Typhoon Haiyan was the strongest tropical cyclone to have ever hit land and provides an opportunity to analyse the application of emergency management principles in disaster response. In this case study, the author seeks to objectively assess the Philippine government’s response before, during and after Typhoon Haiyan according to these principles. The study refers to the Philippine legislative and institutional framework as well as the government’s overall response in relation to these principles. This study hopes to provide a resource for emergency management professionals, especially in the public administration and defence sector, in dealing with similar disasters and adopting potentially life-saving interventions.