About cdrrmo

Disaster risk management encompasses the implementation of policies and strategies

designed to prevent the emergence of new disaster risks, reduce existing vulnerabilities, and

oversee residual risks. This collective effort serves to bolster resilience and minimize the overall

impact of disasters. Through a systematic Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM)

approach, it becomes feasible to identify, assess, and mitigate the risks associated with disasters.

This approach is a pivotal strategy for achieving sustainable development, as it not only

enhances resilience but also mitigates potential disaster risks. Moreover, in the era of climate

change, where climate emergencies are escalating on a global scale with increased velocity, the

DRRM approach has become an indispensable component. Given these reasons, the actions of

prevention and preparedness emerge as essential elements capable of alleviating the aftermath of

disasters. Hence, it becomes imperative for stakeholders to extend their focus beyond post-

disaster management.

In recent decades, the world has witnessed an increase in the frequency and severity of

natural and man-made disasters, underscoring the imperative for effective disaster risk reduction

and management (DRRM) strategies at local levels. Cities, as centers of population,

infrastructure, and economic activity, are particularly vulnerable to these hazards. Recognizing

this vulnerability, cities have established Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices

(DRRMOs) to enhance their preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts.

Geography

Legazpi is the regional center and largest city of the Bicol Region, in terms of population.

Legazpi City is positioned in the southeastern region of Luzon Island, Philippines. Its
geographical coordinates place it along the coastline of the Albay Gulf, with a proximity to the

Pacific Ocean. The city's strategic location grants it both advantages and challenges due to its

coastal orientation. In terms of topography, Legazpi City exhibits a diverse landscape. It

encompasses coastal lowlands along the shoreline and gradually transitions into hilly and

mountainous terrain as it moves inland. This varied topography poses unique opportunities and

risks for the city. The coastal lowlands provide accessibility to maritime activities and trade,

contributing to economic development. On the other hand, the hilly and mountainous areas,

particularly in the vicinity of Mayon Volcano, present challenges such as vulnerability to

landslides, erosion, and limited space for urban expansion.

Due to its geographical location, Legazpi City faces an array of natural hazards. These include

volcanic activity from Mayon Volcano, which can result in ashfall, lava flows, and lahars

triggered by heavy rainfall. The city is also vulnerable to typhoons with strong winds, heavy

rainfall, and storm surges, as well as earthquakes due to its proximity to the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Steep terrain and heavy rainfall can further lead to floods and landslides, particularly in hilly

areas.

legal basis

Republic Act No. 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act

of 2010 (DRRM Act) is a law which outlines the establishment, organization, and functions of

disaster risk reduction and management offices at various levels, including city and municipal

levels. The government shifts its focus from disaster response to disaster risk reduction (DRR).

This puts more emphasis on strengthening people’s capacity to absorb stress, maintain basic

functions during a disaster and bounce back better from disasters.

 Under Section 21 of RA 10121, there is an annual appropriation in the General

Appropriations Act (national budget) for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management

Fund (NDRRMF), previously referred to as the "Calamity Fund." This fund is intended to

support disaster risk reduction and management programs and projects at various levels,

including those carried out by LGUs and accredited local community organizations

http://downloads.caraga.dilg.gov.ph/Disaster%20Preparedness/DRRM%20Act%20Primer.pdf

Purpose of the study

The purpose of this study is to assess and evaluate the capability of the City Disaster Risk

Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) in Legazpi City. The study aims to

comprehensively examine and evaluate the governance structure, composition, functions, and

funding sources of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) in Legazpi

City. Additionally, the study aims to assess the effectiveness and coverage of the disaster risk

reduction management programs implemented by the CDRRMO, focusing on aspects such as

hazard and risk management, community resiliency, and preparedness initiatives. Furthermore,

the study seeks to analyze the capabilities of the individuals responsible for implementing these

programs and identify any best practices employed to ensure the sustained and successful

execution of disaster risk reduction management efforts in Legazpi City.

 The primary purpose of this study is to comprehensively assess the capabilities of the

City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) in Legazpi City. The

researchers’ specific objectives encompass a thorough evaluation of the CDRRMO's personnel

expertise, technological infrastructure, policy frameworks, and public awareness initiatives. This

research holds significant importance as it directly contributes to the enhancement of the city's

disaster resilience and management strategies. By identifying strengths, weaknesses,

opportunities, and threats within the CDRRMO's operational framework, this study aims to

provide actionable recommendations for strengthening the office's effectiveness in addressing the

complex challenges posed by various natural hazards. Ultimately, the insights garnered from this

research have the potential to inform policy-makers, urban planners, and disaster management

practitioners in Legazpi City, aiding them in making informed decisions that safeguard lives,

property, and the environment, while fostering sustainable urban development in the face of

evolving disaster risks

examines the disaster resilience management initiatives in Legazpi, Tabaco, and Ligao cities

within Albay Province. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of these cities' disaster risk

reduction management projects, assess the capabilities of implementers, identify challenges

faced, highlight best practices, and measure the impact of the programs on community resiliency.

Through a qualitative-quantitative approach involving surveys and discussions, the study reveals

the importance of City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (CDRRMOs) in

enhancing disaster response capabilities, as well as the significance of disaster awareness,

preparedness, and environmental protection in achieving resilient communities.

The study by Cesar Arao shares similarities with our study in terms of assessing disaster

resilience management programs within Albay Province. While Arao's study specifically focuses

on the cities of Legazpi, Tabaco, and Ligao, our research targets the capabilities of the City

Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) in Legazpi City. Both studies

examine disaster risk reduction and management efforts, including governance, awareness,

preparedness, and response. Arao's findings about the enhancement of disaster-resilient

communities through the establishment of CDRRMOs and the challenges faced in terms of

personnel and cooperation align with our study's broader goal of enhancing disaster resilience

strategies in urban settings.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Future Researchers. This study can act as a foundation upon which they can build more in-

depth investigations. Inspiring future researchers to explore specific facets of disaster risk

reduction, evaluate recommended strategies, and compare findings across different areas. By

building on the existing knowledge and recommendations, they can contribute to the continuous

improvement of disaster management practices and policies.

City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO). The study can help

identify areas for improvement, enabling the office to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness in

disaster risk reduction efforts.

City Government and Local Authorities. The findings of the study will offer essential

direction to the municipal government and local officials, aiding them in making well-informed

choices regarding resource allocation, policy development, and the improvement of disaster

readiness and response approaches.

Residents. The study's outcomes can enhance community awareness and understanding of

potential risks, empowering residents to be better prepared and actively participate in disaster

prevention and response initiatives.

The study's findings can be incorporated into the educational programs of the schools, colleges,

and universities in the region to encourage a culture of preparedness for disasters and resilience

among future generations.