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Adviser
The study was conducted to explore the roles and functions of barangay officials on COVID-19 response, using the Barangay of Tagapo in Santa Rosa, Laguna as a case study to analyze their roles in the areas of emergency management, specifically in mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The study used a qualitative research method with a total of 19 key informants from the barangay officials and residents who previously contracted the virus. Moreover, the study utilized primary data from the interviews and secondary data to supplement the data from the interviews The results were presented in a descriptive narrative as thematized. Based on the findings, the roles played by barangay officials were concentrated in the areas of mitigation and preparedness. The findings highlighted the importance of recognizing limiting factors that influence the ability of barangay officials to fulfill their duties given the lack of preparedness in responding to health crises, whereas facilitating factors imply that the sense of service, rather than the sense of obligation as public servants, appears to intensify functions performed by the officials. Furthermore, the ordinances and activities implemented are enabling aspects in emergency management's mitigation and preparedness efforts.