Extent of Disaster Risk Reduction Management in Selected Elementary
Schools: Evidence from the Philippines
Acierto, C.P., Robas, J.M., & Monte, S.D. (2023). Extent of disaster risk reduction management
in selected elementary schools: Evidence from the Philippines. International Review of Social
Sciences Research, 3(2), 1-15. [Link]
Summary
This study investigates the implementation of Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) in
11 elementary schools in the Santiago District of the Philippines, utilizing the Gawad Kalasag
criteria. It identifies challenges in DRRM implementation and assesses various key areas,
including enabling environment, safe learning facilities, school disaster risk reduction
management, and DRR in education. The findings indicate that schools have fully implemented
safe learning facilities while only partially implementing the enabling environment and school
disaster risk reduction management criteria. Common problems include difficulties in policy
creation, insufficient personnel and budget, and a lack of education and information on DRRM.
Recommendations include developing a DRR integration module, conducting DRRM training,
and allocating budget for DRR initiatives.
5W's and 1H Method
Who: Cherlita P. Acierto, Jessie M. Robas, and Shanedree D. Monte.
What: The study examines the implementation of Disaster Risk Reduction Management
(DRRM) in elementary schools, identifying challenges in the process and its relationship to
emergency evacuation strategies.
When: Data collection took place in early 2023, with publication occurring on April 7, 2023.
Where: The research focuses on 11 elementary schools in Santiago District, Philippines.
Why: To evaluate the effectiveness of DRRM practices in schools and identify challenges that
need to be addressed for improved disaster preparedness and response, particularly in the
context of emergency evacuation strategies.
How: The study used complete enumeration for school heads and DRR coordinators, while
employing random sampling for teachers and pupils. Responses were analyzed using a four-
point scale weighted mean.
Results:
The study found that schools fully implemented safe learning facilities but only partially
implemented the enabling environment and school disaster risk reduction management criteria.
The lowest mean was observed in the DRR in education criteria. Common problems
encountered included difficulties in policy creation, a lack of personnel and budget, and
insufficient education and information on DRRM.
Recommendations:
- Development of a DRR integration module that aligns with emergency evacuation strategies to
ensure all stakeholders are prepared.
- Conducting DRRM training sessions that emphasize evacuation protocols and best practices
for low pace factors in emergencies.
- Allocating dedicated budgets for disaster risk reduction initiatives to enhance overall school
preparedness and response effectiveness.
Contextual Connection to Emergency Evacuation Strategies
This research complements existing literature on emergency evacuation strategies for low pace
factors in elementary schools by emphasizing the importance of a structured DRRM framework.
By integrating DRRM practices into evacuation strategies, schools can better prepare for
emergencies, enhance safety measures, and effectively manage risks. Understanding the
challenges faced in implementing DRRM provides valuable insights for improving evacuation
protocols and ensuring a safe learning environment for students.
Evaluation of Disaster Risk Reduction Management Implementation in
Public Elementary Schools of Alfonso Lista, Philippines
Acierto, C. P., Robas, J. M., & Monte, S. D. (2023). Extent of disaster risk reduction
management in selected elementary schools: Evidence from the Philippines. International
Review of Social Sciences Research, 3(2), 1-20.
[Link]
uclear_research_facilities_report_3200.pdf
Summary:
This study investigates the implementation of the Disaster Risk Reduction Management
(DRRM) program in public elementary schools located in the Alfonso Lista District of the
Schools Division of Ifugao, Philippines. It aims to assess the levels of disaster planning
awareness and preparedness among school personnel to effectively respond during hazards,
thereby preventing potential disasters. The research involved thirty-six public elementary school
heads and School Disaster Risk Reduction Management (SDRRM) coordinators, who
participated in the study through the completion of survey questionnaires based on the
guidelines outlined in the Department of Education's DRRM Manual.
To analyze the collected data, the study employed statistical tools, including weighted means
and the Spearman rank correlation coefficient. The findings indicate that the district has
successfully implemented measures to create safe learning environments and facilities.
Furthermore, it highlights the establishment and management of school-based DRRM teams
and the integration of DRRM principles into the curriculum, benefiting students, personnel,
parents, and other stakeholders.
