Sequential Explanatory Analysis of Stakeholders’ Opinion on Public Consultation

Abstract

The study determined the opinions of various stakeholders regarding public consultation in terms of opportunity to engage, value of consultation, and stakeholder’s willingness. This study also analyzed the significant differences on the stakeholders’ opinions along with their demographic profile. Qualitatively, the participants’ problems, observations, and issues encountered during public consultations were also explored. A mixed-method sequential explanatory approach that includes the combination of both quantitative and qualitative methods of research was undertaken. It utilized a self-made questionnaire formatted in a 4-point Likert scale and guide questions for focus group discussions (FGDs). A total of 398 respondents who were selected using multi-stage sampling procedure composed of 11 city council members, 57 Sangguniang barangay members, 55 from youth sectors, 55 senior citizens, 55 from households, 55 business owners, 55 farmers, and 55 professionals took part of the quantitative study while 5 representatives of each sector comprised the FGD. The gathered data was statistically analysed using fmean (M) and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Meanwhile, the FGD transcriptions were thematically analysed. Results revealed that participants have positive reactions regarding their opportunity to engage (M=3.25), value of consultation (M=3.26), and willingness (M=3.19). Through ANOVA, differences in the responses were revealed across different groups of stakeholders. Moreover, qualitative data from the FGD indicated problems in the conduct of public consultation that circle around the (1) attitude of the participants (i.e., passive participation, unequal and selective attention, lack of interest and non-cooperation of some stakeholders), and (2) procedures in the conduct of public consultation (i.e., not all stakeholders were represented and invited, limited and confusing explanations, disorganized and unstructured, lengthy discussions, and late to start). Given this, it is recommended to develop a more proactive mechanism in actively involving the various sectors of stakeholders in the conduct of public consultations.