Abstract

The Philippines’ geographical location and high population density, along with the effects of climate change, make the country vulnerable to disasters like typhoons, fires, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. Densely populated areas, such as Tondo, Manila, are especially at risk, necessitating stronger community disaster preparedness and response efforts. Thus, this study examined the predictors and level of disaster response self-efficacy (DRSE) among adult residents of highly dense barangays in Tondo, Manila. The study utilised a descriptive correlational research design. A total of 281 participants from three selected, highly dense barangays in Tondo, Manila, were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using an adapted and validated instrument that assessed disaster response self-efficacy and its associated predictors. The reliability of the instrument was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha, and the data were analysed using multiple linear regression in IBM SPSS Version 25. Significant predictors of disaster response self-efficacy included community support (B = 0.382, p < 0.000), past disaster experience (B = 0.196, p < 0.000), perceived susceptibility (B = 0.169, p = 0.006), and monthly income (B = -0.00000685, p = 0.005). No significant associations were observed for gender, education level, duration of residence, geographical perspective, or perceived severity of the condition. Overall, participants exhibited high disaster response self-efficacy. Community support, past disaster experiences, and perceived susceptibility all enhance disaster response self-efficacy in highly dense urban populations, while income constraints appear to be a limiting factor. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health strategies to strengthen community resilience and preparedness in vulnerable areas.