SAILING THROUGH THE DELUGE: A CASE STUDY ON THE COMMUNITY-LED

FLOOD RESPONSE IN BARANGAY SAN MIGUEL

Review of Related Literature
This section provided a comprehensive exploration of existing studies, theories, and
practices relevant to the topic under investigation. By examining previous research
and scholarly works, this section aimed to establish a strong foundation for
understanding the context, identifying gaps, and situating the current study within
the broader academic discourse.
Vulnerability and Impact of Flooding
The Philippines is an archipelagic nation characterized by its unique geographical
and climatic conditions, which significantly contribute to its vulnerability to flooding.
According to Benavidez et al. (2016), the country's location exposes it to extreme
weather events, particularly typhoons and heavy rainfall, which are prevalent in the
region. This susceptibility is further exacerbated by natural factors such as heavy
rainfall, and high tides, which can overwhelm water systems and drainage
capabilities, leading to catastrophic flooding events (Odm et al., 2022).
The severity of flooding in the Philippines is influenced not only by the volume of
rainfall but also by the characteristics of flood events, including flow velocity and
water quantity. Liu et al. (2018) highlights that high flow velocities combined with
low water quantities can result in sudden dike failures, while large volumes of water
with low velocities may not breach dikes but can still cause significant flood.
Historically, the impacts of flooding on communities in the Philippines have been
profound. Major flooding events have led to loss of life, displacement, and
significant economic damage. For instance, Typhoon Washi in 2011 resulted in over
1,200 casualties and extensive destruction, illustrating the human cost of such
disasters (Benavidez et al., 2016). The psychological ramifications of recurrent
flooding events are also noteworthy, as Tanay (2023) points out that these disasters
can lead to long-term mental health issues among affected populations.
Moreover, the historical context of flooding in the Philippines reveals a pattern of
inadequate preparedness and response strategies. Kurata et al. (2023) emphasize
that the lack of effective disaster risk management frameworks can exacerbate the
challenges faced by communities during flooding, resulting in increased morbidity
and mortality rates. Conversely, communities with prior experience of flooding tend
to develop better resilience strategies, learning from past events to implement
adaptive measures for future occurrences (Azzahro, 2023).
Flooding events have profound psychological and social impacts on affected
communities, significantly influencing mental health outcomes. Research indicates
that individuals exposed to flooding often experience heightened levels of
psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD). Rocha et al. (2021) emphasize that the psychological effects of
disasters can be long-lasting, with survivors facing compounded stress as they
navigate recovery while managing ongoing challenges. Eala et al. (2022) also
highlighted the critical need for comprehensive mental health support systems to
address these intertwined issues effectively.
Moreover, the role of community support systems in mitigating the psychological
impacts of flooding cannot be overstated. Das et al. (2022), reported that recurrent
flooding in Bangladesh was associated with persistent mental health symptoms
among residents. Their findings suggest that community-based interventions can
play a crucial role in fostering resilience and providing necessary support during and
after flood events. By leveraging local networks and resources, communities can
create a supportive environment that promotes mental well-being.
Furthermore, the psychological and social impacts of flooding are complex and
multifaceted, necessitating a holistic approach to disaster management. The
integration of mental health support within community frameworks is essential for
fostering resilience in affected populations (Rocha et al. 2021). By prioritizing
community engagement and addressing the strain on healthcare systems,
stakeholders can develop more effective strategies to mitigate the psychological
impacts of flooding, ultimately enhancing the overall recovery process for affected
communities (Eala et al. 2022).
Community Resilience and Engagement in Flood Management
Cayamanda and Paunlagui (2020) highlight the significance of community
engagement and participatory management in flood mitigation policies in the
Philippines. Local communities must be actively involved in building resilience
through effective communication and engagement strategies. Broader
understanding that community resilience is not merely about recovery but also
about proactive measures that empower individuals and groups to prepare for and
respond to disasters.
Furthermore, Yonson (2019) adds that identifying a range of interventions can
strengthen resilience against floods across different regions of the Philippines. The
need for policies that prioritize effectiveness in reducing welfare risks associated
with flooding, suggest that a targeted approach can yield significant benefits for
vulnerable communities. Incorporation of traditional and local knowledge into
disaster management strategies integrates valuable insights that can complement
scientific knowledge, leading to more effective and contextually relevant disaster
management policies. Engaging communities in the planning and execution of these
initiatives fosters resilience and enhances the sustainability of disaster response
efforts (Radel et al. 2023).
Moreover, Tan et al. (2018) highlights the role of technological advancements, such
as high-resolution Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) obtained through LiDAR
technology, in providing critical information for water depth mapping. This data is
essential for effective flood risk management, as it allows communities to better
understand their vulnerabilities and prepare accordingly.
