Proactive and Reactive Disaster Response Mechanisms of Masbate City Airport (Moises R. Espinosa Airport)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21280646Keywords:
airport disaster response, disaster risk reduction, Masbate City Airport, public administration, reactive procedures, typhoon preparednessAbstract
This study examined the proactive and reactive disaster response mechanisms of Masbate City Airport, also known as Moises R. Espinosa Airport, during typhoon-related incidents from 2020 to 2025. It focused on how public administration strengthens disaster risk reduction through preparedness, emergency response, recovery, coordination, and operational resilience. The study employed a qualitative descriptive research design with a phenomenological approach. Five key airport personnel from Airport Management, Air Traffic Services, Air Navigation Services, Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting, and Civil Security Intelligence were purposively selected because of their direct involvement in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed three proactive themes: anticipatory planning and risk-based preparedness, protection of critical assets and airport facilities, and centralized coordination for disaster preparedness. Reactive procedures were reflected in five themes: safety-centered emergency response, adaptive operations and service continuity, continuous and coordinated communication, immediate rescue and life-safety response, and coordinated recovery and operational resumption. The study also identified major challenges involving resource and communication limitations, coordination and manpower gaps during prolonged emergencies, and physical hazards with limited response capacity. The study concludes that Masbate City Airport has established practical disaster mechanisms, but their effectiveness depends on reliable communication, adequate personnel, updated equipment, inter-unit coordination, and management-level decision-making. A strategic action plan is recommended to strengthen the airport’s disaster preparedness and resilience during future typhoon emergencies.
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