Disaster Management Practices Among Cities in the National Capital Region: Towards Development of a Mitigation Plan

The Philippines, particularly low-lying NCR cities like Marikina, Malabon, and Navotas, is highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters. This study compared disaster management practices in recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction, and examined how these relate to LGU institutional capacity. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from CEMO/CENRO, DRRM, and CSWDO personnel through questionnaires, interviews, and document reviews. Results show that recovery and rehabilitation are consistently implemented, while reconstruction practices vary. Budgets, facilities, and manpower are generally strong, but technology integration differs across cities. Significant differences in disaster management practices were observed, with higher LGU capacity strongly correlating with more effective implementation (r = 0.852, p = 0.002). The findings highlight the need to enhance reconstruction, technology use, and relocation strategies to support resilient, evidence-based mitigation planning.