Abstract
This study investigates the extent and impact of community proactive involvement in disaster risk mitigation and management (DRRM) in Burdeos, Quezon, Philippines. Using a quantitative, descriptive-correlational design, it surveyed 130 respondents across 13 barangays through a validated questionnaire. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, one-sample t-tests, and Pearson correlation to assess both the extent of community involvement and its relationship with perceived DRRM effectiveness. Findings revealed very low levels of community participation in most DRRM activities, except for modest engagement in planning and search-and-rescue. Barriers included livelihood-related time constraints, lack of institutional support, limited resources, and insufficient training opportunities. Despite these challenges, a strong, positive correlation (r = .61, p < .01) was found between community involvement and perceived DRRM effectiveness. Based on these results, the study recommends concrete community-level actions such as certified training programs, cash-for-work DRRM projects, livelihood-integrated mitigation activities, inclusive participation strategies, flexible scheduling, school-based involvement, and the use of digital platforms for mobilization. To institutionalize these efforts, specific amendments to Republic Act 10121 are proposed: (a) establishment of barangay DRRM councils with decision-making authority, (b) mandatory sectoral representation (women, youth, PWDs, farmers, fisherfolk), (c) allocation of at least 10% of local DRRM funds for community-led initiatives, (d) integration of livelihood support with DRRM programs, and (e) implementation of annual Barangay DRRM Scorecards for monitoring and accountability. The enhanced framework underscores participatory governance, empowerment, and localized capacity-building as essential drivers of disaster resilience. By bridging the gap between policy and grassroots realities, this study contributes to strengthening community-based DRRM and advancing a more inclusive, resilient governance model in the Philippines.
