Background

1.1 Introduction
Environmental hazards is widely recognized as a factor that affects the livelihoods of many
people frequently around the world. Thus, cannot be expected that these effects are similar as
people’s lifestyle differ in terms of their level of development, which largely determines their
response to specific disasters (Weldegebriel and Amphune, 2017)

A river is an important natural resource for farmers especially hog raisers due to the obvious
water. It is an indispensable commodity useful for feeding, cleaning and even butchering.
Fortunately, among the non-dense areas in prk. Waling-waling brgy. Pangi, water is free and
very accessible through Pangi river.

Pangi river, since the time of immemorial, had been a source for irrigation for rice farmers, also
a rich resource for other agricultural activities. Lately, it has served as a tourist attraction
specifically, for ‘White Water Tubing'. To the hog raisers, the water of Pangi river was a
constant supply for their project.

Agriculture sectors remains one of the most vulnerable to climate change in the Philippines that
affects food security (NICCDIES 2018). Swine farms are one of the most common in the
Philippine agriculture for food, jobs and income. However, most of the swine cages are poorly
structured and continuously exposed to natural disasters, hence it is affected and vulnerable to
changes in climate (Israel and Briones, 2013)

In most cases of flooding impacts, the most vulnerable landscapes for flooding are low-lying
areas and basins where rivers approach their base level (Nott, 2006). These areas, particularly in
semi-arid regions, are subject to flash floods due to torrential rainfall and steep escarpments in
their headwaters (Bull & Kirkby, 2002). On the international datas, during the months of June
and early July 2016, heavy rainfall led to severe flooding in China resulting farms in WuhanCity
and as well as independently operated black hog farms in Enshi Prefecture suffered significant
damage (Linden, 2016). As well as livestock deaths, there has been damage to buildings and
equipment, and contamination of feed store according to a leading producer of breeding pigs,
market hogs and black hogs. The floods coincided with the most critical time of the year, the
lean (minor) farming season when some consumers in Wuhan City faced food insecurity (Watt
Poultry, 2016)

For a society largely dependent on agriculture and its natural resources and environment, the
data and information as well as overall knowledge gained from the study may prove useful in
developing strategies to address the ill-effects of natural disasters. However, upon further
research, it was found that there is no recent study that has been conducted about
preparedness and response to flood for swine farms in the locality of Maitum, specifically in
Brgy. Pangi, Purok Waling-waling. This lack of information served as the gap that pushed the
researchers to conduct this study. Moreover, the results and findings may assist in identifying
new studies that can soon be undertaken in relation to natural disasters, an important research
concern which still lacks the necessary level of focus in the Philippines.

Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing the level of preparedness and response to flood for
swine farms in barangay Pangi, purok Waling-Waling, to provide information to Farmers,
Municipal Agriculture Office, and different stakeholders to decide and to take an action.

1.2. Statement of the Problem

This research aims to answer the following question to find out what are the experiences of the
swine farmers in purok Waling-waling during the flood:

1. How prepared are the swine farmers for any eventual flood with in the area?
2. What is the possible preparation response/strategy of the individual farmers (and the
Government) in case of flooding in the area?
3. What are the experiences of the hog raisers during the flood relative to their
business/livelihood or project?
1.3. Significance of the Study

This research discusses the information where the impact of the output will mostly affect. In
this case, the beneficiary of the result of this research will primarily be the future researcher,
the farmers, and the Department of Agriculture.

- future researchers will benefit from the findings of the study because the data gathered will
help them create a program or plan and or proposal that will solve the problem of impact of
flood to the swine farmers.

- The research subjects or respondents will directly benefit from the programs such as
information, infrastructure or insurance that will assist them from the result/ impact of the
route flood in Pangi.

- The government agency especially the Department of Agriculture will also benefit due to the
fact that the result of this research, the data and information, the feedbacks, and the proposals
may be a basis to

II. Review of Related Literature

This chapter is composed of discussions of facts and principles to which the present study is
related to. It also explains the relation of the key words to the researchers’ study furtherly to
give them full understanding of the developments in the field.
Floods are among disasters that cause widespread destruction to human lives, properties and
the environment every year and occur at different places with varied scales across the globe.
Flood disasters are caused by natural phenomena, but their occurrences and impacts have been
intensified through human actions and inactions.

Notable from the study was that whereas level of awareness was high among residents,
preparedness levels were generally low, especially in terms of financial preparedness. Several
recommendations were proposed, which include improving public education and sensitisation
on flood disaster preparedness strategies, creating financial support scheme for residents to
increase their financial preparedness as well as encouraging residents to increase their social
capital support and participate in community gatherings (Glago, F.J., 2019).

