Article Preview
TopIntroduction
The dynamic and sometimes complicated relationship between and among agencies suggests the arduous role of public managers. Administrative theories on disaster management emphasize specific managerial challenges during a crisis such as the need for a timely response; the necessity to identify issues related to the coordination among personnel, structures, and responders; and to determine the limitations of command and control (Sementelli, 2007).
Despite the complexity of inter-organizational relationships, understanding the dynamics of these partnerships remains relevant. Theoretically, Bryson, Crosby, and Stone (2006) pioneered the comprehensive approach to cross-sector collaboration with an emphasis on the challenges and constraints in the aspects of collaborative process and structures. Thomson and Perry (2006), Ansell and Gash (2008), Agranoff (2007), Provan and Kenis (2008), Emerson, Nabatchi, and Balogh (2012) and Koschmann, Kuhn and Pfarrer (2012) empirically explored the variables of collaborative management, network theory as well as the various factors and contingencies that lead to successful collaboration. On the other hand, Kapucu (2015), Kapucu, Arslan and Demiroz (2010), Kapucu, Arslan and Collins (2010) examined emergency management response scenarios and postulated theories on what constitutes better and effective disaster response. Almost all of the mentioned scholars emphasized the necessity of collaboration towards better public service. However, only a few studies have been made on collaborative governance during disasters particularly typhoons (Kapucu, Arslan, & Demiroz, 2010; Djalante et al., 2013; and Nurmandi et al., 2015).
This research aims to provide empirical analysis on what constitutes successful disaster governance in the context of the Philippines. This article examines the question: How do the previous performance of the disaster management network influence the aspects of governance process (initial agreements, leadership, planning, trust, and managing conflict) and how it affects the existing relationships in the network?
Primarily, previous performance as used in this study is based on the self-assessment of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council or disaster management network members on their execution of the disaster response targets. Hence, previous performance refers to the initial conditions of the cross-sector collaboration. On the other hand, existing relationship pertains to the characteristics of the connection among network members and therefore serves as the outcome of the collaborative efforts in disaster management. This research output could serve as basis for national and local governments to consider institutional changes appropriate to the needs of the implementing agencies. Moreover, the findings propose new and basic knowledge on public administration which are not yet fully explored in the context of disaster management.
Disasters are characterized by unexpected or unusual size and causes disruptions to the communication and decision- making capabilities, require decentralized decision making and intensive human interactions (Kapucu & Van Wart, 2006). Managing disasters require dynamic processes which are ideal yet demanding for government at all levels. The Greek word “krisis” refers to tensions that call for critical judgments, exercising critique, reflexivity, which would inform decisions reached and actions taken (Antonacopoulou & Sheaffer, 2014). With transformational leadership ensconced at the top, the next step is to get these very engaged organizational members to look not only at the good of the organization but also at the greater societal good with the temptation of federalizing disaster response put away, leadership must recognize the need for a basic change in relationships within and across governments (Lester & Krejci, 2007). Thus, collaboration among organizations and government agencies is essential for the development of an effective strategy and better performance during disaster response.