Mitigating the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Human Development: The Case of Tortugas, Balanga City, Bataan

Authors

Patrick C. De Leon, University of the Philippines Diliman - Extension Program in PampangaFollow

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze how Barangay Tortugas implemented its programs and projects to mitigate the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of the three elements of human development (health, education, and access to resources). Data were gathered through key informant interviews using a structured questionnaire. Purposive sampling was used in selecting respondents comprised of eight barangay officials, the school principal, 13 teachers, and 60 beneficiaries of the Barangay Kitchen Station and the vaccination program. Results of the study showed that among the various programs and projects being implemented in the barangay, only three (3) were successful. First, the vaccination program was able to keep the number of COVID-19 cases to a minimum when an incentive in the form of rice distribution was given to the recipients. Second, its education project, the Gulong ng Pag-asa project, which was jointly implemented by the school and barangay officials, prevented children from dropping out of school and ensured their continuous acquisition of knowledge amidst the pandemic. Lastly, the Barangay Kitchen Station, an innovative project that prepared and distributed hot meals, was able to supplement the food or nutritional needs of its constituents during the pandemic.

To ensure continuity and sustainability in future undertakings given a similar situation, the following recommendations are given: (a) give priority to programs and projects that address the three elements of human development; (b) nurture the spirit of cooperation and volunteerism; (c) use a more precise way of describing or measuring the mitigating effects of barangay programs and projects on human development; and (d) adopt a comparative perspective and experience in future research studies.

Recommended Citation

De Leon, Patrick C. (2025) "Mitigating the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Human Development: The Case of Tortugas, Balanga City, Bataan," Journal of Public Affairs and Development: Vol. 10: No. 2, Article 3.
Available at: https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/jpad/vol10/iss2/3