ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 59

Table
Profile of the Respondents in terms
of Personal Related Factors

BDRRMC Household Heads

Personal Factors
f % f %
 Sex
Male 31 78.00 27 30.00
Female 9 22.00 63 70.00
TOTAL 40 100.00 90 100.00
 Age
For BDRRMC
27-36 4 10.00 - -
37-46 16 40.00 - -
47-56 12 30.00 - -
57-66 4 10.00 - -
67076 4 10.00 - -
TOTAL 40 100.00 - -
For Household Heads
17-29 - - 12 13.00
30-42 - - 37 42.00
43-55 - - 27 30.00
56-68 - - 12 13.00
69-81 - - 2 2.00
TOTAL - - 90 100.00
 Civil Status
Single 6 15.00 6 6.00
Married 32 80.00 72 80.00
Separated - - 6 7.00
Widowed 2 5.00 6 7.00
TOTAL 40 100.00 90 100.00
 Place of Living
Rural 32 80.00 70 78.00
Remote 8 20.00 20 22.00
TOTAL 40 100.00 90 100.00
 Educational
Background
College Graduate 9 22.00 30 33.00
College Undergraduate 9 22.00 9 10.00
High School Graduate 9 22.00 27 30.00
High School
Undergraduate
6 15.00 5 6.00
Elementary Graduate 3 9.00 8 20.00
Elementary Undergraduate 4 10.00 1 1.00
TOTAL 40 100.00 90 100.00
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 60

On Age. As reflected in the table, some (16 or 40%) of the BDRRMC

respondents belong to the age bracket of 37-46 while four (10%) belong to the age

bracket of 27-36, 57-66 and 67-76, respectively. On the other hand, some 37 (42%)

of the household head-respondents are within the age bracket of 30-42 and two (2%)

fall under the extreme bracket of 69-81.

On Civil Status. Most (32 or 80%) of the BDRRMC respondents are

married while two (5%) are widowed. Likewise, most 72 (80%) are married while

six (6%) are single, separated and widowed, respectively among the household-head

respondents.

On Place of Living. Based on the table, most (32 or 80%) of the BDRRMC

respondents live in rural area while eight (20%) reside in remote area. Similarly,

majority (70 or 78%) of the household head-respondents live in rural area and 20

(22%) reside in remote area.

On Educational Background. A great percentage (9 or 22%) of the

BDRRMC respondents are college graduate, college undergraduate and high school

graduate while three (9%) are elementary graduate. Meanwhile, some 30 (33%) of

the household head-respondents are college graduate and only one (1%) is

elementary undergraduate.

On Training Program Attended. It can be noted from the table that most

(38 or 95%) of the BDRRMC respondents attended seminar while two (5%)

attended conference. Likewise, most 75 (83%) of the household head-respondents

attended seminar and fifteen (17%) attended conference.

Table 2 continued…
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 61

 Training Program
Attended
Conference 2 5.00 15 17.00
Seminar 38 95.00 75 83.00
TOTAL 40 100.00 90 100.00
 Position in the
Community
Barangay Captain 5 12.00 - -
Barangay Kagawad 18 46.00 - -
Barangay Secretary 4 10.00 - -
Barangay Treasurer 5 12.00 - -
Barangay Chief Tanod 4 10.00 - -
Barangay Tanod 4 10.00 - -
Resident - - 90 100.00
TOTAL 40 100.00 90 100.00

On Position in the Community. Some (18 or 45%) of the BDRRMC

respondents are Barangay Kagawad while four (10%) are Barangay Secretary,

Barangay Chief Tanod and Barangay Tanod. On the part of household head-

respondents, all (90 or 100%) are residents.

Problem 2. What is the level of disaster preparedness of the Barangay

Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee (BDRRMC) and

household head-respondents in disaster risk reduction in terms of:

a. Community Risk Assessment,

b. Contingency Planning ,

c. Communication System, and

d. Capacity-Building?

a. Community Risk Assessment

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 62

The level of disaster preparedness of the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction

Management Council (BDRRMC) and household head-respondents along

community risk assessment is presented in Table 3.

Table 3
Level of Disaster Preparedness among BDRRMC and Household Head
along Community Risk Assessment

Household
BDRRMC As a Whole
Items Head
DR DR DR
1. Determine the risk,
hazard and vulnerability 3.95 O 3.56 O 3.76 H
in your barangay.
2. Assess the risk, hazards
and vulnerabilities
3.98 O 3.78 O 3.88 H
capacities in your
barangay.
3. Availability of risk map
3.95 O 4.16 O 4.06 H
in your barangay hall.
4. Discuss your community
3.73 O 3.79 O 3.76 H
risk map to your locals.
5. Identify ways to reduce
3.78 O 3.09 So 3.44 H
those risks in your map.
Composite Mean 3.88 H 3.68 H 3.78 H
Legend:
Mean Rating Item Descriptive Rating Overall Descriptive rating
4.21-5.20 Always (A) Very High (VH)
3.41-4.20 Often (O) High (H)
2.61-3.40 Sometimes (So) Fair (F)
1.81-2.60 Seldom (Se) Low (L)
1.00-1.80 Never (N) Very Low (VL)

It is noted in the table that the overall mean rating of the respondents along

community risk assessment is 3.78, interpreted as ‘High”. When taken singly, the

BDRRMC respondents increased community risk assessment items by an overall

mean of 3.88 while the household head-respondents got an overall mean rating of

3.68. Both mean ratings are interpreted as “High”. This means that they are having
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 63

high level of perception in giving emphasis on identifying and listing the hazards,

risks and vulnerabilities of their barangay through their hazard risk map. However,

the BDRRMC aren’t discussing nor giving ways to reduce this hazards.

