A Model of Participation in a Water Rehabilitation Project of a Local Government Unit in the Philippines

Abstract

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).