Increasing uncertainty and variability in weather due to climate change puts enormous stress
on the sustainability of agricultural communities. These extreme weather events affect many
animal facilities, and flooding can cause long-term impacts on animal health and productivity
(Samantha Crist et al. Prev Vet Med. 2020 Nov.) Although the consequences of emergencies can
be similar, knowing the risks specific to your community and your region can help you better
prepare. It is even more important to be aware of the risks in your area if you live on a farm
with livestock.

1 According to Inchaisri et al. (2013) a catastrophic flood disaster affected not only
humans but also took animal lives. Data on livestock losses, including death, loss, and
decreased production. The results indicated that the majority of livestock losses were from
poultry and swine farms. The density of poultry and swine loss was significantly different
between sub-districts with clusters of high-density loss alongside the river, particularly in Chum
Saeng and Kao Liew. Using spatial hot spot analysis as a tool to classify and rank the areas with
high flood risks provides an informative outline for farmers to be aware of potential flood
damage. To avoid unexpected loss from flooding, poultry and swine farms in risk areas should
be properly managed, particularly during the flooding season between August and December.
III. Methodology

This chapter outlines the procedures and methods used in conducting the study. It presents the
research design and research focale. The chapter also presents the study methodology and data
analysis Finally, it presents a conclusion on the research design and methodology.

3.1. Research Design and Method.

In this study, the researchers used quantitative and qualitative data collection methods with a
phenomenological approach. In qualitative research, commonly used approaches are grounded
theory and phenomenology. Grounded theory, in this case, involves face-to-face interactions
with respondents, such as through interviews and focus group discussions. The purpose of this
method is to develop theory on the behaviors or experiences of participants. Phenomenology is
similar to grounded theory in some respects, such as exploration of the behavior of
respondents and data collection techniques. However, it tries to understand their subjective
experiences and its purpose is to understand a concept or a phenomenon concerned with
human experience and perception (Cerbone, 2010; Reiter et al., 2011; Salmon & Buetow, 2013;
Sutton & Austin, 2015). As a qualitative approach, phenomenology focuses on a lived
experience of individuals (Creswell, 2013). This design helps to collect data about individuals
and community experiences and preparedness on flood events (Caelli, 2001; Groenewald,
2004). Hence, in this study, we used phenomenology to understand the experiences, level of
preparedness, and coping mechanisms or response

3.2. Focal of the Study

Pangi River is the boundary between the Municipality of Maitum and the Municipality of
Kamba, Sarangani Province. Pangi River is located at Maitum, Sarangani Province. The
headwater of this river originates from Mount Busa, Datal Mahe or Datal Aga of Sarangani
Province. Its upstream portion is located at NIA Dam, New La Union, Maitum, Sarangani
Province with coordinates N 06° 04'17.8" E 124° 34"39.8". The downstream portion is located
at the foot of the Pangi Bridge, Maitum Sarangani Province, approximately 1-2 kilometers. It is
primarily used for irrigation as well as for bathing and washing of both the residents and their
livestocks, (Rellon, 2013). Pangi river empties into Sarangani Bay. In addition, the research shall
be conducted particularly among the hog raisers along the banks of Pangi river,specifically prk.
Waling-waling.

3.2.1. Setting

Purposive sampling was used to select participants. All participants were asked for consent
after researchers explained the study purpose, assured privacy, and informed them that they
could withdraw at any time. Participants were interviewed in their home environment until
data saturation occurred.
3.3.1 Sample

Participants in this study are farmers who lived along the banks of the Pangi River and were
affected recently by the flash flood. The sample was 7 participants (due to the unavailability
and declines of 3 persons) ranging in age from 25-50 years. The method of selecting
participants is done by purposive sampling or purposive sampling, i.e. (the sample chosen is
oriented towards the research objectives. Deliberately, Individuals are selected or chosen
because they have experienced the following the phenomenon under study). At the
recruitment stage, the researchers used the inclusion criteria, so those prospective participants
matched the research objectives. The inclusion criteria include: 1) swine farmers who are
affected by flash floods. 2) Age 25-50 years because researchers assume that individuals are
physically and cognitively mature. 3) is willing to participate as a participant by answering
willingness to become a participant, 4) can tell his experience well / cooperatively.
2.2.4. Data Gathering
Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured approach that allowed them to elaborate
on their personal experiences. After an initial introductory period during which the participant
gained familiarity and trust, participants were asked for their preferred languages to prevent
language barriers, then the interviewer asked an open-ended question relative to their current
experience of flood disaster in general. Predictive techniques such as probing, reflection, and
paraphrasing were used to indicate an understanding of the participants’ experiences. Follow
up questions were asked only if essential for clarification. Interviews were terminated when
participants indicated that they had exhausted their descriptions. All interviews were audio-
recorded and transcribed. Pictures taken for documentary purposes were blurred as the
participants requested. The interviews lasted between 4 to 9 minutes and were conducted over
2 weeks.