The group of BDRRMC respondents rated item number 2, “Assess the risk,

hazards and vulnerabilities capacities in the barangay” with the highest mean rating

of 3.98. Meanwhile, they assessed item number 4, “Discuss the community risk map

to your locals” got the lowest mean rating of 3.78. Though, both mean ratings are

described at an “Often” level. This implies that the assessed risks, hazards and

vulnerabilities are not deliberated to their locals which they must knew it also.

On the group of household head-respondents, they rated item number 3,

”Availability of risk map in your barangay hall” with the highest mean rating of

4.16, which is described as “Often” while item number 5, “Identify ways to reduce

those risks in your map” obtained the lowest with a mean rating of 3.09, interpreted

as “Sometimes”. This explains that the hazard risks map of their barangay doesn’t

have reducing plans to avoid it.

This conform in the study of Peters (2009) reveals that public awareness or

the processes of informing the general population, increasing levels of

consciousness about risks and how people can act to reduce their exposure to

hazards is a vital process in DRR and environment management. This is particularly

important for public.

In relation to this findings, Pornasdoro (2014) concluded that the barangays

can be at high and very high flood risks in the near future and in a relatively more

distant future, and has implications to the disaster risk mitigation/reduction policies

of LGUs. And, the city government can give priority interventions and determine
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 64

some not too expensive flood mitigation strategies that can support the concerned

barangays.

b. 1 Contingency Plan

Table 4 shows the level of disaster preparedness among Barangay Disaster

Risk Reduction Management Council (BDRRMC) along contingency plan.

It is noted in the table that the overall mean rating of 4.19 was found. This is

an indication that the respondents in the municipality of Caoayan have “High” level

of disaster preparedness along contingency plan.

On the BDRRMC, they rated item number 4, “Coordinate the allocation of

relief goods for preposition to evacuation centers and/or to affected households”

with the highest mean rating of 4.45 described as “Always”. While, item number 8,

“Prepare evacuation plans” gained the lowest mean rating of 3.88 described as

“Often” level. This explains that they focused more in the allocation of relief goods

and medicines needed rather than improving their evacuation plan for their locals.

This conforms in the study of Espina (2013) that the developed Resource

Allocation Prioritization System (RAPS) has increased productivity within the local

government unit in terms of relief management. Since the municipality’s current

processes for relief management are done manually, there are usually cases of

discrepancies in relief goods accountability, delivery, allocation and prioritization of

high risk areas. Some issues regarding the present system is that conflicts may arise

between barangays with regards to the demand and allocation of the relief goods.

Table 4
Level of Disaster Preparedness of BDRRMC
along Contingency Plan
Items BDRRM
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 65

C
DR
1. Assist in analyzing situations, formulate and implement plans
4.23 A
necessary for disaster preparedness and disaster operation.
2. Coordinate the issuance of proper warning and alert messages
4.15 O
to concerned authorities on the existing/ impending disaster.
3. Coordinate with the proper authorities for the public use of pre-
4.13 O
designated centers during disaster.
4. Coordinate the allocation of relief goods and medical
requirements for preposition to evacuation centers and/or to 4.45 A
affected households.
5. Coordinate with MDRRMC on the effective disaster
4.23 A
preparedness and management program.
6. Make recommendations on how prevent disaster if possible
and/or suggest precautionary measures to minimize the effects 3.93 O
disaster.
7. Prepare appropriate recommendations to Sangguniang Bayan
for possible declaration of the existence of a state of calamity
4.00 O
of the barangay. The recommendations shall serve as the basis
for the release of 5% calamity fund.
8. Prepare evacuation plans. 3.88 O
9. Availability of officer-in-charge of the procurement and
provision of necessary relief goods/supplies in support to 4.38 A
disaster related operations.
10. Coordinate with other relief agencies and LGO’s concerned for
possible augmentation of needed relief supplies (Food and 4.35 A
Non-food Items) for disaster relief operations.
11. Assist in the conduct of rescue and recovery operations to the
4.40 A
disaster stricken areas.
12. Availability of Barangay Response and Rescue Teams. 4.18 O
13. Preposition/Stockpile of medicines/medical supplies at the
4.18 O
Barangay Health Center.
14. Maintain health and sanitation in the affected areas and
4.13 O
evacuation centers.
15. Prepare list of disaster victims for the use of the operating
4.30 A
teams during rehabilitations phase in coordination with DSWD.
Composite Mean 4.19 H
Furthermore, Viloria (n.d) reveals in the aftermath, barangay government

officials have helped in the distribution of the relief goods and have coordinated

with the city and national governments, the NGOs, and other private sector groups

regarding their barangay long term rehabilitation.

b. 2 Contingency Plan
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 66

Table 5 presents the level of disaster preparedness of the household head-

respondents along contingency plan is “High” as suggested by an overall mean of

4.09

Table 5
Level of Disaster Preparedness of Household Head
along Contingency Plan

BDRRMC
Items
DR
1. I make sure that our house is protected by strong
4.30 A
winds & rains.
2. I stock food, supplies, and medicines before the
3.92 O
typhoon comes.
3. I prepare a first aid kit. 3.34 So
4. I prepare the emergency lights. 3.94 O
5. I secure the important documents in a plastic
4.36 A
envelope.
6. I check & recharge phone and radio for the update
4.46 A
of the typhoon.
7. I keep a list of important contact numbers. 3.86 O
8. I stay tune in the latest weather reports of the
4.30 A
typhoon.
9. I plan & discuss the evacuation route to my family. 3.88 O
10. I secure that all the family members are safe. 4.49 A
Composite Mean 4.09 H

The respondents claimed that “I secure that all the family members are safe”

garnering the highest mean rating of 4.49 interpreted as “Always”. While, the

respondents believe that “I prepare a first aid kit” gained the lowest mean rating

3.34 interpreted as “Sometimes”. This explains that the household head only

securing the safety of his/her member, thus, he/she is not securing the health

wellness of each of its members.

