IN THE WAKE of successive storms — “Crising”, “Dante”, and “Emong” — plus an intense southwest monsoon that recently battered Iloilo City, the city government must be given credit for its swift and commendable response. Preemptive evacuations were conducted, relief operations rolled out promptly, and coordination across agencies was largely effective.
However, the wicked weather also exposed what is perhaps the most critical vulnerability in Iloilo City’s disaster response system: weak barangay-level capacity. It is a hard truth, but one that must be confronted. No matter how robust the city’s disaster planning may be, it is only as effective as its most fragile component. And in this case, many barangays proved to be that weak link.
No less than Mayor Raisa Treñas candidly pointed out that some barangay officials failed to attend vital pre-disaster online meetings, and even among those who did, not all followed through with preparations. This gap in grassroots participation directly undermines the city government’s efforts to keep its 180 barangays ready and responsive.
But the issue goes beyond mere attendance. The mayor noted that many barangay leaders were overwhelmed — not from lack of will, but from fatigue, illness, and inadequate systems for delegation. In some cases, the burden of response fell squarely on the barangay captain alone. When he or she was incapacitated, the barangay ground to a halt.
Without a doubt, the problem is structural. Most barangays lack clear protocols for disaster delegation, backup teams, and continuity planning. If “Kap” falters, there is often no one adequately trained or authorized to step in. This management flaw is a recipe for failure in crisis.
It would be wise for the city government to introduce practical reforms beginning with mandatory training in disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) for all barangay officials, not just captains. Each barangay must also be required to establish a formal chain of command for emergencies, with primary and secondary responders designated and trained. Documentation, reporting, and communication protocols must be simplified, standardized, and rehearsed through regular drills.
Additionally, the city must institutionalize accountability. Failure to attend disaster briefings or implement mandated protocols should not go unaddressed. At stake are lives and livelihoods.
The recent storms displaced more than 50,000 residents — a sobering figure that should spur urgent action. While Iloilo City has made significant progress in disaster resilience at the institutional level, it cannot afford to let barangay-level inefficiencies persist. Grassroots response is not an optional layer of protection; it is the foundation of any effective disaster strategy.
If Iloilo is to truly become a resilient city, it must ensure that no barangay is left behind — or worse, left unprepared.
