Disaster Vulnerability Assessment in the Coastal Villages of Cortes, Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Abstract

Climate change has currently taken various forms that are considered alarming and devastating. Such phenomenon invites people’s attention to be resilient and be prepared for its catastrophic effect. Thus, this study is conducted to assess the disaster vulnerability and extent of occurrences of the natural disaster on the coastal villages of Cortes, Surigao del Sur. The study also aims to identify the coping mechanisms of the inhabitants when disasters hit the area. Sixty respondents across 3 villages in Cortes are considered using purposive sampling. Descriptive statistics are used to analyse the data. Among the natural calamities, typhoons associated with strong wind, heavy rains, and drought are the regular catastrophes that hit the villages leading to serious economic instability and health risk. Coping mechanisms of the inhabitants vary depending on the type of calamity that besets them. The damage brought about by climate change is eminent which indicates that risk reduction program and management is imperative.