A research findings stated by Chan (2016) that about half (49.6%) of the

respondents perceived Hong Kong having a lower level of disaster preparedness

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 67

compared to other metropolitan cities. They surveyed six (6) household stock-piling

items that are of importance in disaster preparedness: first aid kit, basic aids

supplies, storage of food and water, basic medications, long-term medication and

fire-extinguishers.

Thus, this lead by Chan (2016) concluding that focus on strengthening

household disaster preparedness, and enhancing disaster health risk literacy in the

general public. High level disaster-related mitigation knowledge within the

community is an essential asset in the development of preparedness enhancement

programs.

c. Communication System

Table 6 presents the level of disaster preparedness of the BDRRMC and

household head-respondents along communication system.

As depicted in the table, the overall mean rating of the respondents in the

area of communication system is 3.75 described as “High”. Taken singly, the

BDRRMC respondents appraised communication system items by a mean rating of

3.84, which is slightly lower than the household head-respondents with a mean

rating of 3.63. Both mean ratings were at a “High” level. This explains that they

have high level of coordination with higher authorities on existing disaster threat in

the province. However, they contradict in the BDRRMC uses megaphones to

deliver updates for the disaster and the household head-respondents in providing the

emergency hotlines to their locals. Thus, this means that the BDRRMC doesn’t

execute this activity to their barangay.

Table 6
Level of Disaster Preparedness among BDRRMC and Household Head
along Communication System
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 68

Household As a
BDRRMC
Items Head Whole
DR DR DR
1. Practice the house-to-house
warning before a typhoon 3.93 O 3.67 O 3.85 H
comes.
2. Use megaphones to deliver
updates of the upcoming 3.58 O 4.02 O 3.80 H
typhoon.
3. Practice your early warning
3.65 O 3.86 O 3.76 H
signal in your barangay.
4. Coordinate with higher
authority on the existing
4.05 O 4.20 O 4.13 H
and/or impending disaster
threat in the province.
5. Provide emergency hotlines
4.00 O 2.42 Se 3.21 So
to your people to call into.
Composite Mean 3.84 H 3.63 H 3.75 H

With regard to the BDRRMC, they rated item number 4, “Coordinate with

higher authority on the existing and/or impending disaster threat in the province”

with the highest mean rating of 4.05. This is interpreted as “Often”. Meanwhile,

item number 2, “Use megaphones to deliver updates of the upcoming typhoon”

obtained the lowest mean rating of 3.58. This is rated on the level of “Often”. This

implies that the BDRRMC have insufficient communication materials to incorporate

information to their respective residents along communication system.

Meanwhile, on the part of household head-respondents they rated item

number 4, “Coordinate with higher authority on the existing and/or impending

disaster threat in the province” tend to be the highest with mean rating of 4.20. This

is interpreted as “High” level. On the other hand, item number 5, “Provide

emergency hotlines to your people to call into” got the lowest mean ratings of 2.42

which is described as “High”. This explains that the respondents cooperate in the
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 69

actions of higher authorities in their typhoon preparedness but some of them don’t

give emphasis in saving the emergency hotlines to their own cellphones.

This conforms in the study of Rogers and Tsirkunov (n.d) warnings must

reach those at risk. Clear messages containing simple, useful information are critical

to enable proper responses that will help safeguard lives and livelihoods. Regional,

national and community level communication systems must be pre-identified and

appropriate authoritative voices established. The use of multiple communication

channels is necessary to ensure as many people as possible are warned, to avoid

failure of any one channel, and to reinforce the warning message.

In relation, the study of Peters (2009) stated that the public awareness

activities foster changes in behaviour leading towards a culture of risk reduction.

This involves information, dissemination, education, radio or television broadcasts,

use of printed media, as well as, the establishment of information centres, networks

and community participation actions. The overall objective of the communication

strategy is to widely disseminate information on disasters and risk reduction and its

likely effects, in order to save lives and livelihoods. The increase in the intensity of

natural disasters requires continued and more intensive efforts in information

dissemination at local, national and regional levels.

d. Capacity-Building

Table 7 shows the level of disaster preparedness among BDRRMC and

household head-respondents along capacity-building.

Table 7
Level of Disaster Preparedness among BDRRMC and Household Head
along Capacity-Building

Items BDRRMC Household As a

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 70

Head whole
DR DR DR
1. Check the households’
preparedness of your 4.20 O 4.01 O 4.11 H
barangays.
2. Check & clean the drainage
3.95 O 3.46 O 3.71 H
system in your barangay.
3. Conduct training program in
securing the house and 3.78 O 3.06 So 3.42 H
appliances.
4. Availability of barangay
4.38 A 3.90 O 4.14 H
funds.
5. Provide an elevated and
secure evacuation area. 4.18 O 3.49 O 3.84 H
Composite Mean 4.10 H 3.58 H 3.84 H

As revealed in the table, the overall mean rating of the respondents in the

area of the capacity-building is 3.84 and is described as “High” level. When taken

singly, the BDRRMC respondents increased capacity-building items by a mean

rating of 4.10, described as “High”. Though, on the part of the household head-

respondents increased capacity-building by the mean rating of 3.58, interpreted as

“High”. This means that they are high level in having barangays funds, though, the

household-head respondents are giving more emphasis in checking the household’s

preparedness. However, they disregarded the conduct of training program in

securing the house and appliances.

