Situational Analysis of Selected S&T-Based Social Enterprises in Batangas Province, Philippines toward a Policy Framework

Abstract

Social Enterprises (SEs) can potentially facilitate social innovation. This study was designed to understand the situation of selected SEs in Batangas province run by Community-based Associations with DOST Grants-In-Aid Projects. The study described each SE, determined their problem situations, and analyzed surrounding institutional arrangements among them to formulate a policy framework. Data were gathered through FGDs and KIIs among SEs and their assisting institutions. The data went through two-level coding and were further analyzed using CIPP Evaluation Model and EPISTLE Analysis Tool. Social Enterprises Quality Indicators by PhilSEN were used to evaluate the SE’s business management performance, social responsibility and performance, and environment and cultural practices. Results showed that the seven selected SEs are legally registered with existence ranging from 0-20 years. Most of them belong in the food processing sector. Majority met the standards for Business and Management Performance, Social Responsibility and Performance, and Environment and Cultural Practice. Problem situation of SEs identified were related to association, production, market, and financial. The association problems were mainly caused by members; production problems were interrelated and influenced by lack of funds; market problems included customer complaints; and financial problems were associated with low income. Most problem situations influence SEs’ overall operations. Meanwhile, majority of the selected SEs did not consider any direct influence from legal and environmental factors, but admitted to be influenced by political and economic environment, and socio-cultural factors. All the selected SEs consider institutions as support mechanisms for growth and source of improvement for their product, process, and promotion. However, only informal institutional arrangements were in place. A policy framework was formulated at the end of the study. It embeds analysis approaches to better understand the background and broader problem situations, influences, and institutional interventions to determine possible policy actions. The framework highlights a five-level process needed to set up guidelines for S&T-Based SEs.