Effective local government units (LGUs) can significantly enhance community
resilience through active participation (Laingo, 2022). Collaboration between local
authorities and community members in disaster management strategies is
important. Community preparedness is critical for effective emergency response,
particularly in flood-prone areas. Communities that are actively involved in disaster
planning are also better equipped to respond to emergencies (Prihantini et al.
2022).
The proactive measures taken by communities before, during, and after disasters
are essential for mitigating vulnerability and enhancing survivability (Macose,
2022). Governmental support and the establishment of learning networks among
cities strengthen community preparedness. Individual efforts alone are insufficient
without a cohesive community strategy that encourages collaboration and shared
learning (Kim & Kim, 2022).
Adams et al. (2019) highlight the influence of community characteristics, such as
homeownership and stability, on disaster preparedness behaviors. Empowered
communities, characterized by strong social ties and a sense of belonging, are
better equipped to respond effectively to disasters. Communities perceived as
resilient can better support their members in overcoming the psychological impacts
of disasters, thereby enhancing overall recovery outcomes (Huang et al. (2019).
The integration of local knowledge and traditional coping mechanisms into disaster
management strategies is essential for enhancing community resilience, particularly
in flood-prone areas. Macose (2022) highlights that community resilience involves
proactive measures taken before, during, and after disasters, which are often
informed by traditional coping mechanisms. These practices not only enhance
preparedness but also empower communities to take ownership of their disaster
response efforts. Local knowledge and cultural practices also play a vital role in
enhancing disaster preparedness. Integrating local cultural practices into disaster
management strategies is effective as it fosters community participation and
ownership. Such integration not only improves preparedness but also builds social
cohesion and trust among community members (Juita et al. 2020).
The importance of integrating local practices into formal disaster management
strategies cannot be overstated. Incorporating local cultural practices into disaster
management enhances community participation and improves the effectiveness of
preparedness efforts. When local knowledge is recognized within formal
frameworks, it fosters a sense of ownership among community members,
encouraging them to actively engage in disaster risk reduction initiatives (Juita et al.
2020). Community-based disaster management significantly enhances resilience by
fostering local engagement and ownership of disaster preparedness initiatives. Such
integration not only strengthens community ties but also ensures that disaster
management strategies are contextually relevant and culturally appropriate (Azad
et al. 2019).
The incorporation of traditional and local knowledge into disaster management
strategies, recognizing the value of local insights in complementing scientific
knowledge (Radel et al., 2023). Engaging communities in the planning and
execution of disaster management initiatives is necessary as it leads to more
effective and sustainable outcomes. Governmental support and the establishment
of learning networks among cities to reinforce community preparedness, indicating
that local practices should be recognized and integrated into broader disaster
management frameworks. Such collaboration between local communities and
government entities is vital for creating effective disaster response strategies (Kim
& Kim, 2022).
Socio-Economic Factors and Disaster Preparedness
The socio-economic status of a community plays a pivotal role in shaping its
preparedness and response to disasters. Oddo et al. (2018) emphasize that
understanding the socio-economic effects of flooding is crucial, particularly in how
displacement can disrupt social networks and support systems. This disruption can
hinder effective response efforts, as communities with lower socio-economic status
often lack the resources and infrastructure necessary for robust disaster
preparedness. Complementing this, Tate et al. (2021) highlights that the loss of
public infrastructure, such as schools and healthcare facilities, exacerbates social
vulnerabilities, indicating that socio-economic factors significantly influence the
capacity of communities to respond to disasters. Socio-economic disparities can
create barriers to effective disaster response, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Social capital and community networks are essential components that enhance
resilience in the face of disasters. Zander et al. (2023) emphasizes the importance
of community pride and attachment, which are often influenced by socio-economic
conditions, in contributing to resilience against natural hazards. When communities
are socially cohesive and possess strong networks, they are more likely to engage in
collective action, thereby improving their overall preparedness and response
capabilities.
The integration of diverse stakeholders is crucial for effective disaster governance,
as highlighted by Yang and Wu (2020). They argue that social capital plays a
significant role in fostering collaborative efforts among community members, which
can be influenced by socio-economic status. Communities with higher socio-
economic status often have better access to resources and networks, enabling them
to engage more effectively in disaster preparedness initiatives. Adams et al. (2019)
support this notion by finding that community characteristics, such as
homeownership and stability, significantly influence disaster preparedness
behaviors. Socio-economic factors not only affect individual preparedness but also
shape the collective response of communities during disasters.
