia and the Pacific. Retrieved from
https://www.unescap.org/resources/what-good-governance
Stillman, R. J. (2010). Public Administration: Concepts and Cases. Cengage Learning.
Republic of the Philippines: President. (July 24, 2023). State of the Nation Address of His
Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. President of the Philippines to the Congress of the
Philippines. Retrieved from https://pbbm.com.ph/2023-state-of-the-nation-address/
Mondoñedo-Ynot, Laureen. (July 24, 2023). Summary of President Bongbong Marcos'
#Sona2023. Retrieved from https://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/summary-of-
president-bongbong-marcos-sona2023