ABSTRACT
Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions demand highly effective disaster response measures. This study evaluates the Disaster Response Program’s implementation in Albay's 2nd District, where frequent eruptions from Mount Mayon challenge emergency preparedness. Focusing on critical intervention areas—health, law enforcement, camp coordination, water and sanitation, psychosocial support, community engagement, and logistical readiness—the study combines qualitative document analysis and quantitative survey methods to assess the program’s overall impact and areas for enhancement. Data were collected from 581 participants, including emergency responders, local officials, and affected community members, to capture a broad perspective on the program’s effectiveness. Results reveal that while the program is “Implemented” across intervention areas, effectiveness varies. Health, psychosocial, and inter-agency communication efforts performed well, with notable strengths in medical and psychological support within evacuation centers. However, limitations in logistical support, such as shelter availability and transport resources, reduced response efficiency. The findings underscore the need for improved resource allocation, enhanced logistical frameworks, and regular community training exercises. This study offers an Early Response Action Plan to strengthen disaster response capabilities, promoting a more resilient system that better safeguards communities in high-risk volcanic zones.
Keywords: Disaster response program, implementation, early action plan, volcanic eruption
INTRODUCTION
Throughout history, disasters have emerged from the intricate interactions among humans, the environment, technology, and other organisms. These events can manifest suddenly or gradually, impacting daily life in myriad ways. Human innovation has spurred efforts to mitigate disaster effects, yet responses have typically been reactive rather than proactive. Communities, cognizant of potential risks, engage in preparedness measures and enact pre-planned strategies when facing imminent catastrophic events. However, societal progress has also amplified vulnerability, complicating efforts to manage and mitigate disaster impacts.
Disasters pose obstacles to human advancement and are closely intertwined with a community's developmental stage. The level of disaster risk in a community is intimately connected to its developmental decisions. Extensive research has illuminated the interplay between disasters and development, with examples such as floods damaging infrastructure and earthquake-resistant building techniques influencing risk levels. Unfortunately, the Philippines grapples with significant annual losses due to disasters, impeding progress and leaving communities exposed.
Global efforts in monitoring and assessing volcanic eruptions have been extensive, given the presence of approximately 1,500 active volcanoes across 86 nations. Yet, research on responsive measures for communities in volcanic regions remains inadequate. Studies have explored various aspects, including fatalities, community vulnerability, and risk assessment frameworks. However, there remains a critical need to consider community responses within the context of beliefs, cultural disparities, and governance modes.
In the Philippine context, research has focused on disaster readiness, particularly concerning volcanic eruptions like the Taal volcano. However, challenges persist in establishing causal linkages and interpreting findings, necessitating innovative approaches like hybrid modeling techniques. Given the persistent activity of volcanoes like Taal and Mount Bulusan, there's an urgent need for sustainable risk reduction strategies, especially in heavily populated areas like Albay's 2nd District. This evaluation aligns with both national legislation and international frameworks aimed at reducing disaster risks and increasing resilience.
This study aims to comprehensively assess disaster response programs in Albay's 2nd District, focusing on sustainable risk reduction strategies for potential Mayon Volcano eruptions. Objectives include evaluating current status, analyzing risks, assessing effectiveness, and proposing solutions to enhance resilience. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance community safety and well-being by implementing effective disaster management measures, considering the significant threat posed by the Mayon Volcano.
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