The BDRRMC of the coastal barangays assessed item number 4,

“Availability of barangay funds” were rated “Always” with the highest mean rating

of 4.38. Further, item number 3, “Conduct training program in securing the house

and appliances” were appraised “Often” having the lowest mean rating of 3.78. This

explains that the BDRRMC capacity-building have sufficient fund to acquire

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 71

training and seminar to their households to lessen the damage residents in case

typhoon come again.

On the other hand, the household head-respondents tend to perceive item

number 1, “Check the households’ preparedness of your barangays” with the mean

rating of 4.01, described as “Often” while item number 3, “Conduct training

program in securing the house and appliances” was rated the lowest with the mean

rating of 3.06 interpreted as “Sometimes”. This means that the respondents checks

their preparedness even without the proper training attended in securing the house

and appliances.

This conforms in the study of Jurilla (2016) that availability of funds for

disaster risk reduction preparedness program of municipalities was limited only on

relief goods for the evacuees. Very minimal amount was spent for other

preparedness activities and needs like information education, evacuation drills on

barangays, equipment’s and facilities for emergencies and for evacuation centers.

As well as proper monitoring, evaluation and reporting of disaster preparedness

resource utilization and operation and distribution of disaster assistance to

beneficiaries was not conducted that is why a lot of conflict happened in terms of

utilization of donations and emergency assistance for victim families.

Problem 3. What are the coping mechanisms of the Barangay Disaster

Risk Reduction Management Council (BDRRMC) and Household Head-

respondents in terms of disaster risk reduction:

a. quarterly drills,

b. operational plan,

c. functional communication, and

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 72

d. durability of materials/equipment?

a. Quarterly Drills

The coping mechanisms of the barangay disaster risk reduction management

council (BDRRMC) and household head-respondents along quarterly drills is

presented in Table 8.

As transpired in the table, the respondents evaluated quarterly drills with an

overall mean rating 3.57 and are interpreted as “High”. However, when taken

singly, the BDRRMC garnered an highest overall mean rating of 3.93, described as

”High” whereas on the household head-respondents tend to have the lowest mean

rating of 3.21, interpreted as “Fair”. This reveals that it is highly implemented by

the BDRRMC where the household head-respondents are assess in their level of

disaster preparedness. Though, they disregarded the presentation of necessary

equipment that might be used in case of emergency.

Table 8
Coping Mechanisms among BDRRMC and Household Head
along Quarterly Drills

Household
BDRRMC As a Whole
Items Head
DR DR DR
1. The BDRRMC conducts
training programs and
seminars to educate the 4.15 H 3.22 M 3.69 H
locals for the upcoming
tropical cyclones.
2. The BDRRMC conducts
quarterly drills in the
3.83 H 3.30 M 3.57 H
barangay to assess the level
of preparedness of the locals.
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 73

3. The BDRRMC presents

necessary equipment that 3.80 H 3.10 M 3.45 H
might use by the locals.
Composite Mean 3.93 H 3.21 F 3.57 H
Legend:
Mean Rating Item Descriptive Rating Overall Descriptive rating
4.21-5.20 Very High (VH) Very High (VH)
3.41-4.20 High (H) High (H)
2.61-3.40 Moderate (M) Fair (F)
1.81-2.60 Fair (F) Low (L)
1.00-1.80 Poor (P) Very Low (VL)

The BDRRMC evaluated “The BDRRMC conducts training programs and

seminars to educate the locals for the upcoming tropical cyclones” the highest mean

rating of 4.15, interpreted as “High”, while “The BDRRMC presents necessary

equipment that might use by the locals”, described as “High”. Hence, this results

that they are only showcasing the proper action but they aren’t giving emphasis in

the equipment that might be used.

On the part of household head-respondents, they gave item number 2, “The

BDRRMC conducts quarterly drills in the barangay to assess the level of disaster

preparedness of the locals” the highest mean rating of 3.30 while they gave item

number 3, “The BDRRMC presents necessary equipment that might use by the

locals” the lowest mean rating of 3.10. However, both mean rating is still at a

“Moderate” level.

Looking into the study of Hosseini (2013) suggested the expansion of

training in the field of relief and rescue to all sectors, increasing people’s

preparedness level against natural disasters, providing rules and regulations for

crisis management to determine the status of people’s participation for their more

preparedness against natural disasters, attention to the lower strata of society in

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 74

order to study whether the accepted programs are consistent with their specific

needs, and increasing the confidence to the emergency plans and adapting with the

programs.

Therefore, Jurilla (2016) recommended that evacuation drills and simulation

activities and other disaster trainings must be conducted not only among offices and

schools but also among households in hazard prone barangays of every

municipality.

b. Operational Plan

As part of the coping mechanisms, operational plan of the BDRRMC and

household head-respondents is shown in Table 9.

The table reveals that the overall assessment of the respondents along

operational plan is 3.99, interpreted as “High”. When taken singly, the household

head-respondents have increased overall mean rating of 4.06 then the BDRRMC

which have 3.91. Though, they are both interpreted as “High” level. This can results

have high implementation of evacuation plan ready for the future evacuees.

However, they disregarded the checking of stored food and medicines for the future

evacuees.

