A. Hazard Identification
Loreto is at high risk and vulnerable to hazards due to its geographical location and the presence of livelihood sources in the hazard zone. The irregular and unpredictable conditions brought about by climate change makes Loreto at risk for disasters. Its vulnerability stems from the complacency of the community due to low level of awareness and participation in community planning. The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) of Loreto has identified 4 natural hazards, 2 human-induced hazards and 1 health hazard.
As shown in the table above, probability and impact ratings of the hazards, flood is t he highest based on the hazard profile and ranking conducted, followed by Earthquake , Epidemic and Armed-Comflict, and landslide, typhoon and fire as the lowest.a1 The Municipality experiences flood about 5 times a year during the rainy season but the biggest flood events occured in the year 1982, 1986 and 2013. The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) has also observed a rising trend in flash flood events over the years.a1 Loreto is highly sensitive to flooding. Out of the total population, 29% are exposed to flooding with varying degrees of exposure as follows: very high exposure – 4%, high exposure – 11%, moderate exposure – 9%, low exposure – 3%, and very low exposure – 2%. Agricultural areas and road networks are the most exposed to flood hazards in proportion to total area while land use and forest production areas are the least exposed in proportion to total area. However, the total land use area exposed is the largest among all categories at 123.40sq.km. and also the largest area with very high exposure to flood hazard at 444.83 sq. km. (Agusan del Sur Updated PDPFP), 2008-2017).
A. Action Taken
- Disseminate information and raise public awareness about Flood Hazards.
- Installation of Early Warnings Signage's
- Acquisition of Warning Siren
- Acquisition of Rescue Vehicle
- Acquisition of water rescue gears and PPE's
- Conduct training on Water Safety and Rescue