Improving Disaster Response Efficiency: Incident Command System Implementation as basis for Administrative Policy reform in Las Piñas

This study explores the implementation of the Incident Command System (ICS) in selected barangays of Las Piñas City as a basis for administrative policy reform. Given the Philippines' high vulnerability to natural disasters, effective coordination and interoperability among local responders are essential. The ICS, mandated by Republic Act 10121, provides a standardized framework to enhance command, control, coordination and resource management during emergencies. However, uneven application across barangays has led to operational inefficiencies and delayed response efforts. The primary purpose of this research is to assess the effectiveness and challenges of ICS implementation in ten disaster-prone barangays within Las Piñas City, focusing on five key components: Command, Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Administration Finance. A qualitative descriptive design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews, guided questionnaires, and video documentation involving 20 purposively selected co-participants from Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (BDRRMOs). Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis method. Results indicated that while the ICS framework improves disaster coordination and response capabilities, several challenges hinder its full execution, including limited training, lack of resource, and budgetary constrains. The findings underscore the need for adaptive strategies tailored to local contexts to strengthen community resilience. The study concludes that the ICS, when effectively implemented, can significantly enhance disaster response efficiency at the barangay level. It recommends administrative reforms focused on continuous training, strategic resource allocation, standardized protocols, and improved local governance to institutionalize ICS practices and improve disaster preparedness and responsiveness in Las Piñas City.