Isamapa: Identifying Ideal Templates for GIS-based Flood Hazard Maps in Disaster-prone Communities Within Davao City

Abstract

This study investigates the creation of optimal templates for Geographic Information System (GIS) based flood hazard maps in disaster-prone communities within Davao City. The areas that were included in the study are identified by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office as two of the flood-prone barangays in the city. Utilizing comprehensive spatial data and advanced GIS techniques, the research aims to identify and assess the most effective template designs for accurately representing flood hazards with the help of the Purok Disaster Action Team (PDAT).

Data was collected by conducting key informant interviews with several PDAT respondents in the identified flood-prone areas. The research revealed the templates that provide user-friendly visualization of flood-prone zones enabling better disaster preparedness and response strategies. Guided by the theory of Visual Rhetoric by Sonja K. Foss, the study highlights the importance of maps as a vital communication tool for decision-makers to facilitate proactive community-based measures. In turn, the research advocates to mitigate the impact of floods ultimately enhancing the resilience of the communities in Davao City.