Philippine E-Journals

Exploring the Disaster Management of Teachers and Pupils in Iligan City, Philippines

Roberto Napere Jr. | Oliva P. Canencia

Discipline: Ecology

 

Abstract:

With the geologic location and physical characteristics of the Philippines, it is being considered as one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Disasters occurring in the country can be natural or human-induced (NDRRMC, 2011). Certainly, when there is a disaster, school children are the most vulnerable. The study examined the disaster management trainings attended by the teachers and their capability level in managing natural and human-induced disasters. It also explored the pupils’ knowledge, attitudes and behavior about disaster management. Employing descriptive research design, 200 teachers and 300 pupils in the public central schools in Iligan City served as respondents. Survey questionnaires were used in data gathering and were treated using frequency counts, means, percentages and correlation procedure. Results reveal that almost all of the teachers did not have trainings on disaster management and yet, they are capable in managing the identified disasters. Meanwhile, the pupils posted a good remark on their knowledge, attitudes and behavior about disaster management. The two powerful typhoons Sendong (Tropical Storm Washi) and Pablo (Tropical Storm Bopha) left a learned lesson to the people in Iligan City not to be complacent in any disasters. The study recommend for a full institutionalization of disaster management to all schools to protect the school personnel, pupils, and educational facilities.