Moreover, the correlation between local government preparedness and community
readiness is critical in understanding the socio-economic dynamics at play. Laingo
(2022) notes a moderate correlation between the preparedness of local government
units (LGUs) and the perceived readiness of individuals for disasters, suggesting
that socio-economic factors can impact both community and governmental
preparedness. This relationship highlights the importance of fostering strong
partnerships between local governments and communities, particularly in socio-
economically disadvantaged areas. Prihantini et al. (2022) further stated that
community preparedness is essential for effective emergency response, particularly
in flood-prone regions. Socio-economic disparities can significantly affect the level
of preparedness and response capabilities within communities.
Government policies play a crucial role in shaping effective flood management
strategies at both national and local levels. Yusmah et al. (2020) emphasize that the
Malaysian government has adopted a dual approach, implementing both structural
measures, such as embankments, and non-structural measures, including flood
forecasting and land-use planning. Integrating various methods is important in
mitigating flood risks and enhancing community resilience.
The effectiveness of institutional frameworks in supporting community responses to
flooding is also critical. Mehryar and Surminski (2020) point out that national
strategies, such in Egypt provide a structured approach to flood risk management
that can be tailored to local contexts. These flood mitigation frameworks are
essential for ensuring that local governments have the necessary guidelines and
resources to implement effective flood management practices. Ridzuan et al. (2022)
further emphasizes that aligning national policies with international frameworks,
such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, is vital for fostering a
multi-hazard approach to disaster management. This alignment not only enhances
the effectiveness of local policies but also ensures that communities are better
prepared to respond to various flood-related challenges.
Driessen et al. (2018) support this notion by discussing the critical role of financial
resources and budget allocation in effective flood management frameworks. They
argue that ensuring sufficient funding for flood risk management strategies,
including infrastructure investments and community engagement initiatives, is
essential for empowering local authorities to implement effective responses.
Moreover, the presence of coercive instruments and sanctions can significantly
influence compliance with flood management policies. Metz and Glaus (2019) argue
that such mechanisms can steer stakeholders towards desired outcomes, enhancing
the overall effectiveness of institutional frameworks.
In recent years, the Philippines has faced increasing challenges related to flooding,
necessitating a reevaluation of its flood management policies and institutional
frameworks. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council
(NDRRMC) has been pivotal in coordinating disaster response and preparedness
efforts, marking a significant shift towards formalizing community involvement in
disaster management (Esteban, 2022). This institutional framework aims to
enhance the resilience of communities against the frequent and severe flooding
events that characterize the archipelago.
The importance of community-based disaster management (CBDM) approaches has
been underscored by Santos (2020), who argues that local engagement is crucial for
building resilience. By empowering communities to take an active role in disaster
preparedness and response, the Philippines can leverage local knowledge and
practices, which are essential for effective flood management. This perspective
aligns with the findings of Rocha et al. (2021), who highlight the interconnectedness
of health crises and natural disasters, emphasizing the need for integrated disaster
response strategies that consider the unique vulnerabilities of local populations.
Moreover, the role of intergovernmental cooperation is critical in enhancing the
effectiveness of flood management policies. Ilhami (2023) advocates for a
collaborative governance framework that facilitates coordination among various
levels of government and community actors. This approach is vital in a country
where local governments often face resource constraints and require support from
national agencies to implement effective flood risk management strategies. By
fostering collaboration, the Philippines can create a more cohesive response to
flooding, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and that local needs are
addressed.
Technological Innovations in Flood Risk Management
GIS has emerged as a crucial tool in flood management, enabling planners and
emergency responders to visualize flood hazards and vulnerabilities effectively.
Atanga and Tankpa (2022) emphasize that geospatial analysis facilitates the
identification of suitable emergency evacuation sites, particularly in urban areas
prone to flooding. This capability is further supported by Lummen et al. (2016), who
highlight the importance of simulations and real-time data in illustrating flood risks
and the potential consequences of inadequate flood risk reduction measures. By
prioritizing highland areas above flood risk zones, GIS enhances the strategic
planning of evacuation routes and emergency services, ensuring that communities
are better equipped to handle flood events.
The integration of real-time data and predictive modeling significantly enhances the
responsiveness of emergency services during floods. Zhang et al. (2022) emphasize
that utilizing real-time information allows emergency responders to adapt to
changing conditions, ensuring timely interventions. This capability is critical in
urban settings where transportation networks may be disrupted, complicating
access to emergencies and medical facilities. Complementing this, Xu et al. (2023)
highlights the potential of big data analytics in predictive flood risk monitoring,
which can significantly improve community preparedness and response. By
leveraging predictive modeling and real-time data, authorities can anticipate flood
events and mobilize resources more effectively, ultimately saving lives and reducing
property damage.
