Developmental Machinery in the Third District of Pangasinan and in Naga, Camarines Sur: An Exploratory Comparison

Abstract

This article investigates how political machineries and direct delivery of developmental goods and services to crucial constituencies were being linked and used in two locales in the Philippines: Third Congressional District of Pangasinan and the City of Naga. In the context of the “developmental machinery,” differences in the two areas’ respective contexts create distinct yet similar machinery and outcomes in terms of both political and socioeconomic development. Utilizing archival research and comparative analysis, this article aims to compare the two experiences in running political machines that are based more on direct people’s participation and direct delivery of goods and services. Preliminary evidence shows that the two are most likely unique political structures that were similarly founded on the principles of broad public participation and credible service delivery. More research is needed to flesh out the comparison, as well as the “model” of developmental machinery.