Disaster risk reduction and management: A case of a Coastal Municipality in Iloilo Province

Abstract

This qualitative case study investigates the disaster risk reduction and management(DRRM) strategies of Barotac Viejo, a coastal municipality in Iloilo Province, focusing on the high-risk community of Brgy. Santiago. Using purposive sampling, 16 participants were selected: 10 residents of Barangay Santiago, 3 Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management officials, and 3 Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management officials. The study addresses five key questions: (1) How is the DRRM plan implemented in the municipality? (2) What support and resources are available for DRRM implementation? (3) What challenges are encountered in disaster preparedness?(4) What factors promote DRRM in the local government unit? (5) What recommendations do participants offer to improve DRRM? Findings are organized into15 themes: (1) Localized Risk Assessment and Planning, (2) Enhancing Centralized Municipal DRRM Policy Integration, (3) Integrating Livelihood Resilience and Mitigation Strategies, (4) Fostering Proactive Disaster Risk Reduction, (5) Targeted Improvements in Capacity and Infrastructure, (6) Strengthening Disaster Resilience through Coordinated Governance, (7) Local and External Assets for DRRM Implementation, (8)Navigating Community and Environmental Barriers, (9) Policy Integration and Community Capacity Building, (10) Strategic Resource Enhancement, (11) Integrated Planning and Execution, (12) Collaborative Resource Mobilization, (13) Logistical and Resource Constraints, (14) Cultivating Community Engagement, and (15) Upgrading Evacuation Facilities and Streamlining Policy Guidelines. The study highlights strengths such as localized planning and community engagement, while addressing challenges like outdated hazard maps, limited awareness, and resource shortages.