3.3 Statistical Treatment

The data gathered in this research through the questionnaires was treated statistically using the
following formula for percentage (% = n/N x 100) to answer the problem 1. Comparative
analysis was utilized by the researchers. In answering problem 2 & 3, thematic analysis was also
used and the data was presented accordingly in non-verbatim.
IV. Result and Discussion

4.1. Thematic Analysis

Theme 1: Not expecting any flood.

The statements below show the lack of preparedness of the farmers due to the unexpected
disaster caused by flash floods at night. The lack of preparedness caused damages and losses on
their swine farms. Several participants stated that:

(Respondent 1) : “nu han nga nagriyaw jay karuba mi, nga ag babbahaen, ta rabii may ajay
idi(nangyari ang baha) baka na layos amamin nga babassit. (baboy)”
Translation: If our neighbor did not shout and told us that it is flooding, because it was night at
that time, maybe our piglets did not survive and drowned.

(Respondent 2) : “ada natay nga duwa, naanod. Natay. Han mi nabantayan.”

Translation: Two were drowned, they died. We didn’t notice.

(Respondent 5) : “yung pagtaas ng tubig bigla lang nag taas”

Translation: the rise of water level, it rose unexpectedly.

(Respondent 4) “Ang affected masyado is yung mga feeds namin , dyan lang kasi dyan lang
kasi siya sa likod.”
Translation: The feeds were the most affected because it was just placed at the back.

Theme 2: Evacuated the pigs during the flood.

Due to the lack of preparedness of the farmers, when the disaster came, the farmers couldn’t
do anything but respond to the flood while it is happening. Unfortunately, it is too late for
some. It was expressed by several participants:

(Respondent 1) : “wen, naapektaran. Dagijay mga baboy mi nga babassit, inyalis mi ijay cr. Ket
dagijay mga dadadakkel arajay da lattan, naka ngato ti ulo da.”
Translation: Yes, we were affected. We replaced our piglets on our cr. While the bigger ones,
they stayed and only their heads were above the water.

(Respondent 2): “nalayos, amin na kulungan. Naanod iti kanen da. Mga baboy insang at mi.
han me ammon nagipappapanan mi dagijay bababoy.”
Translation: It was drift away. All the swine cages, their foods. The pigs, we did’nt know where
to put them.

Theme 3: Still Use the Resources even with the Damages.

Financial problems or lack of budget and lack of knowledge about the possibilities of disasters
resulted to struggles in responding to the flash flood that happened. The farmers did not have
any choices but to adjust and adapt on the ill-effects of the disaster. Three (3) examples are
stated below:

(Respondent 2): “nilinisan ang mga kulungan. Tas binalik ang mga baboy. No choice eh.”
Translation: We put them back in their cages, we had no choice.

(Respondent 7) “Wala na, yung mga damages wala na, sa feeds... Ano na, parang pinakain din
yun eh. Pero dapat kasi sa feeds kung mabasa siya pakain mo na lahat, malaki din yung
damage”
Translation: The damage was huge, we just fed the wet feeds.

Theme 4: Clueless for responses on stronger flood possibilities.

The effects of the flash floods shocked the farmers that they could not do anything during the
happenings. These statements imply that they are not ready for another possibility of a much
stronger disasters, it also shows that they lack any knowledge about responses and recovery
more than they should have.

(Respondent 9): “narigat ah, no kaspangarigan nga napigpigsan to pay. Madaddadael man
diyay dike idta, delikadon. Madik ammo ah no kasanon ton.”
Translation: That’s hard, if stronger flood will come. The dike there is almost broken, it’s
dangerous. I don’t know what to do.

(Respondent 2): “nu napigpigsan to pay, no mabantayan ket isafety. Ngem no haan tapoos
biglaan, nalpas ah. Patay lahat ng mga baboy.”
Translation: If stronger flood will come, and we will notice it, we will put them to safety first.
But if not, we’re done. All the Pigs will die

Theme 5: Unable to respond without the help of the government.

Immediate response and action is the theme of people’s hope after the flood that occurred in
the area. The theme was built by the sub-theme social status and knowledge of the farmers
that prevent them to fix the problem of the river themselves. The hope of making an action on
the specific cause or preventing the flood is the desire of the community, especially farmers to
help them recover and response more effectively.

(Respondent 2): “Sana ayusin ang pangi river. Yun lang. han mi gamin makaya nu siksikami
laeng nga awan tulong ti gobyerno. Mannalon kaskada agbabbaboy kami met laeng. Wala sa
budget.”
Translation: I hope they can fix the river. We can’t do it on ourselves. We’re just farmers and
hog raisers.
(Respondent 10): “Sana icheck nila kung saan ang pinanggagalingan ng baha dahil di ko
sigurado kung saan ba”
Translation: I hope they can check where the flood is coming from, because I’m also not sure.

