Disaster Response Implementation and Effectiveness in Coastal BARMM, Philippines: A Study of Typhoon Survivors

The Philippines experiences frequent typhoons that threaten lives and disrupt the livelihoods of coastal communities, particularly those who are dependent on fishing, small-scale enterprises, and agriculture. In the BARMM region, coastal communities are highly vulnerable to recurring typhoons due to their geographic location and various socio-economic challenges. These conditions greatly influence the effectiveness of disaster response mechanisms in the area, as communities often face difficulties in accessing resources, services, and timely assistance during and after disasters. This study examines the implementation and effectiveness of disaster response. It identifies key challenges faced by typhoon survivors and the strategies they proposed to strengthen resilience in 12 coastal barangays in Maguindanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur, Philippines. A convergent mixed-methods design was employed, using a structured survey of 240 typhoon survivors and qualitative responses analyzed through thematic analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman's rank correlation and complemented with qualitative responses analyzed through thematic analysis. The relationship of the variables was measured by numerical data supported by real-life experiences. Results revealed a strong positive relationship between disaster response implementation and effectiveness (ρ = 0.8997, p < 0.001). Key determinants of effectiveness include communication systems, availability of flood-adapted rescue vehicles, and the provision of essential needs. Qualitative findings highlight operational constraints, including communication barriers and limited access in remote areas, as well as the need for improved coordination, community participation, and DRRM training. Drawing on the typhoon survivors’ perspectives, the study provides experience-based insights into the gaps between institutional response capacity and local-level realities. The findings emphasize the importance of strengthening local government capacity, infrastructure, and community engagement to enhance disaster response systems and build resilience in vulnerable coastal communities.

disaster response, community resilience, coastal vulnerability, disaster risk reduction, BARMM

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