Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.3326/pse.45.1.3

Decentralization and welfare: theory and an empirical analysis using Philippine data

Tristan Canare ; Department of Economics, School of Social Sciences, Ateneo de Manila University, Katipunan Ave., Loyola Heights, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1108

Abstract

This study theoretically and empirically analyzes the relationship between decentralization and welfare. The model identifies conditions in which a decentralized government is utility-maximizing compared to a centralized one. The empirical analysis utilized data from Philippine provinces to study the relationship between several decentralization indicators and welfare, as measured by per capita income, human development index, and poverty. Results suggest that fiscal independence, or the ability of local governments to generate their own revenues to finance their own expenditures rather than relying on central government transfers, is positively associated with per capita income and HDI. Moreover, this relationship is stronger when governance is better and weaker among lower-income provinces. In contrast, a higher number of local government units per population is linked to adverse development outcomes, and this association is stronger among lower-income provinces and weaker among those with good governance.

Keywords

decentralization; welfare; fiscal independence; Philippines

Hrčak ID:

253403

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/253403

Publication date:

9.3.2021.

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