DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 21 February)—Dabawenyos believe that barangays in this city should improve on disaster response efforts to deal with calamities more effectively, according to a survey conducted by the University of Mindanao’s Institute of Popular Opinion (UM-IPO).
During “Wednesdays Media Forum at Habi at Kape,” Dr. John Vianne Murcia, UM-IPO director, said that at least 52.1 percent of the respondents surveyed believe that barangays are moderately prepared for disasters.
He said this figure suggests that there is a “moderate level of confidence in local disaster preparedness strategies” among the Dabawenyos across the city’s 282 barangays, necessitating “continuous improvement and community engagement.”
The survey, conducted from January 25 to February 10, 2024, was administered on 1,200 respondents.
Murcia said the survey was conducted to assess if Dabawenyos are satisfied with how the local government units and the barangays dealt with the recent disasters like flooding and earthquakes.
He added that barangays need to step up efforts to educate the public on proper disaster response as some Dabawenyos surveyed expressed that they do not know what to do in case a natural calamity occurs despite their “learned knowledge” from drills.
Murcia also suggests strengthening barangay-level services during calamities and post-disaster recovery services as it would improve the satisfaction of the Dabawenyos with the city’s overall disaster management response efforts.
He said that of the respondents surveyed, 75.6% indicate that they are satisfied with the city government’s disaster response, 68.1% are satisfied with evacuation plans, 66.4% satisfied with organized relief operations, 68.1% satisfied with health services, 66.4% satisfied with law enforcement, and 62.9% satisfied with post-disaster services.
Murcia said the findings reflect a strong approval of the city government’s efforts in disaster management but, at the same time, suggest areas where further enhancements can be made.
“The high satisfaction rates with the city government’s disaster response efforts are commendable and indicative of effective management and communication,” he said.
It added that respondents indicate a “need for more comprehensive support in recovery, particularly in mental health services, recovery resource information, livelihood programs, and improved disaster mitigation plans.”
“This highlights an opportunity for more holistic post-disaster recovery planning and support,” he said. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)
