Confronting conflict and Psycho-Social adversities: leadership challenges and peacebuilding responses in Zamboanga peninsula Philippines

Purpose This study aims to examine the lived experiences of local leaders in remote, conflict-affected communities in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines, focusing on the challenges they encounter and the strategies they use to sustain peace, security and social cohesion. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative transcendental phenomenological design was employed to capture the essence of leadership experiences in conflict settings. Ten (10) purposively selected community leaders participated in in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method, enabling the systematic extraction of significant statements, thematic clustering, and synthesis of lived meanings. Findings The findings reveal two central dimensions: (1) persistent sociopolitical instability and psychosocial distress affecting both leaders and residents, and (2) adaptive leadership strategies anchored in strengthened collaboration with authorities, progressive conflict resolution, and community-driven peacebuilding. These strategies contribute to incremental improvements in safety, trust and collective resilience despite structural constraints. Research limitations/implications The study is limited by its qualitative scope and small sample size, which may constrain generalizability. However, it provides in-depth, context-specific insights into leadership practices in conflict-affected rural settings. Practical implications The findings highlight the need for strengthened institutional support, leadership capacity-building in conflict mediation, and the promotion of community-based peacebuilding mechanisms in marginalized areas. Social implications Addressing psychosocial vulnerabilities through integrated interventions – such as mental health support, livelihood programs and inclusive governance – can enhance long-term community resilience and stability. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by extending transformational leadership theory into conflict-affected rural contexts and offering an integrated perspective on leadership, conflict dynamics and community resilience in geographically isolated communities.