Table 9
Coping Mechanisms among BDRRMC and Household Head
along Operational Plan

Household
BDRRMC As a Whole
Items Head
DR DR DR
1. The BDRRMC plan and ready
the evacuation area for the 4.05 H 4.27 VH 4.16 H
evacuees ahead of time.
2. The BDRRMC conducts a 3.93 H 4.18 H 4.06 H
meeting to all head of the
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 75

family discussing the updates of

their barangay contingency
plan.
3. The BDRRMC checks if there
is enough food and medicines 3.75 H 3.72 H 3.74 H
available for the evacuees.
Composite Mean 3.91 H 4.06 O 3.99 H

The group of BDRRMC gave item number 1, “The BDRRMC plan and

ready the evacuation area for the evacuees ahead of time” a mean rating of 4.05

described as “High”. They gave item number 3, “The BDRRMC checks if there is

enough food and medicines available for the evacuees” the lowest mean of 3.75

described to be at “High” level. This implies that the respondents has high level of

coping mechanisms in their operational plan yet, they don’t gave emphasis in

checking the supplies of their barangay for their future evacuees.

Similarly, the household head-respondents “High” impression on item

number 1, “The BDRRMC plan and ready the evacuation area for the evacuees

ahead of time” as backed up by the highest mean rating of 4.27, whereas they gave

item number 3, “The BDRRMC checks if there is enough food and medicines

available for the evacuees” the lowest mean rating of 3.72 described as “High”.

This conforms to the study of Bagarinao (n.d) that preparing a 3-day disaster

emergency supplies and kit is relatively not common among the respondents. This

could be due to the fact that most of the respondents are below the poverty threshold

of the study, and hence, their capacity to buy these supplies is limited.

This is contrary to the Hyogo Framework for Action (2005) that during relief

phase, there should be a need assessment of survivors and based upon that

immediate relief like food, clothing and shelter must be provided.

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 76

c. Functional Communication

Table 10 presents the summary table of the mean ratings of the BDRRMC

and household head-respondents coping mechanisms along functional

communication.

As reflected in the table, the BDDRMC and household head-respondents

obtained an overall mean rating of 4.00 which is described as “High”. Though,

when taken singly, the BDRRMC respondents tend to have an overall mean rating

of 4.15, interpreted as “High”, while the household head-respondents garnered an

overall mean rating of 3.85, described as “High”. This is an indication that the

respondents high implementation by the BDRRMC having active phone

communication, yet the household head-respondents doesn’t aware of its

availability. On the contrary, the household head-respondents are aware of the

BDRRMC updating the MDRRMC, yet, the BDRRMC doesn’t give emphasis in

alerting the locals through their early warning signal.

Table 10
Coping Mechanisms among BDRRMC and Household Head
along Functional Communication

Household
BDRRMC As a Whole
Items Head
DR DR DR
1. The BDRRMC has an active
phone/telephone equipment
used for immediate 4.18 H 3.02 M 3.60 H
communication to the
emergency hotlines.
2. The BDRRMC updates the
MDRRMC (Municipal
Disaster Risk Reduction
4.15 H 4.56 VH 4.36 VH
Management Council) on
what is happening in the
barangay from time to time.
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 77

3. The BDRRMC alerts the

locals through the early
4.13 H 3.96 H 4.05 H
warning system of the
barangay.
Composite Mean 4.15 H 3.85 H 4.00 H

The BDRRMC respondents gave item number 1, “The BDRRMC has an

active phone/telephone equipment used for immediate communication to the

emergency hotlines”, interpreted as “High”. On the other hand item number 3, “The

BDRRMC alerts the locals through the early warning system of the barangay”

garnered the lowest mean rating of 4.13, described as “High”. This explains that the

BDRRMC have a necessary equipment used to inform and alert their households

however they aren’t using this frequently.

On the part of household head-respondents, they rated item number 2, “The

BDRRMC updates the MDRRMC (Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction

Management Council) on what is happening in the barangay from time to time” the

highest mean rating of 4.56, interpreted as “Very High”. While, they rated item

number 1, “The BDRRMC have an active phone/telephone equipment used for

immediate communication to the emergency hotlines” the lowest mean rating of

3.02, described as “Moderate”. This explains that the BDRRMC updates the locals

about the new communication system however they aren’t giving the emergency

hotlines to the locals to use in case of emergency.

A research study by Sawada (2012) stated natural disasters occur in

advanced and developing nations alike, but when a nation is democratized and has

better governance, the number of casualties is drastically reduced owing to disaster

risk information that is communicated and shared, early warning systems that are
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 78

developed, and infrastructure and other risk management mechanisms that are well

developed to prevent or mitigate the impact of disasters.

However, this in contrary to the study of Peters (2009) revealed that the

difficulties for mobilization arise as many roads and pathways are flooded. In

addition economic activities such as street vending, washing clothes and small ‘in

house’ shops and food stalls have to be totally or partially stopped. The interruption

of income-generating activities may represent up to a 30% cutback in the daily

revenue of many households, especially those settled in the lowest-lying areas.

d. Durability of Materials/Equipment

Table 11 reflects the coping mechanisms of the BDRRMC and household

head-respondents along durability of materials/equipment’s.

The table shows that the items mean rating of the BDRRMC and household

head-respondents is at “High” level with an overall mean rating of 4.07. When taken

singly, the overall mean rating of the household head-respondents acquire greater

rating of 4.33, described as “Very High” than the BDRRMC that garnered 3.81

overall mean rating which is interpreted as “High”. This explains that they have

high implantation by the BDRRMC in the inspection of transportation used, yet the

BDRRMC doesn’t aware of this inspection being done. On the other hand, the

household head-respondents are confident that the BDRRMC reviews the materials

used in the construction of the evacuation area, though, the BDRRMC doesn’t give

emphasis in doing this so.

