This phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of residents and local leaders in remote Ifugao communities, Philippines, concerning natural disasters, aiming to develop a responsive, community-based disaster management framework. Utilizing systems thinking, social vulnerability to environmental hazards, community-based disaster management, people's vulnerability and disasters, and social capital theories, the research delves into their experiences across disaster phases, the short- and long-term impacts, and the challenges within existing management systems. Findings reveal that despite geographical isolation and limited formal support, these communities exhibit profound self-reliance, actively engaging in early warning, preparedness, response, and initial recovery through indigenous knowledge and mutual assistance. Disasters inflict severe multi-faceted impacts, including extensive livelihood disruption, agricultural loss leading to food insecurity, and significant psychological distress, often necessitating temporary migration. Yet, communities demonstrate extraordinary positive adaptation, heightened vigilance, strong social cohesion, and continuous learning to mitigate future risks. However, the current disaster management system faces substantial operational weaknesses, characterized by inconsistent government aid, leadership gaps, resource deficiencies, and inequitable, delayed, or biased aid distribution exacerbated by logistical barriers. These systemic failures disproportionately burden marginalized communities, forcing reliance on their limited internal capacities. The study concludes by advocating for an integrated, responsive, and locally sensitive disaster management practice. Recommendations emphasize officially incorporating traditional knowledge and mutual aid structures, providing holistic and long-term recovery support (including mental health and livelihood diversification), strengthening governance, accountability, and aid distribution, and investing in resilient infrastructure to bridge isolation. This approach seeks to genuinely build upon community resilience while addressing critical systemic vulnerabilities, moving towards a proactive, cooperative, and effective disaster management paradigm.