Abstract
This study explored the extent of community engagement in enhancing public service delivery within a second-class municipality, focusing on how citizen participation—through forums, surveys, and collaborative initiatives—affects service quality and satisfaction. Data for this research was collected from sampled respondents using a self-made data-=gathering instrument validated and submitted for reliability testing. The data collection was likewise governed by ethical considerations of anonymity, risk of harm, and confidentiality. Data collected from local stakeholders in 2024 revealed that most participants were women aged 46 and above, typically with lower education and income levels. Engagement was notably high in education and health sectors, driven by active school involvement and effective health programs like free medicines and check-ups.
In contrast, livelihood services received moderate ratings due to limited information dissemination, particularly in coastal areas. The research identified both best practices and barriers, emphasizing the need for improved communication and broader outreach. It proposed an action plan to enhance collaboration between citizens and local government, recommending monthly outreach programs, stronger partnerships, and more inclusive planning—especially in livelihood support. The study underscores the importance of participatory governance in achieving more efficient and responsive public service. It encourages future research to explore community involvement as a foundation for effective governance strategies.
Keywords: Community engagement, public service, second -class municipality