School Earthquake Preparedness Program in Public Elementary Schools in the District of Cabuyao: A Basis for an Operation Manual

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The Philippines is located near the Pacific ring of fire where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. The Philippines experienced numerous seismic events. Tectonic plate moves once ina while, moving the crust that results to earthquakes. Preparedness on the countries surrounding the Pacific ring of Fire is observed. In the Philippines, the national government ensures the preparedness of their people through the continuous implementation of projects and activities to assure the safety of everyone especially the youth and the public schools. (Rosenberg, 2017)

METHODS

This study aimed to determine the preparedness level of public elementary schools to an earthquake in the District of Cabuyao for the school year 2016-2017. This study utilized the descriptive method of research. The data gathering was done through the distribution of the questionnaire. In determining the assessment of the four groups of respondents in the earthquake preparedness of public elementary schools, the proponent of the study used the frequency and percentage distribution.

RESULTS

The results show that both pupils and teachers need more knowledge on earthquake response. Meanwhile, the property custodian and DRRM coordinators have knowledge on the response but still need more knowledge to ensure the safety of all the pupils and school personnel. As to the level of earthquake preparedness of four groups of respondents, result show that the respondents got good level of preparedness. It can be summed up that all the schools are doing their part to improve the earthquake preparedness of their school personnel and most especially their pupils.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the findings of the study the following recommendations are drawn: 1. The pupils need to be introduced thoroughly on the preparedness program. 2. Teachers need to integrate more DRRM topics to their daily lesson. 3. Schools can create a School Disaster Management Committee (SDMC). 4. Property Custodian and DRRM Coordinators can work hand in hand in systematic implementation of earthquake preparedness program. 5. School Property Custodian needs to design a yearly assessment of school equipment. 6. The school can create a sustainable emergency preparedness evaluation and contingency plan and full implementation with the help of their School Disaster Management Committee.