Disaster

is a serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society involving widespread human, material, economic, or
environmental losses and impacts, which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own
resources.

often described as a result of the combination of exposure to hazard.

Learning from past disasters

disasters caused by natural hazards, human-induced incidents, and climate change abound in the country.

problems brought about by the vulnerabilities which increase disaster risks.

poor construction
inappropriate location
fast-growing population
urbanization/environmental degradation
pollution
indifference

Disasters, especially the natural hazards, cannot ultimately be controlled and avoided

However, the underlying factors and pressures that cause the vulnerabilities can be managed so that the risks can be
reduced.

Risk = Hazard * Vulnerability/Capacity

Increase capacity to decrease vulnerability, thus reducing disaster risk

Risk

The combination of the probability of an event and its negative consequences

Hazard

A dangerous phenomenon, substance, human activity or condition that may cause loss of life, injury or other health
impacts, property damage, loss of livelihood and services, social and economic disruption or environmental damage. It
can be natural or human made.

Exposure

The degree to which the elements at risk are likely to experience hazard events of different magnitudes.

Capacity

A combination of all strengths and resources available within a community, society or organization that can reduce the
level of risk of effects of a disaster.

Elements at Risk:

People
Sector
Property
Infrastructure
Services
Environment

Four Thematic Area

1. Prevention and Mitigation

2. Preparedness
 3. Response
4. Rehabilitation and Recovery

RA 10121:

The paradigm shift in the Philippine DRRM system.

An act strengthening the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management System, providing for the National Disaster
Risk Reduction and Management Framework and institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
Plan, appropriating funds therefore and for other purposes.

Salient Features of RA 10121

Policy statements:

Section 2 (g)

Mainstream disaster risk reduction and climate change in development processes such as policy formulation, socio
economic devevelopment, planning, budgeting, and governance, particularly in the areas of environment, agriculture,
water, energy, health, education, poverty reduction, land-use and urban planning and public infrastructure and
housing, among others.

Terminologies on DRRM

Scope (all aspects of DRRM - governance, risk assessment and early warning, knowledge building and awareness
raising, reducing underlying risk factors and preparedness for effecive response)

Institutional Mechanisms and Functions

DRRMCs (National, Regional, Provincial, City and Municipal and the Barangay Development Council at the Barangay
Level)

Office of Civil Defense

Permanent DRRMO at the P/C/M Level; DRRM committee at the barangay level.

Disaster Volunteers

Operational Mechanisms

Coordination during emergencies

Declaration of a state of calamity

Remedial Measures

Mechanism for te IHAN