Collaborative governance: Multifaceted strategies for disaster response in Cebu province

This study examined the level of implementation, strategies, and challenges of collaborative governance during disaster response in Cebu Province. A total of 42 respondents from various disaster response agencies, including the Bureau of Fire Protection, local disaster risk reduction offices, and health emergency services, participated in the survey. The results showed that collaborative governance mechanisms were generally well-practiced, with strong inter-agency coordination, regular joint planning, effective resource sharing, and clear evacuation procedures. Early warning systems, pre-positioned supplies, and shelter management were identified as major strengths that contributed to rapid and organized disaster response. However, several challenges persisted. The most significant barriers reported were insufficient resources and logistics, followed by data management issues and communication gaps. Limited coordination among agencies, low stakeholder participation, and capacity and training issues were also noted but ranked as less critical. These challenges suggest the need for enhanced funding, clearer information-sharing protocols, and more inclusive engagement of community members and partners. Despite these obstacles, the study found that the majority of disaster response practices reflected a high level of preparedness and cooperation. Strengthening transparency, accountability, and training initiatives could further improve performance and build trust among stakeholders. Overall, the findings emphasize that while Cebu Province has established effective systems for managing disasters, addressing resource constraints, and improving collaboration can significantly enhance resilience and community safety. These insights can inform policy development, capacity building, and future disaster management planning in similar settings.