Assessing Sustainable Development Practices in Basilan: Opportunities and Challenges for Local Governance

This study examines the implementation of sustainable development practices among selected Local Government Units (LGUs) in Basilan, Philippines, focusing on economic, environmental, social, and governance dimensions. Utilizing a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design, the research combines quantitative assessments from 100 respondents with qualitative insights from 10 key informants, including local officials and community leaders. The findings reveal varying levels of implementation across economic development initiatives, environmental conservation programs, social development projects, and institutional governance mechanisms. While infrastructure development and community engagement show moderate success, significant gaps persist in areas such as revenue generation, forest protection, and transparency in governance. The study highlights the critical role of collaborative governance, community involvement, and educational initiatives in advancing sustainable development. It underscores the necessity for LGUs in Basilan to address identified challenges and leverage local resources to foster a more sustainable and equitable future. The insights contribute to the understanding of local governance in conflict-affected areas and provide a framework for enhancing sustainable development practices in similar contexts.