Business Policies on Crisis Management Among Select Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Bataan: Towards an Enhanced Crisis Management Policies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.504Keywords:
Business Continuity, COVID-19 Pandemic, Crisis Management, Digital Adaptation, Economic Resilience, Merchandising SMEs, Organizational Preparedness, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management, Technological AdoptionAbstract
This study examined the crisis management policies, economic responses, and survival strategies of merchandising Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Bataan Province during the COVID-19 pandemic. Anchored on crisis management theories such as Burnett’s Crisis Management Model, Fink’s Crisis Model, Mitroff’s Five-Stage Crisis Management Model, and Jaques’ Relational Model of Crisis Management, the study explored how SMEs adapted to prolonged disruptions caused by public health emergencies. The research employed a qualitative descriptive design using semistructured interviews, observations, document analysis, and data triangulation. Respondents consisted of eleven SME owners and managers in Bataan Province selected through purposive sampling. A self-made interview questionnaire validated by experts served as the primary research instrument. Data were analyzed using coding, thematic categorization, and reflective interpretation following the approach of Roper and Shapira (2000). Findings revealed that SMEs generally complied with government-imposed health and operational policies through the implementation of health protocols, strict adherence to regulations, supply chain adjustments, digital payment systems, and the utilization of online platforms for business operations. Businesses managed economic challenges by modifying operating hours, controlling inventory and expenses, implementing flexible personnel arrangements, and prioritizing employee safety over profit. Despite the absence of formal crisis management and business continuity plans, SMEs demonstrated resilience through adaptive and reactive strategies, effective communication, and operational flexibility. The study concluded that organizational adaptability, technological adoption, stakeholder coordination, and government support were essential in sustaining SMEs during the pandemic. It recommended stronger crisis management training, improved policy dissemination, enhanced financial assistance, and support for digital business transformation to strengthen SME preparedness and resilience in future crises. The study supports Sustainable Development Goals such as SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by emphasizing SME resilience, innovation, and local economic continuity during crises. The study’s sustainability impact lies in promoting organizational preparedness, economic stability, technological adaptation, and institutional support mechanisms that contribute to long-term business sustainability and community resilience during emergencies.
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