POLITICAL LEADERSHIP AND LOCAL DEVELOPMENT: A CASE OF KATIPUNAN, ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE (1946–2006)

Abstract

This study examines the political development of the local government of Katipunan, Zamboanga del Norte from 1946 to 2006, focusing on the leadership roles, achievements, and governance contributions of successive municipal mayors. Employing a historical-descriptive research design, the study utilizes documentary analysis, external and internal criticism, and a personal-intuitive approach to evaluate the administrations of seven mayors. Governance performance was assessed using key indicators, including infrastructure development, municipal income, peace and order, health services, educational provision, and livelihood opportunities.

The findings reveal that the mayoral administrations significantly contributed to the municipality’s socio-economic growth and institutional development. Leadership transitions and governance outcomes observed during the period reflect patterns consistent with Vilfredo Pareto’s theory of elite circulation and Michael Foley’s theory of political leadership. By providing a systematic historical analysis of local leadership and development, this study contributes to the literature on local governance and political leadership in the Philippine municipal context.