Table 11
Coping Mechanisms among BDRRMC and Household Head
along Durability of Materials/Equipment’s
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 79

Household As a
BDRRMC
Items Head Whole
DR DR DR
1. The BDRRMC conducts
an inspection in the
3.78 H 4.31 VH 4.05 H
structure of houses in the
barangay.
2. The BDRRMC reviews
the materials used in the
construction of the 3.65 H 4.41 VH 4.03 H
designated evacuation
areas.
3. The BDRRMC inspects
the transportation used to
4.00 H 4.26 VH 4.13 H
evacuate the locals (i.e.
boats).
Composite Mean 3.81 H 4.33 VH 4.07 H

On the part of BDRRMC, they rated item number 3, “The BDRRMC

inspects the transportation used to evacuate the locals (i.e. boats)” obtained the

highest mean rating of 4.00, described as “High”. While item number 2, “The

BDRRMC reviews the materials used in the construction of the designated

evacuation areas” the lowest mean rating of 3.65, interpreted as “High”. This

implies that the BDRRMC secure first the transportation of the households when

they evacuate than reviewing the facility and materials used in their lot evacuation

area.

Meanwhile, the household head-respondents rated item number 2, “The

BDRRMC reviews the materials used in the construction of the designated

evacuation areas” tend to be the highest mean rating of 4.41, interpreted as “Very

High”. While item number 3, “The BDRRMC inspects the transportation used to

evacuate the locals (i.e. boats)” the lowest mean rating of 4.26, described as “Very
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 80

High”. This implies that the households are assured that the BDRRMC implements

this activities to their evacuation area and transportation.

This conforms to the study of Reganit (2005) suggested that community’s

good practices in flood preparedness should involve the coordination of the

households and the LGU. It is observed that the community’s responses to avoid the

negative effects of the floods include structural and non-structural measures.

Moreover, the findings of Peters (2009) revealed that regarding housing, for

instance, the long term strategies are specifically oriented to avoid contact of the

flood waters with the main structure. By preventing the damage of structural

elements such as walls, roofs and floors families try to avoid becoming homeless.

The preferred coping mechanisms to avoid exposure to flood therefore are to build

concrete houses, elevate the terrain or build houses on elevated stilts.

Problem 4. Is there a significant relationship between the profile of the

respondents and level of disaster preparedness in disaster risk reduction?

Relationship between the Profile of the Respondents and Level of Disaster

Preparedness in Disaster Risk Reduction

Table 12 summarizes the personal related-factors which are correlated with

the level of disaster preparedness of the BDRRMC in the coastal barangays of

Caoayan.

Table 12
Correlation Coefficients between the Profile of the BDRRMC in the
Level of Disaster Preparedness

Personal Community
Contingency Communicatio Capacity-
Profile Risk
Plan n System Building
Assessment
Sex -.081 .016 -.104 .137
Age -.032 .129 -.045 -.095
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 81

Civil Status .169 .159 .094 -.102

Place of
.169 .159 .094 .283
Living
Educational
Backgroun -.498** -.383* -.258 -.458**
d
Training
Program -.210 -.019 .219 -.080
Attended
Position in
the -.373* -.335* -.406** -.346*
Community
Legend:
*. Correlation is significant at the 0.05 level (2-tailed)
**. Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed)

The table reveals that as a whole, the personal related-factors of the

BDRRMC respondents are not significantly correlated with their level of disaster

preparedness. Taken singly; however, community risk assessment is significantly

correlated particularly with the educational background (rxy=-.498) and position in

the community (rxy=-.373). Similarly, the contingency plan is corelated with

educational background (rxy=-.383) and position in the community (rxy=-.335).

Likewise, the capacity-building is significantly correlated with educational

background (rxy=-.458) and position in the community (rxy=-.346).Moreover, the

communication system is correlated significantly with only the position in the

community (rxy=-.406) among the BDRRMC respondents. Hence, this explains that

the position of BDRRMC have a greater involvement in their educational

background in attaining the level of disaster preparedness

The study of Muttarak (2013) hypothesized that formal education can

promote disaster preparedness because education enhances individual cognitive and

learning skills, as well as access to information.

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 82

Hence, this resulted to that formal education, measured at the individual,

household, and community levels, has a positive relationship with taking

preparedness measures. The findings also show that disaster-related training is most

effective for individuals with high educational attainment. Furthermore, living in a

community with a higher proportion of women who have at least a secondary

education increases the likelihood of disaster preparedness. In conclusion, formal

education can increase disaster preparedness and reduce vulnerability to natural

hazards.

Another research study by Varona (2017) finds out that barangay officials

were knowledgeable about disaster risk reduction and management, they have a

positive attitude to this and almost all activities of this program have been practiced

by the barangay officials. Correspondingly, the findings of Taghizadeh, e al. (2012)

showed that a high correlation of educational attainment and disaster preparedness.

Nevertheless, these findings are contrary to the study of Viloria (n.d) that

reveals that most of the barangays are not prepared for the disaster due to lack of

budget, which apparently resulted to negligence and over-confidence; only one

barangay was able to implement its Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and

Management Plan (BDRRMP). The lack of proper information-based systems and

the ignorance of the residents have contributed to their unpreparedness.

