Administrative Capability and Commitment as Pathways to SDGs Localization in a Heritage City

Abstract

Recognizing the role of local governments in translating sustainable development goals into concrete local actions, this study examined how Vigan City has operationalized the UN SDGs within its local governance framework, leveraging the avenue afforded to local governments to translate global development goals into actionable local imperatives. The study determined the administrative capability and commitment of Vigan City in the localization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also addressed the city’s administrative capacity, commitment, and practices for coping with global sustainability frameworks and for localizing governance actions. The work was specifically focused on the city’s performance with respect to four selected goals: SDG #3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG #4 (Quality Education), SDG #11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG #16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). In addition, the best practices of the City of Vigan in localizing the Sustainable Development Goals as a model of effective and sustainable local governance were also considered. This study utilized the quantitative descriptive-correlational research design, adopting the survey questionnaire of Anicas (2020), and involved two groups of respondents: 384 residents of Barangays 1-9 and Tamag, and six key informants. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis, including mean and bivariate correlation, as well as a thematic analysis. Results showed that Vigan City has a high level of administrative capability and a high commitment to the localization of Sustainable Development Goals. Its best practices are Leadership and Governance, Inclusion and Capacity Development, Financial Management and Resource Mobilization, and Empowering Community and Well-being. These areas point out the city's commitment to participatory governance, openness, and, along with that, inclusive local development. Administrative capability significantly influences Vigan City's commitment to the localization of the SDGs. This study recommends that city officials maintain exemplary leadership toward sustainable development. The LGU may integrate SDGs into local policies to further enhance the city’s commitment. Moreover, achieving the SDG agenda requires LGU capacity and collaboration with other sectors. Future research may also explore additional variables and mechanisms to improve SDG evaluation strategies. This study provides empirical, city-level evidence on how administrative capacity and governance commitment interact to localize the SDGs in the context of a heritage city.