Disaster Risk Reduction Management Implementation in the Public Elementary Schools of the Department of Education, Philippines

Abstract

This study evaluates the implementation of the Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) program in terms of disaster planning awareness and preparedness to respond during hazards to prevent disasters in public elementary schools in the Alfonso Lista District, Schools Division of Ifugao. A total of thirty-six (36) public elementary school heads and school disaster risk reduction management (SDRRM) coordinators served as respondents. The survey questionnaires patterned from the DepEd-DRRM Manual were utilized in the study. The weighted mean and the Spearman rank correlation coefficient were used as statistical tools. The findings of the study show that the district implemented safe learning facilities and environments; formed and managed a school-based DRRM; and that the DRRM program was integrated into the curriculum for the benefit of the pupils, personnel, parents, and stakeholders visiting the schools. It reveals that the people involved in implementing the DRRM program are fully prepared for the readiness of the school facilities while the disaster preparedness activities are still improving. The school personnel are aware of and do understand the DRRM program and activities. Furthermore, the extent of disaster preparedness of the elementary schools is significantly associated with the level of their DRRM implementation in terms of safe learning facilities and environment, school risk reduction management, and DRRM integration into learners’ curricula. Moreover, the implementation of DRRM in the public elementary schools of the district is directly and significantly associated with the level of awareness and understanding of the involved personnel.