Building Disaster Resilient Schools through Local Capacity Development and Disaster Education Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The Municipality of Rosario is one of the top three cities and municipalities in CALABARZON with highest risk and vulnerability to disaster and hazard and it is one of the most affected areas due to its geographical location. A challenge usually encountered by local government unit and schools is delivering effective services. Some fail to do so because of the weak capacity of its disaster risk reduction management (DRMM) officials and staff. Thus, the purpose of this study is to determine the causes for the weak capacity in the DRMM and the problems and challenges in DRRM of the most vulnerable schools in Rosario, Cavite. This will serve as a capacity assessment to build disaster resilient schools.

METHODS

This study used Qualitative method utilizing interview adapted from UNDP Capacity Assessment Tool (2008). Schools-participants in this study were selected using purposive sampling based on the vulnerability report of the local DRRM which classified them as the top vulnerable schools in the said municipality.

RESULTS

Results revealed the different problems and challenges, in terms of institutional arrangements, leadership, knowledge, and accountability, were encountered by the schools in delivering effective DRRM. These include the (1) lack of technical knowledge regarding the geohazards among students, teachers and barangay officials, (2) lack of access or scattered information, (3) hazardous buildings and facilities,(4) zero availability of School Hazard Assessment map, (5) lack of preparedness to human-induced hazard, (6) most of the drills conducted by the school and MDRRMO limited to fire and earthquake, and (7) lack of orientation to Top-Down and Bottom-up approach among students and teachers.

DISCUSSIONS

Natural disaster's impact has led to adversity, with the physical impact majorly involved loss or damage to properties and infrastructure among schools. Reducing the risk and impact of the disaster, therefore, requires various efforts to prepare and empower the school community. Furthermore, a well-informed school community with a high level of awareness and sound knowledge on disaster preparedness and mitigation played a crucial role in preventing the greater incident of socio-economic loss to the school. Therefore, building resilient schools become part of DRRM initiatives.