BandAid: a case study on international disaster relief assistance in Barangay Malaban, Biñan, Laguna and Barangay Poblacion, Muntinlupa

Abstract

Does giving aid necessarily equate to development? In the case of the Philippines, a steady recipient of foreign aid, this does not come as true. It does not change the rate of the escalating poverty incidence in the country nor contribute so much to the Gross Domestic Product. Although incessant help has flowed to the country in forms of budget support or cash to the government, it is still far beyond from its goal of sustainable growth. In the context of foreign disaster relief assistance to the Philippines, it is assumed that foreign aid is needed as an essential for survival in a country prone to disasters. Majority perceive this as a humanitarian or ethical expression, when behind the altruistic cause is directions for socio-political motives or market opportunities of the donor countries. The increasing dependency of assistance involves risks to the Philippines such as misallocation of the support received, or the weakening of it institutions as a result of dependency. This study assesses the performance of international aid assistance to disasterstricken communities, whether it serves the interests of the givers or the takers. With surveys, interviews, and extensive research supporting as primary and secondary data, this research aims to evaluate if foreign aid for disaster relief remedies calamities comprehensively and altogether improves the Philippines' disaster management. But along with the continuous help received by the beneficiaries is the Samaritan's dilemma where the vulnerable relies on charity as means of survival. If the country perpetually endorses foreign aid assistance, will it account for a sustainable development and a culture of safety? As catastrophes are inevitable, consequently it is the same with disaster relief provided by foreign organizations which will be more of a bandaid solution to the gaping wound of the Philippines' economic and social issues.