Publication
Abstract: The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) - Emergency Medical Services is primarily responsible for providing emergency care that aligns with its core functions. With this, the study explored the lived experiences of BFP–EMS personnel in responding to motor vehicular accidents in selected municipalities of Ilocos Sur. It aimed to provide a broader understanding of their experiences, feelings, and challenges, ultimately to make meaning from these experiences. Eight BFP–EMS personnel participated in the study, all of whom were selected based on their experience in rescue operations and their ability to articulate their insights. Using a qualitative design grounded in Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the study aimed to describe, comprehend, and interpret the essence of their lived experiences. Data were gathered through semi-structured, in-depth interviews, which were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically until data saturation was reached. Findings showed two main themes. Initially, it included the different (1) Qualities of Firefighters, portraying how these attributes are upheld in the provision of care to patients. On the other hand, the other main theme (2) Unveiled Realities, provided a personal lens on the different challenges they faced in the provision of care. In summary, the study provided empirical grounded accounts of BFP-EMS reflected from their lived realities. These data demonstrate how BFP-EMS personnel embody the qualities of responders and firefighters while highlighting the various barriers they face. Thus, this study provides a context-specific basis for improving processes and ensuring responders' health.
Keywords: Emergency Medical Services, Firefighters, Interpretive Phenomenology
Abstract: Rescuers in the Philippines face significant physical and emotional challenges during disaster operations. The absence of a formal Emergency Medical Services (EMS) law, along with limited research on the lived experiences of rescuers, and the geographical location of the country, has contributed to fragmented and inconsistent disaster response efforts.This study aimed to uncoverthe essential experiences of Ilokano rescuers during the onslaught of Typhoon Maring in the 2nd district of Ilocos Sur. A descriptive phenomenological design was employedto explore deeper on the phenomenon, and data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with nine local responders who were directly involved in the rescue operations.Thematic analysis revealed three major themes: (1) Emotional Capacity, which encompassed a range of emotional experiences such as fear, sadness, trauma, and contentment; (2) Myriad Obstacles, which included barriers to effective rescue such as a lack of rescuers, limited resources, resistance from affected individuals, gender role limitations, and environmental challenges; and (3) Support Received, referring to the interventions and assistance provided by both workplaces and families during and after rescue operations.These findings underscore the urgent need for a unified EMS framework in the Philippines to enhance coordination, ensure responder safety, and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, sustainable support systems that address the psychological and professional needs of rescuers are critical to strengthening the country’s overall emergency preparedness and response capacity.
Keywords: ilokanorescuers, filipino EMS, descriptive phenomenology
On-going
- Diabetes Mellitus Management Practices among Residents in Selected Municipalities in Metro Vigan, Ilocos Sur (2025), SDG 3 – (HN-25-4)
- Interprofessional Collaborative of Healthcare Workers in Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital Gabriela-Silang: A Mixed Method Study (2025), SDG 3, 17 – (HN-25-5)
- Work-Life Balance of Parents of Cerebral Palsy Patients: A Mixed Method (2024), SDG 3, 10 – (HN-24-1)
- A Mixed Methods Study on the Nursing Workspace (2023), SDG 3, 8 – (SS-24-14)
Presentation
Citations
Sorry, but there’s nothing here.