Table 13 shows the personal related-factors which are correlated with the

level of disaster preparedness of the household head-respondents in the coastal

barangays of Caoayan.

Table 13
Correlation Coefficients between the Profile of the Household head
in the Level of Disaster Preparedness
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 83

Personal Profile Community

Contingency Communication Capacity-
Risk
Plan System Building
Assessment
Sex .023 .034 -.075 .145
Age -.069 -.244** -.079 -.115
Civil Status .007 -.101 -.214* -.146
Place of Living -.145 -.038 -.102 -.087
Educational **
-.087 -.190 -.056
Background -.285
Training Programs
.004 -.013 .166 .162
Attended
Position in the
.a .a .a .a
Community
Legend:
**. Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed)
*. Correlation is significant at the 0.05 level (2-tailed)
a. Cannot be computed because at least one of the variable is constant.

It is presented in the tale that, as a whole, the household head-respondents

personal related-factors do not correlate with their disaster preparedness. When

taken singly, on the contingency plan is found correlated with age (rxy=.244) and

educational background (rxy=.285). This means that the age of the household head-

respondents and the attained education affect the making of contingency plan of the

family.

On the part of communication system, the personal related-factors of the

household head-respondents is significantly correlated with only civil status

(rxy=.214). This explains that the respondents who have family couldn’t find time to

assess the communication system of their barangay.

On the part of age correlation to contingency plan, Najafi, et al. (2015) find

out that disaster preparedness was not affected by gender, educational level, and

number of household members, home type, home ownership and being the head of

household.
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 84

These findings are opposite to what Muttarak (2013) reiterated that the

greater the number of household members aged ≥ 60 years, the lower the likelihood

of preparation. Likewise, Ashenefe (2017) found out that age was positively

correlated with household flood preparedness. Previous studies suggested that older

household heads were more likely prepared based on their flood experience. This

might be due to the fact that older respondents had more basic supplies to survive

before and after a disaster as a result of previous knowledge about vulnerable area

(Kirschenbaum, 2004).

In relation, the study conducted by Tschakert (2017) revealed that children

and the elderly tend to be more vulnerable. They have less physical strength to

survive disasters and are often more susceptible to certain diseases. On the part of

educational background with the contingency plan, Muttarak (2013) explained that

for respondents with low educational attainment, the main factors influencing

disaster preparedness are the number of sources of information and some household

demographic characteristics, i.e., the number of the elderly and disabled member.

While, for individuals with higher education, it is evident that their likelihood of

taking preparedness actions increases with tsunami experience, participation in

evacuation drills, disaster education, and the number of sources of information

received.

On the part of civil status correlation with communication system, the odds

of taking preparedness actions for the divorced/separated/widowed and the married

are six and eight times greater than for single individuals. Although the number of

the elderly in household reduces the likelihood of preparation, the number of

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 85

disabled members increases the propensity to carry out preparedness activities

(Muttarak, 2013).
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 87

On the other hand, the households were included to validate the implementation of

disaster preparedness of the BDRRMC.

The descriptive survey method of research approach was employed, and the

following statistical tools were used in the analysis of data gathered: frequency,

percentage, mean, and Pearson rxy.

Findings

Based on the data generated and analyzed, the following are the salient

findings of the study:

1. On Personal-related Factors

On Sex. Majority of the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management

Council-respondents (31 or 78%) are male. On the part of household head-

respondents, majority 63 (70%) are female.

On Age. Some (16 or 40%) of the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction

Management Council-respondents belong to the age bracket of 37-46. On the part of

household head-respondents, some 37 (42%) belong to the age bracket of 30-42.

On Civil Status. Most (32 or 80%) of the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction

Management Council-respondents are married. On the part of household head-

respondents, most 72 (80%) are married.

On Place of Living. Most (32 or 80%) of the Barangay Disaster Risk

Reduction Management Council-respondents live in rural area. On the part of

household head-respondents, majority (70 or 78%) live in rural area.

On Educational Background. A great percentage (9 or 22%) of the

Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council-respondents is college

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 88

graduate, college undergraduate and high school graduate. On the part of household

head-respondents, some 30 (33%) are college graduate.

On Training Program Attended. Most (38 or 95%) of the Barangay Disaster

Risk Reduction Management Council-respondents attended seminar. On the part of

household head-respondents, most 75 (83%) attended seminar.

On Position in the Community. Some (18 or 45%) of the Barangay Disaster

Risk Reduction Management Council-respondents are Barangay Kagawad. On the

part of household head-respondents, all (90 or 100%) are residents.

2. Level of Disaster Preparedness

On Community Risk Assessment. The overall mean rating of the

respondents on community risk assessment is 3.78 and is interpreted as “High”.

On Contingency Plan. The overall mean rating of the Barangay Disaster

Risk Reduction Management Council-respondents on contingency plan is 4.19 and

household head-respondents is 4.09, respectively. Both of them are described as

“High”.

On Communication System. The overall mean rating of the respondents on

communication system is 3.75 and is interpreted as “High”.

On Capacity-Building. The overall mean rating of the respondents on

capacity-building is 3.84 and is described as “High”.

3. Coping Mechanisms

On Quarterly Drills. The overall mean rating of the respondents on quarterly

drills is 3.57 and is interpreted as “High”.

On Operational Plan. The overall mean rating of the respondents on

operational plan is 3.99 and is described as “High”.

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 89

On Functional Communication. The overall mean rating of the respondents

on functional communication is 4.00 and is interpreted as “High”.

On Durability of Materials/Equipment’s. The overall mean rating of the

respondents on durability of materials/equipment is 4.07 and is described as “High”.

