Outcomes and Impacts of Barangay Governance Capacitating Sessions for Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) of Malaybalay City

Abstract

This study explored the outcomes and impacts of barangay governance capacitating sessions provided to the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) in Malaybalay City using narrative inquiry. The narrative method is a qualitative design that involves understanding “narrative” as spoken or written text that provides a detailed account of an event or a sequence of events. The researchers aimed to understand how the training sessions influence the project beneficiaries’ governance roles and community leadership through the collection and analysis of their personal stories and experiences. The narrative approach helped the researchers understand the participants’ perspectives on the impact of the sessions on the IPMRs’ abilities to advocate for Indigenous rights and engage with local government processes of which they are called to serve. The study uncovered the following themes that revealed the impacts of the capacitating sessions on the IPMRs -- knowledge and skill development, empowered Indigenous communities, and enhanced leadership. The findings further revealed that the IPMRs hope for more capacitating sessions of this kind; thus, it is proposed that an extension program that is designed to address continuous training and development and mentorship and support networks may be developed. This research contributes to the ongoing discussion regarding Indigenous governance and the effectiveness of capacitating-building initiatives of SUCs in promoting inclusive and responsive local governance.