A MODEL OF PARTICIPATION IN A WATER REHABILITATION PROJECT OF A LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT IN THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

To eradicate water pollution, a local government in the Philippines has implemented a water
rehabilitation project called ―Adopt-A-River Project. The project mobilized the local communities to preserve and
maintain a clean and safe environment. Promoted through the use of communication media, Adopt-A-River
Project has been implemented along the three main tributaries of the area. This study was designed to propose a
model of participation considering the level of awareness and perception on the project and the level of
participation of the 327 residents. Data were gathered using a validated researcher-made questionnaire with
reliability index of 0.970 on perception items and 0.897 on level of participation. Data revealed that local group
discussion (52%) is the most commonly used medium of communication in increasing awareness of the project.
This is in addition to radio, television, newspaper and the internet. The use of different media resulted in the
respondents being informed of the project which led to their involvement in decision-making and consultative role.
The information about the project was disseminated using words that are simple and easy to understand. The
project was accepted by the residents and participation was heightened. The perception level has an effect on the
information level by 0.737. Path analysis using 14 variables showed a good fit with Chi-square = 0000 and GFI,
NFI and CFI having values of 0.99 and RMSEA of 0.026. Significant predictors of participation are perception
(p=.000) and awareness (p=.000).