The results reveal that the personnel involved in the DRRM implementation process exhibit a
high level of preparedness regarding school facilities; however, there are ongoing improvements
needed in disaster preparedness activities. The school staff demonstrated a clear
understanding of the DRRM program and its associated activities. Notably, the extent of
disaster preparedness in these elementary schools is significantly linked to the level of DRRM
implementation, particularly regarding the establishment of safe learning environments, effective
risk management strategies, and the incorporation of DRRM content into educational curricula.
The study concludes that effective implementation of the DRRM program is directly correlated
with the personnel's awareness and understanding of the program, suggesting that enhanced
training and community engagement may further improve disaster preparedness outcomes in
these schools.
5W's 1H Method
Who: The study focuses on public elementary schools in Alfonso Lista District, including school
heads and designated School Disaster Risk Reduction Management Coordinators.
What: The primary objective is to evaluate the level of implementation of the DRRM program,
examining areas such as safe learning environments, disaster preparedness, and DRRM
integration within the curriculum.
When: This evaluation follows significant natural disasters that impacted the region, particularly
noting events in 2012 that led to infrastructure damage and loss of life in nearby provinces.
Where: The research is conducted in the Alfonso Lista District, part of the Philippines, which has
experienced challenges related to disaster management in recent years.
Why: The necessity for this evaluation arises from the increasing frequency and severity of
disasters in the region, necessitating effective disaster preparedness strategies in schools to
safeguard students and staff.
How: The study employs a descriptive comparative methodology, using questionnaires based
on established DRRM frameworks from the Department of Education. It assesses the
awareness, preparedness activities, and implementation levels of DRRM initiatives across the
schools involved.
Result
The findings reveal a generally positive level of DRRM program implementation in the schools.
The overall weighted mean indicates a solid commitment to disaster risk management practices.
Specific results include:
- Safe Learning Facilities: Schools reported effective implementation of safety measures, with a
mean of 3.08. Emergency hotlines were disseminated (WM = 3.44), and evacuation plans were
posted (WM = 3.06). However, the establishment of an early warning system received a lower
rating (WM = 2.97).
- *School DRRM Team Management*: Schools effectively formed and managed their DRRM
teams, with a mean of 3.32, demonstrating robust operational capabilities in monitoring hazards
and conducting damage assessments post-disasters.
- DRRM Curriculum Integration: The integration of DRRM into the curriculum was noted with an
overall mean of 3.09. Schools conducted disaster preparedness drills and integrated DRRM
topics into lesson plans, although some areas like innovative work plans for advocacy had lower
scores (WM = 2.92).
- Disaster Preparedness Extent: In terms of stakeholder involvement, schools exhibited strong
support, with an overall mean of 3.42. The involvement of local government units and school
personnel was particularly noteworthy, highlighting effective community engagement in disaster
preparedness e ffective community engagement in disaster preparedness efforts.
Recommendation
To enhance the effectiveness of the DRRM program in public elementary schools, the following
recommendations are proposed:
-Regular Review of Plans: Schools should regularly evaluate and update their disaster
preparedness plans to ensure they are relevant and responsive to emerging threats. This
includes adapting strategies based on feedback from drills and real-life scenarios.
-Improving School Facilities: Increased investment in school infrastructure is crucial to ensure
that facilities are adequately prepared for disasters. This could involve enhancing safety
features and ensuring that essential resources are available during emergencies.
-Training and Capacity Building: Ongoing training programs for school staff should be
established to improve their disaster response skills and knowledge. This includes workshops,
simulations, and collaborations with local emergency services to foster a culture of
preparedness.
-Community Engagement Initiatives: Schools should actively engage with local communities to
build strong support networks for disaster management. This can involve organizing community
drills, information sessions, and partnerships with local organizations to ensure a coordinated
response during disasters.
-Research and Funding for DRR: There is a pressing need for increased funding and attention
towards DRR research to better understand community vulnerabilities and develop tailored
interventions. Schools and local government units should collaborate to secure resources for
comprehensive DRR initiatives.