Vulnerability Profile and Risk Perception towards an Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction for the Flood Vulnerable Communities of Davao City

Development and disasters are closely linked but the cause-and-effect relationship between disasters and socio-economic development was ignored in the past. Thus, the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) observed that disasters were seen in the context of emergency response and not as part of long-term development programming. Overtime, effects of disasters can seriously degrade a country’s long-term potential for sustained development. Vulnerable communities of Davao City have experienced flooding that leads to catastrophic effects costing damage to properties and loss of lives. Communities need to build its resiliency to respond to flooding and mitigate its negative impacts, while policy makers and leaders need to consciously, regularly review and update its existing policies to address gaps and promote effective community engagement. This study aims to examine and analyze the respondents’ vulnerability, awareness and perception of flood risks. A survey using multi-stage cluster sampling was conducted among 353 respondents from the top five (5) flood vulnerable barangays. Data from the key informant interviews and focus group discussions were also integrated to provide an in-depth explanation of the patterns emerging from the survey. Results of the study revealed that the vulnerability is associated with socio-demographic characteristics, experience in flooding and responses to flooding. Moreover, risk reduction strategies can be further enhanced through a risk communication management using a localized and participatory approach in the proper knowledge transfer of flood risk communication among the stakeholders involved. Community-based policies and well-defined communication processes must be strengthened to promote inclusive approach towards effective community-based disaster preparedness and management.