OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Public opinion will never lose its weight. While typhoons and earthquakes are natural occurrences, the devastation they cause is not always inevitable. Calling them "natural disasters" ignores the role we play in compounding their impact. Equally important is the point that how we perceive the threats shapes the methods we employ in addressing them.

The idea of "natural disasters" is misleading. Disasters are actually consequences of natural hazards that are worsened by human actions. This perspective aligns with the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR), which emphasizes how human factors like unplanned development, poverty, environmental damage, and lack of international cooperation contribute to the impact of disasters. 

The necessary paradigm shift is reflected in our law. In terms of policy, there have been major shifts in the approach to managing disaster. We are way beyond the rationale of the country’s first disaster law, Presidential Decree 1566, issued in June 1978 and entitled Strengthening the Philippine Disaster Control, Capability and Establishing the National Program on Community Disaster Preparedness. The reactive nature of the policy stems from the assumption that disasters could not be avoided. Taking stock of the insights from international covenants such as the Hyogo Framework for Action, to which the Philippines is a signatory,  and our own national experience, Republic Act No. 101211 was enacted in 2010. Also known as The Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, it recognized that the impact of disasters could be mitigated. This statute defines disaster as a serious disruption of the functioning of a community or a society involving widespread human, material, economic, or environmental losses and impacts, which exceeds the ability of the affected community or society to cope using its own resources. 

However, the question remains: Have we truly internalized this proactive approach at the community level?

It bears reiterating that a strong localized approach is at the heart of any effective disaster management, as reflected in the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and existing national laws. Local Government Units (LGUs) and communities are the first line of defense and responders against potential impacts that will vary in each community, so building their capacities to address disaster risk is needed to avoid or minimize costs and impacts.

While we have legal frameworks for disaster risk reduction, much remains to be done in fostering community participation. This starts with access to information. In times of crisis, an informed citizenry equipped with critical thinking skills becomes crucial for identifying reliable real-time data.  Only when people take ownership, from prevention to rehabilitation and recovery, can disaster preparedness efforts become truly sustainable.  To increase participation, we also need to strengthen institutional channels for collaboration. This can involve engaging micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and implementing participatory programs. By addressing economic concerns through these efforts, residents will be more likely to actively engage in barangay council planning initiatives. This is an authentic way of leaving no one behind.

These community-driven approaches to different kinds of hazards are exemplified by organizations like the Mengal Women Organization (MWO). MWO tackles a crucial social hazard – gender-based violence – by providing comprehensive support for women and children in need. Their 24/7 crisis center offers temporary shelter, medical and legal assistance, and crucial counseling services. It also empowers survivors through livelihood development programs and self-improvement initiatives. This holistic approach to women's safety demonstrates how local organizations can address social vulnerabilities within their communities. Leading this vital organization is Maria Katrina Jessica G. Dy, whose work with the MWO demonstrates a deep commitment to women's safety. This dedication extends beyond the local level, as Ms. Dy recently assumed the role of national president of the Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas (LnB). This leadership position will elevate MWO's advocacy for women's safety to a national scale. Reassuringly, LnB, the legal body responsible for barangay representation in councils and addressing governance issues, has a credible leadership team. 

There are givens that are beyond us like our country's location in the typhoon belt and ring of fire. However, let us never forget that to a certain extent, we make our collective realities.