"Abe-Abe Bang Matibe (Stronger Together)": Exploring the Lifeworld of Filipino Emergency Responders
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: : Emergency responders are at the forefront of any disaster response. The intense psychological demand and repeated exposure to trauma are inherent to this profession; hence, the need for a deep exploration and understanding of their lifeworld. This study examined the lived experiences of 14 Filipino Emergency Responders. Using Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method, data were gathered through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Analysis revealed a general psychological structure of their experience, constituted by four primary themes: waiting, duty and the immediate call; handling tragedy and the aftershock; finding strength in the team and personal time; and dealing with poor support and asking for respect. The findings illuminate the profound realization of life’s fragility and the indispensable role of informal debriefing among colleagues as a primary coping mechanism. The implication of this study is the critical need for formalized and proactive mental health support systems to sustain the well-being of these vital professionals.
Institution: Miriam College
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7162780384
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