Capabilities and Difficulties of Barangay Officials in the Implementation of the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management

Abstract:

Republic Act 10121, otherwise known as the "Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010", is the law that strengthens the country's risk reduction and management system. This law aims to provide a unified management plan for responding to emergencies throughout the country. Along this premise, this paper investigated the level of readiness and capabilities of Barangay Officials, including the difficulties they encountered in the implementation of Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM). Data needed for this descriptive paper was collected from 216 respondents using a 45-item self-made instrument that has hurdled the tests of validity and reliability. The ensuing analysis showed high levels of readiness (M=4.20, SD=0.499) and capabilities (M=4.14, SD=0.368) and a low level of difficulties (M=2.10, SD=0.560). The study further revealed no significant difference in the level of readiness (p=0.196), but notably, a significant difference was detected in their capabilities (p=0.008) when grouped according to civil status. Furthermore, a significant difference was found in the level of difficulties (p=0.031) respondents encountered when grouped and by length of service. The study recommends the conduct of a Climate and Disaster Risk Assessment (CDRA), Orientation of a Digital Readiness Strategy Plan, Implementation of Implement Semi-Annual Disaster Risk Reduction Training and Simulation, and vigorous conduct of research on mitigation and control based on the CDRA, among others. 

Keywords: Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, RA 10121, Barangay Officials, readiness, capabilities, difficulties, Negros Occidental.