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Paper short abstract:

This paper explores the characteristics, challenges, and considerations of social protection programs in the Philippines to strengthen disaster and climate resilience. It addresses a critical research gap by examining how these programs are utilised to support overall resilience efforts.

Paper long abstract:

The Philippines has introduced over sixty social protection programs over the years. highlight persistent issues such as limited coverage (Orbeta, 2011; Gonzalez and Manasan, 2002), targeting inefficiencies (Dadap-Cantal, Fisher, and Ramos, 2021), program fragmentation, and incoherent social policies (Diokno-Sicat and Mariano, 2018, 2021). However, there is limited research on how these programs are utilised for disaster and climate resilience. This paper examines the characteristics, challenges, and considerations of social protection programs in the Philippines to enhance resilience. Data were collected through desk reviews and in-depth interviews with stakeholders at the national, sub-national, and local levels who are involved in implementing social protection programs. The analysis revealed that while the Philippine government has launched numerous programs aimed at poverty reduction, well-being, and overall resilience, their effectiveness in addressing disaster and climate risks remains limited. Many of these programs were not originally designed with disaster and climate resilience in mind. Although some initiatives incorporate risk assessments and prioritize high-risk populations in areas prone to climate shocks and stresses, further improvements are required to make these programs genuinely risk-informed. Moreover, while some programs show potential to support long-term adaptive strategies and reduce vulnerability, they often remain focused on short-term measures and lack sustained funding. The findings underscore the urgent need for robust programs that mitigate current risks, prevent new vulnerabilities, and foster household resilience. Strengthening these initiatives is essential to ensure rapid recovery from shocks, prevent individuals from falling back into poverty, and discourage reliance on harmful coping strategies.