4. Correlation Coefficient of the Personal Related Factors and Level of

Disaster Preparedness

4.1 Correlation Coefficient of the Personal Related Factors of the

BDRRMC and Level of Disaster Preparedness

On Community Risk Assessment. Community Risk Assessment is

significantly correlated particularly with educational background (r xy=-.498) and

position in the community (rxy=-.373).

On Contingency Plan. Contingency Plan is found to have significant

relationship with educational background (rxy=-.383) and position in the community

(rxy=-.335).

On Communication System. Communication system is correlated

significantly with only the position in the community (rxy=-.406).

On Capacity-Building. Capacity-building is significantly correlated with

educational background (rxy=-.458) and position in the community (rxy=-.346).

4.2 Correlation Coefficient of the Personal Related Factors of the

Household Head-respondents and Level of Disaster Preparedness

On Contingency Plan. Contingency plan is found correlated with age

(rxy=.244) and educational background (rxy=.285).

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 90

On Communication System. Communication system is significantly

correlated with only civil status (rxy=.214).

Conclusions

After cautious analysis and interpretation of data, the following conclusions

are hereby presented:

1. On personal-related factors, the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction

Management Council (BDRRMC) in five (5) coastal barangays of Caoayan are

dominated by males, some belong to age bracket 37-46, mostly married, lived in

rural area, a great percentage are college graduate, college undergraduate and high

school graduate, attending seminar and some are Barangay Kagawad.

On the other hand, the household head-respondents in five (5) coastal

barangays of Caoayan are dominated by female, belong to age bracket of 30-42,

mostly married, lived in rural area, some are college graduate, attending seminar

and all are residents.

2. The level of community risk assessment of the respondents were high in

giving great emphasis in identifying and listing their hazards, risks and

vulnerabilities, however, the preventions of these aren’t discussed to their locals.

3. The level of contingency plan of the respondents were high in assuring the

allocation of relief goods and safety of each member, though, both of them agreed in

having difficulties in the allocation of medicines needed.

4. The level of communication system of the respondents were high in

coordinating with higher authorities on existing disaster threat in the province,

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 91

however, they opposed by BDRRMC doesn’t used megaphones and household

heads not having emergency hotlines.

5. The level of capacity-building of the respondents were high in having

barangay funds and examination of household preparedness, though, they

disregarded the conduct of training program in securing the house and appliances.

6. The quarterly drills of the respondents were highly implemented by the

BDRRMC where the households are assess in their level of disaster preparedness,

however, they disregarded the presentation of necessary equipment that might be

used in case of emergency.

7. The operational plan of the respondents were highly implemented through

their early prepared evacuation plan, though, they disregarded the checking of

stored food and medicines for their evacuees.

8. The functional communication of the respondents was highly implemented

through active phone communication and awareness of households in updating the

MDRRMC, however, they contrary in the availability of active phone

communication and alerting the locals through their early warning signal.

9. The durability of materials/equipment’s were highly implemented through

inspection of transportation used and construction of evacuation area, though, they

opposed in awareness of inspection of the transportation and giving emphasis by

this action of the BDRRMC.

10. The BDRRMC characteristics such as educational background and position

in the community have significant relationship to community risk assessment,

contingency plan and capacity-building.

 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 92

On the other, the BDRRMC characteristic such as position in the community

has significant relationship to communication system.

11. The household-head respondent’s characteristics such as age and

educational background have significant relationship to contingency plan.

Meanwhile, the household head-respondents characteristic such as civil

status has significant relationship to communication system.

Recommendations

Based on the conclusion drawn, the following recommendations are

forwarded for consideration:

1. The BDRRMC must administer regular meetings for the purpose of updating

and discussing the members and residents of the hazards, risk and vulnerabilities of

their barangay especially that there location is at the coastal area. They are prone of

high vulnerability especially when typhoons come.

2. The BDRRMC should always update their plans regarding the upcoming

typhoons. Also, they must administer the allocation of medicines needed for their

future evacuees.

3. The BDRRMC must acquire communication materials such as megaphones

in informing the locals about the typhoon. And they must gave whistles to every

households to use as a communication tool.

4. The BDRRMC must have proper check-up/test on the capacity of the

buildings or any construction around barangay in order to the residents to know

how/what to do to reconstruct and manipulate things on their surroundings.

Materials used in evacuation center should not substandard to ensure the safety.
 ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 93

5. They should identify, assess, monitor and should always aware on the risk,

hazards, and vulnerabilities in their barangays. Effective early warning should be

developed that is appropriately adapted to the peculiar situation of the people at risk.

6. The households must acquire materials such as posters, handouts, videos and

manuals in their homes in case of disasters. They must have list of contacts of their

relatives or emergency hotlines, first aid kit (e.g. medicines, gauze, band aids,

scissors, plasters, digital thermometer, alcohols, and cotton balls) and they should

check their electrical wirings regularly.

7. The household heads must be responsible in knowing the communication

system of their barangay. Particularly the plan of their early warning signal and how

can they relate or understand those indicated signals. Also, they must have

emergency hotlines to call into in case of emergency.

8. They should coordinate with their BDRRMC in assessing the durability of

the materials used in their evacuation area to ensure the safety of each of them

living there for days while experiencing strong winds and heavy rains.

9. Look into the other aspects of disaster preparedness especially on coastal

barangays. This may include family-related variables with parents and guardians.

10. A similar study should be conducted in all the provinces of Region I and to

all of barangay in the 32 municipalities of province of Ilocos Sur.