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Patterns and Changes in the Utilization of Barangay Disaster Funds: Evidence from Selected Communities in Eastern Samar and Catanduanes

Barangays are the first line of protection when disasters strike, yet incomplete utilization records, fragmented government oversight and limited technical capacity can prevent disaster funds from being used strategically to protect communities.

Focusing on 12 barangays across six municipalities in Eastern Samar and Catanduanes, this study examines how Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Funds were used from 2020 to 2024. It finds wide differences in spending rates, but a common tendency to fund short-term, tangible items such as relief goods, equipment and training. Investments in prevention, climate adaptation and livelihood recovery were rare, while community-identified needs, including support for farmers, fisherfolk, women, older people, persons with disabilities and young people, did not consistently shape spending.

The study recommends better reporting and coordination among oversight agencies, continuing technical support for barangay planning and budgeting, and participatory processes that give communities a stronger voice in deciding how disaster funds are used.