DEDICATION This work is dedicated to my grandparents, Mr. Arturo M. Manaloto and Ms. Nilda B. Royo-Manaloto, Dr. Juan M.

Mecenario and Mrs. Asuncion Z. Mecenario, my parents, Mr. Aaron R. Manaloto and Dr. Marilyn M. Manaloto, my sister April M. Lignes, her husband Ariel and to my niece and nephews, Amari Princess, Aaron Ace, Aaron King and Aaron Jack, and to my very supportive uncle and mentor, Engr. John Arvin R. Manaloto. I also dedicate this to the past, present and future government officials of the Municipality of Aroroy and Province of Masbate.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT I would like to thank the following people: My family, for their love and undying support to all my endeavours. The government officials of the Municipality of Aroroy and the impact barangays, for all the help extended to me during the conduct of my survey. Hon. Digna G. Maristela and my former boss, the late Hon. Arturo Vicente P. Maristela, for inspiring me to always value the voice of the people, and of course, My adviser, Mrs. ________ Romblon, for without her patience and intelligent judgment, this work would have never been accomplished.