National and local agency roles in integrated coastal management in the Philippines

Coastal management in the Philippines has evolved over the last 30 years with a progression towards more integrated forms of management and decentralization of authority to local governments. A framework for assessing key components of decentralization is outlined and applied to Philippine coastal management. Local management is assessed in terms of legal authority to engage in effective management, capacity to manage effectively and the availability of resources for management. The political commitment of local officials, the availability and use of inter-governmental coordination mechanisms and means for assuring accountability are also examined. The assessment indicates that much has been accomplished in building a framework for effective local coastal management, but much remains to be done.