Harnessing Social Capital: Empowering Barangay Health in Health Promotion Governance

Abstract

Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) play a critical role in health promotion governance within local government settings. Using the Institutional Collective Action Framework, Social Capital Theory, and reflexive thematic analysis, this research examined the potential self-organizing systems of BHWs in Malabon LGU through the lens of purposively selected BHWs. The study focused on the formation and impact of bonding and bridging social capital among BHWs, the influence of these networks on health promotion efforts, and the mechanisms through which BHWs overcome collaboration risks and institutional collective action dilemmas. Results indicated that BHWs leverage bonding social capital, formed through shared experiences and values, to foster trust, commitment, and cohesion. Bridging social capital, facilitated by the BHW President and the BHW Association of Malabon, Inc., helped integrate new BHWs and supported the continuity of health promotion activities despite political and organizational challenges. These networks helped mitigate collaboration risks, enhance decision-making capacity, and ensure effective health promotion governance. Policy recommendations include formalizing support for the BHW Association, providing incentives for BHWs, and promoting stable employment to strengthen these networks and sustain health promotion efforts.