Transfers-induced gerrymandering under decentralization in the Philippines

Abstract

While gerrymandering in developing countries is often pushed by local authorities to secure political advantages, fiscal grants systems under decentralization may also result in the same. We investigate this issue to identify the correlates of the growth in the number of cities in the Philippines in 2001-2010. Using a panel of municipal-level data, population pressure is found to be the main factor that drives cityhood. Also, the likelihood of the same ruling political family to remain in office in 2010 is found to be higher in new cities. Reforms in the country's fiscal transfer program are suggested.