The Quality of Community Support Programs of the Philippine Army 203Rd Infantry Brigade in the 2nd District Of Oriental Mindoro: A Basis for Program Enhancement

Abstract

The study assessed the quality of Community Support Program (CSP) of the Philippine Army 203rd Infantry Brigade in the Second District of Oriental Mindoro. The tribes of Alangan, Tau-Buhid, Bangon, Buhid, Tadyawan, and Hanunuo, were involved in the study. Both quantitative and qualitative methods of research using a researcher-made questionnaire, document analysis, and interview were employed. Majority of the respondents were still young; males and married. Hanunuo Tribe has the highest number of respondents; who earn 3,000-5,000 pesos mostly derived from farming and agriculture, and monthly expenses range from 3,000 –5,000 pesos. The Community Support Program (CSP) was of high quality in Strengthening Integrated Territorial Defense System (ITDS); Socio-economic Reforms; Command and Control; Logistics; and Productivity; and with high impact to Indigenous People (IP) in valuing education; improving the quality of life; appreciating one’s aptitude, community involvement; and promoting their rights. Cultural Tradition, Inferiority Complex; Disinterest on the Community Support Program (CSP) itself; Inadequate Fund for Logistics; and Shortage of Personnel to manage the Community Support Program (CSP) were the constraints during the implementation of the program. Some indicators such as educational qualification, attitudes, and level of satisfaction towards the services of the Community Support Program (CSP) should be enhanced and sustained its effectiveness and productivity through livelihood and heightened satisfaction of the respondents. Enhancement Plan was designed along Socio-Economic Reform, Logistics, and productivity to address poverty issues, strengthen mobilization and disposition of Brigade’s MOOE, and ensured indigenous economic system. Proper coordination with other agencies can help resolve the problems and succeed with its endeavor. Further research on cultural practices and satisfaction of the program beneficiaries were recommended.