4. Autonomous Adaptation and Governmental Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic: Exploring the Resilience of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the Philippines

This chapter delves into the critical role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippine economy, particularly their significance in socio-economic development and employment. It examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on MSMEs, highlighting the vulnerabilities and challenges they faced due to lockdowns and economic disruptions. The study also reviews the government's response to the pandemic, including policy bases and institutional arrangements, and assesses the effectiveness of these measures in supporting MSMEs. Additionally, it presents the findings of a survey conducted among MSME managers and workers, revealing their perceptions of resilience and the adaptive strategies they employed to mitigate the pandemic's effects. The chapter concludes with policy recommendations to enhance MSME resilience and suggests areas for further research.