Disaster Preparedness in Local Government Units: An Assessment of Planning and Implementation Practices

Abstract

Prior studies have identified gaps between formal disaster plans and operational readiness, but do not establish how barangay leaders in Bohol’s Second District assess local planning and implementation practices. This study examined perceived implementation and effectiveness of disaster preparedness programs across fourteen municipalities during the second semester of academic year 2024–2025. A descriptive-correlational survey included 175 Punong Barangays drawn from a reported population of 318. A researcher-made questionnaire assessed hazard identification, risk assessment, early warning systems, evaluation protocols, and shelter and relief distribution, alongside perceived program effectiveness. Frequency counts, percentages, means, independent-samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation were used. Overall implementation (M = 4.30) and perceived effectiveness (M = 4.29) were rated very high. No statistically significant group differences were identified by age, gender, educational attainment, or years of service at α = .05. Implementation and perceived effectiveness were positively associated (r = .809, p < .001). This association does not establish that implementation causes effectiveness. The findings offer a basis for reviewing local preparedness practices, although self-reporting, overlapping constructs, incomplete methodological documentation, and inconsistencies in component-level reporting limit interpretation. Recommendations emphasize warning-system maintenance, inclusive shelter arrangements, participatory risk assessment, and independent verification of operational readiness.