Date of Publication

2-27-2025

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master in Political Science

Subject Categories

Political Science

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Political Science

Abstract (English)

This study examines how party-list groups represent their constituencies by analyzing two regional groups from Bicol using key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. It examines their constituent engagement and policymaking strategies in legislative (bill submissions) and non-legislative (constituency services) actions. It presents the implications of their approach toward constituency engagement vis-a-vis the legislative functions of these party lists in terms of their role as representative of their claimed constituencies. This study reveals that party-list groups represent their constituencies through visibility-building strategies, legislation emphasis, and services rendered. It shows that more established groups like the Ako Bicol Party list (AKB) have built strong name recall and program visibility. They primarily engage constituents through direct service provision, reinforcing a transactional rather than participatory model. On the other hand, Ang Probinsyano Party List (APPL) struggles with recognition, weakening their capacity to shape legislative priorities and mobilize constituency support. Based on these findings, this study argues the concept of institutional maturity in the party list system. It highlights how newer groups struggle to establish influence, initially focusing on national policymaking before shifting to localized initiatives. Additionally, it explores the paradox of visibility and engagement, where party-list groups claim to represent certain constituencies but prioritize short-term assistance over grassroots participation in policymaking. Thus, this demonstrates how party-list groups function as de facto service providers rather than genuine representatives, reinforcing patronage politics over participatory governance. This study shifts discourse from assessing party-list groups’ origin and nature, i.e., dominated by traditional political elites and families, to questioning the system’s ability to fulfill its mandate. It underscores the need for institutional reforms that promote bottom-up governance, transparency, and long-term policy-driven representation. Without such reforms, the party-list system will continue prioritizing visibility and short-term aid over substantive legislative advocacy, failing to empower the constituencies through meaningful representation.

Keywords: Constituency representation, party-list system, regional party, Philippine Congress

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Political parties--Philippines; Representative government and representation--Philippines; Ako Bicol; Ang Probinsyano

Upload Full Text

wf_yes

Embargo Period

8-14-2027

Download

Available for download on Saturday, August 14, 2027

Share

COinS