CEST2025

The study assessed the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) capacity preparedness of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Polangui, Albay, revealing a combination of strengths and critical areas needing improvement. Baseline data from gathered sources informed on DRRM personnel levels that are generally adequate. However, significant shortages emerge during large-scale disasters, particularly in remote barangays. In terms of training programs, though these are implemented, lack consistency. Moreover, these specialize predominantly on Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Basic Life Support (BLS). Inclusion of robust evaluation mechanisms are absent; leaving critical areas like Search and Rescue (SAR) and Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (DANA) underemphasized. Asset distribution is uneven, with some barangays well-equipped while others lack essential mobility and debris-clearing tools. Early warning systems are widespread, but their effectiveness is compromised by power outages and communication disruptions. Evacuation centers are generally available, but access to specialized transportation and medical equipment, such as stretchers, is inconsistent. Underlying these operational challenges are systemic governance and coordination issues. Despite awareness of national DRRM frameworks, their integration into local planning, stakeholder engagement, and policy monitoring remains limited. Communication and coordination challenges, coupled with equipment maintenance issues and a lack of standardized incentives for DRRM personnel, hinder response efficiency. Among the recommendations to enhance DRRM capacity is to ensure that LGU Polangui prioritize several interventions as proposed in the study. These include strengthening personnel deployment through centralized databases and surge-capacity mechanisms; standardizing and expanding training programs to include SAR and DANA, with rigorous evaluations; rebalancing asset allocation to ensure all barangays are adequately equipped; upgrading communication systems with resilient technologies; and incentivizing DRRM personnel. Furthermore, DRRM plans should be fully integrated into local development strategies, with enhanced stakeholder engagement, robust monitoring, and evaluation tools. The incorporation of advanced technologies like GIS and scientific data, along with improvements to road and bridge infrastructure, will enhance evidence-based decision-making and improve disaster response times, ultimately bolstering LGU Polangui's overall disaster resilience.