Strategic Alignment and Structured Decision-Making in Combating Human Trafficking: A Policy Analysis in Davao del Norte

This study investigates the strategic alignment and decision-making processes in combating human trafficking across the component cities of the Province of Davao del Norte: Panabo City, Tagum City, and the Island Garden City of Samal. Utilizing Bardach and Patashnik’s (2020) Eightfold Path to Policy Analysis and a qualitative approach, the research draws from government reports, academic literature, and international sources. Thematic analysis highlights critical gaps between local and national anti-trafficking policies, revealing fragmented inter-agency coordination and inconsistent implementation across the three cities. Decision-making processes in these localities exhibit varying degrees of strategic alignment, with disparities in resource allocation, enforcement, and political will. Comparative analysis with Davao City, Cebu Province, and Singapore underscores the importance of robust data systems, multi-stakeholder engagement, and strategic governance in combating trafficking. The study concludes that disjointed governance structures and the absence of systematic decision-making frameworks hinder local efforts. It recommends improving inter-agency collaboration, investing in data infrastructure, and strengthening capacity-building to align local policies with national frameworks and enhance anti-trafficking initiatives.