Preparedness on Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) Measures, Competence and Challenges Faced by School DRRM Coordinators in Salcedo 1 District, Division of Eastern Samar

Abstract

This explanatory mix-method research examines the preparedness, competence and the challenges of sixteen (16) school DRRM coordinators in Salcedo 1 district, Schools Division of Eastern Samar in response to their task in the implementation of school DRRM measures. The data gathering techniques, namely, used of adopted questionnaire and focus group discussion further explored their preparedness and competence as well as the challenges they experienced and their corresponding coping mechanisms as well as the institutional mechanisms that support the implementation of DRRM in the said district. Significant results of the study revealed that the DRRM coordinators are somewhat prepared for the community risk assessment, communication system and capacity building. Moreover, the competence level of school DRRM coordinators showed and interpreted as “Highly Competent”. In determining the association between preparedness level on DRRM measures and competence of School DRRM coordinators, it resulted to a significant relationship between community risk assessment, communication system and capacity building to the competence of school DRRM coordinators. Recommendations include the sustaining the preparedness of coordinators, developing tactical response and command leadership skills, training in community risk assessment, substantial allocation of funds for DRRM, prioritization DRRM activities and integrating DRRM into School Improvement Plans (SIP) and embed these activities within the school curriculum.