[1] DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF MARAWI: IMPLEMENTATION STATUS AND CHALLENGES

ARTICLE INFO: Date of Submission: Jan 18, 2026, Revised: Jan 30, 2026, Accepted: Feb 03 , 2026, CrossRef D.O.I : https://doi.org/10.56815/ijmrr.v5i2.2026.1-6, HOW TO CITE: Hosnie M. Gogo (2026). Digital Transformation in the City Government of Marawi: Implementation Status and Challenges. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research & Reviews, 5(2), 1-6.

Abstract

This study explored the implementation status of digital initiatives in the City Government of Marawi, with particular focus on the issues, challenges, and recommendations associated with their adoption. Specifically, the research examined the types of digital initiatives implemented, their degree of adoption, the barriers affecting their effectiveness, and the strategies proposed by stakeholders to enhance their functionality. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from key government personnel and stakeholders involved in the city’s digital services through structured questionnaires and interviews. Findings revealed that social media-based services (40.0%) and internal communication tools (33.3%) were the most commonly implemented initiatives, while critical citizen-facing platforms such as online payments (22.0%), mobile services (20.0%), and open data portals (18.7%) had low adoption rates. The overall weighted mean of 1.90 indicated that digital initiatives in Marawi are generally weak in implementation. Key challenges identified included poor internet connectivity, system downtime, lack of training, limited rural access, insufficient technical support, resistance to change, and budget constraints, highlighting both technical and institutional barriers. Respondents recommended system performance improvements, staff training, awareness campaigns, technical support services, offline access options, and increased ICT budget allocations to address these challenges and enhance adoption. These recommendations underscore the need for a multi- dimensional approach that combines technological upgrades, human capacity development, inclusive access strategies, and sustainable funding. The study concluded that while Marawi has made progress in internal and communication-oriented digital tools, the implementation of advanced, citizen-centric services remains limited. Addressing infrastructural gaps, enhancing organizational capacity, and promoting inclusive access are essential to achieving effective, responsive, and sustainable digital governance. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to strengthen the impact of e-governance initiatives, contributing to improved service delivery, operational efficiency, citizen engagement, and governance outcomes, in alignment with global digital governance frameworks and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.