An analysis of the exchange process within selected Iloilo City-based Chinese organizations and their external relations with the local government unit of Iloilo City (1992-present)

Abstract

This study examines the exchange process within selected Iloilo City-based Chinese organizations and their external relations with the local government of Iloilo City from 1992- present. Their bargaining and lobbying strategies with the Local Government of Iloilo City were identified from 1992 to the present and were compared from that of John Omohundro’s study in 1971-1973 of the Chinese merchant families in Iloilo. Exchange theory was used to analyze and understand the relationship between the two parties. The study had five guiding objectives. Five selected Iloilo City-based Chinese organizations, the executive and legislative members of the Iloilo City Local Government including the PNP Police Chief composed the subjects of the study. In-depth interview and archival research were conducted to gather necessary information to answer the objectives of the study. The results of the study revealed that across time the Chinese organizations in Iloilo City has adopted various means and strategies to pursue and protect their interests depending on the level of pressures and threats coming from within the community and from the external environment. There have been apparent manifestations that their strategies have been effective in bringing about legal measures to protect them, especially their business and defense interests.