Awareness and acceptance of barangay officials in navigating artificial intelligence in data governance

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how governments handle data and deliver public services. This study examined how aware and accepting barangay officials are of the use of artificial intelligence for data governance in selected barangays in Roxas City, Capiz. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, the research focused on measuring awareness and acceptance among barangay officials. The study used a quantitative approach, with a structured survey given to Barangay Captains, Barangay Kagawads, and Sangguniang Kabataan Chairpersons. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis helped assess level of awareness of attitudes, social norms, and perceived control, as well as level of acceptance based on performance expectations, effort, social influence, and available support. Results showed that most respondents had a moderate level of awareness and acceptance of artificial intelligence in data governance. Additionally, the study found that higher awareness led to greater acceptance of artificial intelligence tools. Still, challenges such as limited technical knowledge, insufficient training, and poor infrastructure affected officials' readiness to use artificial intelligence. The findings point to the need for better digital literacy, more training programs, and stronger institutional support to help barangays adopt emerging artificial intelligence. This research contributes to understanding digital governance by showing how awareness and acceptance help local governments, especially at the barangay level, integrate artificial intelligence in barangay operations.