Enhancing crisis communication and risk management competencies: A qualitative study of city information officers

Enrico B. Galicia & John Matthew Aquino

Volume 5 Issue 4, December 2024

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the risk management, communication, and crisis response competencies of city information officers in San Pablo City, Philippines local government, focusing on how these officers effectively handle emergencies and manage public communication. Through semi-structured interviews with 15 regular staff members and 5 job-order workers, the study provides in-depth insights into their strengths and areas for improvement in crisis management. Thematic analysis of the interview data revealed that, while officers face certain challenges, such as occasional communication delays and limited formal training in risk management, they have demonstrated resilience and adaptability in high-pressure situations. Participants shared successful strategies they have employed, such as leveraging existing networks and utilizing local knowledge to ensure timely information dissemination during emergencies. Additionally, strong teamwork and interdepartmental collaboration were noted as strengths, enabling more efficient crisis response. The study highlights opportunities for further enhancing these competencies through targeted professional development programs in risk management and crisis communication. The findings suggest that, with the right support and training, city information officers can continue to improve their effectiveness in managing public communication during emergencies, ensuring better coordination and quicker responses to crises. This research provides practical recommendations for local government units to capitalize on existing strengths while addressing training gaps to further bolster their crisis management capabilities.

Keywords

Author information & Contribution

Enrico B. Galicia. Corresponding author. Master in Public Administration, City Information Officer, San Pablo City Local Government Unit. Philippines. Email: galiciaenrico@gmail.com

John Matthew Aquino. PhD. MPA Program Chair, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng San Pablo. Executive Assistant to the City Mayor, City Management Information Systems Officer, San Pablo City Local Government Unit. Philippines.

“All authors equally contributed to the conception, design, preparation, data gathering and analysis, and writing of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.”

Disclosure statement

Funding

Institutional Review Board Statement

AI Declaration

Notes

Acknowledgement

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Cite this article:

Galicia, E.B. & Aquino, J.M. (2024). Enhancing crisis communication and risk management competencies: A qualitative study of city information officers. International Journal of Academe and Industry Research, 5(4), 81-97. https://doi.org/10.53378/ijair.353117