Household Preparedness for Natural Disasters in Flood-Prone Areas of Misamis Occidental, Philippines

Despite tremendous and concerted efforts, natural disasters continually posed threats to societies all over the world. An estimated 50.3% of the total area of the Philippines and 81.3% of its population are vulnerable to natural disasters making the country as a natural disaster hot-spot. Hence, household and individual preparedness in response to natural disasters is vital. This paper looked into the disaster preparedness of the households located in the flood prone areas in the province of Misamis Occidental. The coastal cities and towns in the province are identified as prone to coastal flooding while some of its rivers are highly susceptible to overflowing. This study employed the descriptive design and survey method. Questionnaires were administered to 631 households in the identified flood-prone barangays Ozamiz City and Oroquieta City. The overall findings revealed that the households are moderately prepared for natural disasters. Results also showed that they are less prepared in terms of life safety and protection and initiation for recovery. The findings of the study may help identify vulnerabilities and strategies to adequately prepare the households from the adversities of floods and other natural disasters and may also provide basis to improve local policies on disaster preparedness.

 

Keywords: adversities, coastal, rivers, threats, vulnerability