Compliance to Public Bonding Law of Sangguniang Barangay Officials In One Philippine Province

This study examines the compliance of Sangguniang Barangay officials in Batangas Province with the Public Bonding Law, a legal measure ensuring accountability and financial protection through fidelity bonds. Fidelity bonding is essential in safeguarding public resources and maintaining transparency in local governance. Using a quantitative descriptive research method, the study assessed compliance levels, identified challenges, and analyzed the impact of compliance on governance outcomes. A survey was conducted among 400 barangay officials, including Punong Barangays and Treasurers, to evaluate their adherence to bonding requirements such as application, renewal, and accountability adjustments. Findings indicate that while compliance is generally observed, significant challenges persist, particularly in bond cancellations due to administrative inefficiencies, resource constraints, and lack of awareness. Statistical analyses revealed a strong positive correlation between compliance and improvements in governance transparency, accountability, and ethical standards. However, disparities in compliance rates highlight the need for enhanced training, streamlined administrative processes, and policy refinements. The study underscores the importance of fidelity bonding in reinforcing public trust and financial security within decentralized governance structures. It recommends stronger inter-agency coordination, simplified procedural guidelines, and capacity-building initiatives to improve compliance. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, local government units, and oversight agencies in strengthening public accountability mechanisms. By addressing the barriers to compliance, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on good governance, ethical leadership, and financial integrity in the local government system of the Philippines.