Social Capital and Prospects for Collaborative Governance: An Ethnographic Case Study of Sama-Bajaus' Post-Disaster Experiences

Abstract

Post-disaster recovery highly depends on the strength of social capital within affected communities. It facilitates collective action, resource mobilisation, and collaboration among involved actors. This paper explores the collaborative efforts through social capital ties among the Sama-Bajau community, local government, and non-governmental organisations following Super Typhoon Rai in the Philippines on December 16, 2021. Through an ethnographic approach, findings suggest that bonding social capital ensures affected Sama-Bajau households prompt relief efforts and secure the sustainability of their lifestyle. Bridging social capital with non-government and faith-based organisations connects the community to other civil societies and the local government. However, weak linking social capital with national and local government units contributes to the exclusion of Indigenous communities from other forms of aid. Our findings underscore the importance of fostering inclusive socio-cultural interventions and strengthening their social capital to enhance the effectiveness of collaborative governance with Indigenous communities.