Influencing factors for resilient livelihood development in local government unit-administered resettled communities

Abstract The resettlement of communities due to natural disasters or other crises often disrupts livelihoods, social networks, and economic activities that pose significant challenges in achieving resilience and recovery. This study investigates the factors influencing resilient livelihood development in local government unit (LGU)–administered resettled communities in Metro Manila, Philippines, focusing on voluntary resettlement. It is the type of resettlement where the community or households agree to be relocated to a new location after being assured of standard living conditions and legal stay. Anchored on the Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF), which examines human, social, physical, financial, and natural capital, the research evaluates how these dimensions are affected by crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and recurring economic downturns. Unlike previous studies that emphasize economic factors alone, this research integrates SLF to analyze the interplay of resilience factors in resettled communities. The study also provides actionable insights to identify livelihood resilience strategies for resettlement planning that are envisioned to mitigate the long-term impacts of urban crises and livelihood development in resettled communities. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining qualitative methods such as key informant interviews with a quantitative analysis approach based on household surveys. The qualitative data provided insights into community experiences and institutional responses, while the quantitative analysis measured the degree of impact on livelihood capitals. Findings revealed that disruptions to human and financial capital were most pronounced during the pandemic, exacerbating vulnerabilities and reducing adaptive capacities in resettled communities. This highlights the need for inclusive economic recovery strategies and strengthening institutional frameworks. The study provides actionable insights for determining livelihood resilience strategies for resettlement planning that mitigate the long-term impacts of urban crises and livelihood development in resettled communities.