Evaluating the Efficacy of e-Government Initiatives in Addressing Local Governance Challenges in the City of Zamboanga, Philippines

This study evaluates the efficacy of e-Government initiatives in addressing local governance challenges in Zamboanga City, Philippines. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research examines how digital tools have improved administrative processes and service delivery, identifies key barriers and facilitators to the adoption of e-Government systems, and assesses stakeholder perceptions of these initiatives. Findings indicate that e-Government initiatives, including the e-Services Portal and Open Data Portal, have significantly enhanced administrative efficiency, reduced processing times, and improved transparency. However, barriers such as the digital divide, resistance to change, and security concerns have impacted the effectiveness of these tools. Facilitators like strong leadership, external partnerships, and targeted training have been critical in overcoming these challenges. Stakeholder perceptions reveal a generally positive view of the initiatives, although concerns about digital inclusion and data security remain. The study contributes to the understanding of e-Government implementation by validating existing theories, highlighting practical challenges and solutions, and offering insights for future research. The findings suggest the need for ongoing improvements and targeted strategies to maximize the benefits of e-Government in addressing local governance issues.