Community-Level Disaster Rehabilitation and Recovery: Performance of Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees in the Tagoloan River Basin, Southern Philippines

Abstract

The recurrence of climate-related hazards highlights the critical role of local governments in ensuring resilience and recovery. This study assessed the performance of Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees (BDRRMCs) in implementing post-disaster rehabilitation and recovery functions in the Tagoloan River Basin (TRB) in the Southern Philippines. Using a descriptive mixed-methods design, data were collected from 152 respondents across 26 barangays and complemented by focus group discussions. Results show that BDRRMC tasks were only partially accomplished, with overall performance rated satisfactory (mean = 3.28). Multiple linear regression analysis identified the Punong Barangay’s educational attainment and years in service, BDRRMC budget allocations, and community experience with floods and heavy rainfall as significant predictors of performance. Qualitative findings revealed persistent challenges related to resource constraints, coordination gaps, environmental governance issues, and limitations in recovery planning. While barangay mechanisms demonstrate commitment to post-disaster functions, systemic institutional and capacity constraints hinder effectiveness. The study concludes that strengthening leadership capacity, ensuring sustained financing, and reinforcing institutional support mechanisms are essential to improving post-disaster recovery outcomes. The findings underscore the need for targeted capacity-building and governance reforms to bridge the gap between statutory mandates and community-level implementation in river basin settings.