Article ID: 1817
This study describes the significant role played by PO (People’s Organizations) in disaster recovery in Medellin and Bantayan Island in the northern part of Cebu Province, the Philippines, which was hit by Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. In this area, although the damage caused by the disaster itself has been repaired to some extent, the fundamental problems of poverty and development have not changed since before the disaster. On the other hand, many PO have been created with the support of NGOs. The POs’ main concerns are people’s livelihoods and resistance to development, and their members are getting inspiration and pleasure through participating in PO activities. The support provided by governments, NGOs, and families is limited by political unfairness, sustainability, and problem-solving abilities. This study outlines the significance of PO as new actors that receive assistance, encourage independence among their members, suggest diverse solutions for their members’ problems, and give vitality to their members. Finally, it considers the role of organizations like PO in disaster recovery and alternative future societies from the viewpoint of “exchange theory”.
