Authors
Mae Ann A. Balbino*
Capiz State University, Roxas City, Capiz, Philippines
Pet Roana B. Batacandolo
Capiz State University, Roxas City, Capiz, Philippines
Abstract
Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) play a vital role in strengthening primary healthcare systems, particularly in rural and underserved communities in the Philippines. However, they often operate under constrained conditions, including meager financial allowances and limited formal training in health-related fields. Existing studies have largely emphasized technical competencies and programmatic interventions, with insufficient attention to the motivational and attitudinal factors that sustain performance under such constraints. Moreover, attitudes and competencies are frequently examined as separate constructs, resulting in fragmented evidence on workforce effectiveness. In the context of the Philippines’ decentralized health system and the implementation of Universal Health Care, a critical gap remains in understanding how public service attitudes may compensate for structural limitations and influence competency among frontline health workers. This study examined the relationship between attitudes toward public service delivery and the competency of BHWs in the First District of Capiz, Philippines. Using a descriptive–correlational design, data were collected from 1,102 randomly selected BHWs across five municipalities. Standardized instruments measured attitudes and competencies across key domains, including organizing and interpersonal skills, primary healthcare services, maternal health, and child health. Results showed very satisfactory levels of public service attitude (M = 3.68) and high competency (M = 3.62). Significant differences in both attitudes and competency were observed when grouped according to age, educational attainment, employment status, length of service, BHW category, and municipality, while no differences were found in terms of sex and civil status. A strong positive and statistically significant relationship was identified between attitudes and competency (r = 0.758, p < .01), indicating that more positive service-oriented attitudes are associated with higher levels of competency. The findings underscore the role of intrinsic motivation in sustaining performance despite resource constraints, highlighting the need for policies that integrate capacity-building with recognition and support systems.
Keywords: Barangay health workers, competency assessment, attitudes toward public service, capacity-building, primary health care delivery.
*Corresponding author/ Email: maabalbino@capsu.edu.ph
DOI: http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0502927
Recommended citation:
Balbino, M. A. A., & Batacandolo, P. R. B. (2026). Attitude toward public service delivery and competency of barangay health workers in the First District of Capiz, Philippines. Pantao (The International Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences) 5 (2), 578-588. http://doi.org/10.69651/PIJHSS0502927
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