The advent of big data has transformed flood risk monitoring and situational
awareness, allowing for more informed decision-making. Xu et al. (2023) discuss
how big data analytics can enhance community preparedness by analyzing vast
amounts of data from various sources, including weather patterns and historical
flood events. This proactive approach enables local governments to implement
targeted interventions that enhance resilience against flooding. Additionally,
Cayamanda and Paunlagui (2020) emphasize the importance of community
engagement in disaster risk reduction, arguing that local knowledge and
participation are vital for developing effective flood management strategies. By
combining big data insights with community input, stakeholders can create more
tailored and effective flood response plans.
Innovative technologies such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS) are also making
significant contributions to flood management. Giannitsopoulos et al. (2022)
propose the use of UAS for rapid flood mapping and situational awareness,
providing real-time imagery and data during flood events. This capability allows
emergency responders to assess the situation quickly and allocate resources where
they are most needed. Complementing this, Mata et al. (2022) suggest that
satellite-based monitoring techniques, such as those utilizing Google Earth Engine
(GEE), can enhance post-disaster recovery efforts by providing accurate
assessments of flood extents. Together, UAS and satellite monitoring technologies
improve decision-making processes and enhance overall emergency response
efforts.
Scope and Limitation of the Study
This study examined the flood response program of Barangay San Miguel, Santo
Tomas, Davao del Norte, aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the
community's experiences and perceptions regarding flood management strategies.
Employing a qualitative case study approach, we gathered data from March to April
2024, focusing on the insights of six purposively selected participants, including
barangay officials, local responders, barangay health workers, and residents. This
diverse range of participants enabled us to capture a holistic view of the flood
response efforts.
While this study offers valuable insights, several limitations must be acknowledged.
First, the qualitative nature of the research means that the findings may not be
generalizable to other barangays or regions with different socio-economic contexts
or flood response frameworks. The purposive selection of participants, while aimed
at ensuring relevant perspectives, may also limit the diversity of experiences
captured. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data introduces the potential for
biases, as participants’ perceptions of the effectiveness of the flood response
program may vary based on their individual experiences. Furthermore, the study's
timeframe may not fully encompass the range of community responses to flooding
events over an extended period.
Significance of the Study
This study was beneficial to the following individuals and groups:
Local Government Unit (LGU). The findings of this study can assist policymakers
in designing more effective, community-centered strategies for disaster response
and mitigation. By understanding the specific challenges and needs of flood-prone
areas like Barangay San Miguel, government agencies can develop targeted policies
that enhance both preparedness and resilience, ensuring that resources and support
are strategically allocated to reduce the impact of flooding.
Residents. Gaining insights into the experiences of locals enables the development
of stronger support systems and interventions that address both immediate and
long-term needs. This study can inform initiatives that aid in recovery, build
preparedness for future events, and enhance psychological resilience, ultimately
improving the quality of life for affected residents.
Students. This study provides a real-world perspective on the impact of natural
disasters, enriching their understanding of disaster management, resilience, and
community response. It encourages a practical application of disaster preparedness
concepts and fosters a sense of social responsibility, particularly for those
interested in careers in public service or environmental sciences.
Future Researchers. This study can serve as a valuable foundation for future
researchers exploring the socio-economic and emotional impacts of flooding on
communities. It highlights the complexities of disaster response and community
resilience, offering insights that can guide further investigations into effective
strategies for minimizing the economic damage and hardships faced by flood-
affected areas.
Definition of Terms
To clarify the key concepts used throughout this study, the following definitions are
provided. These terms are essential in understanding the scope and focus of the
research on community-led responses to flooding and the resilience of local
residents in navigating these crises.
Community-Led Flood Response. According to (Halim et al. 2024), this refers to
Community-led flood response refers to a disaster management approach that
emphasizes local community involvement in decision-making, utilizing their unique
knowledge and resources to enhance preparedness, response, and recovery efforts,
ultimately improving resilience and reducing vulnerability to flooding. This term
refers to actions and strategies initiated, organized, and carried out by local
residents and community members in response to flooding. A community-led
response emphasizes grassroots involvement, where residents collaborate to
address immediate needs, implement flood mitigation measures, and support each
other through recovery efforts. This approach highlights the role of local knowledge,
resources, and cooperation in building community resilience against flood impacts.
Sailing Through the Deluge. This phrase metaphorically represents navigating or
managing a crisis or overwhelming situation, specifically used in this study to
describe the efforts and resilience of a community in coping with severe flooding.
"Sailing" implies guided or collective movement, while "deluge" refers to a heavy
flood or downpour, symbolizing the intense challenges brought by the flooding.