4.2. Comparative Analysis

The data results are such as that out of (ten) 10 swine farms sampled in the survey, 90% were
affected and the remainder were not as shown in figure 1 below.

PRK. WALING-WALING HOG

RAISERS

AFFECTED
NOT AFFECTED
10%

90%

Figure 1. Comparative Analysis on the Affected Swine Farms

Furthermore, 70% of the swine farmers are single or dependent farmers, while only 30% are
farmers with partners or companion on the farm (See figure 2 below). In Addition, 60% of the
farmers treat their farms as a part time job more than the 40% full time job (Figure 3). The
research also revealed that both dependent and with partners were affected but not the same
level of response.
 TYPE OF FARMER

SINGLE
30% WITH PARTNER
70%

Figure 2. Comparative Analysis on the type of Farmers

TYPE OF JOB

FULL TIME
PART TIME
40%

60%

Figure 3. Comparative Analysis on the treatment of Farmers on the Farm.

The research revealed that the placements and level of grounds were majoritized by low-
medium grounds, with (60%) of low ground followed by medium ground(30%)(Figure 4). The
implication is such that since the ground level is at low-medium ground, increased exposure to
flood will exacerbate their vulnerabilities.
 PLACES OF SWINE FARM

10% LOW GROUND

MEDIUM GROUND
HIGH GROUND
30%
60%

Figure 4. Comparative Analysis on the Places of Swine Farm

There is clear evidence that the swine farmers in Prk. Waling-waling had very limited options as
to where to build their farms, as most of them indicated to have little or no significant
secondary places and resources. The implication is such that the farmers will have reduced level
of preparedness and response to flood due to lack of place options.

It was observed that the type of cages played a role on the preparedness and response to flood.
Those who had full type concrete cages experienced little or no significant damage on their
swine farms as opposed to the wood and mixed type of cages. Unfortunately, only a small
percentage of the sampled swine farms had a full type concrete cage. (See figure 5 below)

USED CAGES

WOOD
40% 40% CONCRETE
MIXED

20%

Figure 5. Comparative Analysis on the Type of Cages Used for Swine Farms
V. Conclusion and Recommendation
From the results of the analysis, it is clear that the flood, particularly from the month of March
to April impacted on the livelihood and critical aspects namely agriculture and property of
people in Brgy. Pangi in Prk. Waling-waling. The livelihood of the sampled households was
swine farming. The survey established that over 90% of households had their swine farms
affected and this ultimately resulted into losses and damages. As discussed and under the
agriculture section, swine production was one of the livelihoods in Prk. Waling-waling. This in a
way reduced people’s income since income sources are embedded in livelihoods and resulting
poor responses from farmers.

Data shows that (70%) of the farmers are single or dependent farmers, who works alone on
their swine farms. (60%) of them only works on their farms as a part time job. This ultimately
contributed to decrease of flood preparedness and risk managements. These incidences were
also attributed to swine farms placed on low ground with (60%) more than a half higher than
those on high grounds (10%). Although the low grounds are the most affected type of placed
farms, the middle grounds (30%) were also affected (e.g., cages, foods and water) Regarding
irrigation, the river was the main source of water for livelihoods especially swine farms. This
means that farmers will continue to be vulnerable to increased disaster outbreak as long as
their farms is located at a low-medium ground. This is a result of lack of information about the
possibilities of flooding. Caging units, most of which were made of woods and mixed type
(concrete and woods) were damaged in one way or the other, forcing hogs to relocate to other
alternative areas. The results from the study established that swine farms lost a number of both
productive and non- productive assets making them more vulnerable. The main response
employed by farmers were shifting their hogs on higher grounds and making furrows and canals
during floods. It is clear from the findings that these responses are not very effective. The
coping strategies employed by farmers was to adapt and forcefully bring back the hogs to their
cages with the unfixed damages. The results also show varying underlying causes of people’s
vulnerability and unpreparedness which poses a challenge as far as reducing levels of
vulnerability is concerned. These include lack of disaster management as the main one, poor
cage structures and lack of knowledge about the possibilities of floods. Overall, the objective of
the study as outlined in chapter one (1) have to a large extent been realized. Government and
key co-parenting partners should implement the recommendations proposed in this study.

Therefore, the researchers conclude that the level of preparedness and response of farmers in
Brgy. Pangi, Prk. Waling-waling are substandard due to the facts and results stated above. The
local communities coping capacities should not be underestimated but rather built upon. The
focus must be on improving livelihood conditions of the people. The communities should be
encouraged to build swine farms using durable materials and away from the flood prone area
as a way of coping with the floods. Furthermore, the Local Gov’t units and MDRRMO must
assist and fix the root of the occurring flood. Lastly, Input support programme for the
vulnerable but viable farmers should be considered.