Communicating Risk and Disaster Preparedness among Coastal Communities in Gitagum, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

Abstract

Risk communication in disasters aims to prepare people to prevent and mitigate disaster impact. The present study explores the influence of risk communications strategies by the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) on the level of disaster preparedness of the coastal communities of the Local Government Unit in Gitagum, Misamis Oriental. The study employed a quantitative design and a descriptive method of research using survey questionnaires. The respondents were the three hundred eighty-six (386) randomly selected individuals living in the coastal areas and residents living along flood prone roads. Based on the findings, the risk communication strategies used by the LDRRMO of the Municipality of Gitagum, particularly on the timing and frequency of communications and the level of trust in institutions, have a significant impact on the participants’ disaster preparedness. However, the community's trust in the local government's provision of risk information needs to be enhanced. The individual’s attitude and awareness on preparedness are rated as satisfactory, suggesting further for an improved level of knowledge on weather conditions. Therefore, the risk communication strategies, specifically on timing and frequency and trust in institutions, by the LDRRMO can influence the disaster preparedness of a community. The study points to the need of assisting local government units in disaster preparedness on effective dissemination of PAGASA weather advisories.