Disaster Risk Reduction Management Practices in Udangan, La Paz, Abra

This study examines Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) management practices in Udangan, La Paz, Abra, with a specific focus on the roles of gender, community planning, leadership, communication, and evacuation centers. The goal is to identify the strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential growth within the community’s Disaster Risk Reduction framework to enhance overall resilience against disasters. Employing a descriptive research design and correlation techniques, the study assesses the profiles of Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Committee (BDRRMC) members and their corresponding Disaster Risk Reduction management practices. It also investigates the relationship between respondents’ profiles and the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Committee’s practices and the significant differences between their profiles. Data were collected using survey questionnaires from the Barangay officials, Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials, Barangay Nutritionist Station Officer (BNS), the Barangay Health Emergency and Response Team/ Barangay Health Workers (BHERTs/BHW), the Barangay Police Action Team (BPATs) and other stakeholders. The findings indicate that while disaster preparedness and response management are highly practiced, disaster management, mitigation, and recovery areas require further improvement. Significant relationships were identified between the respondents’ educational attainment and relevant training and the effectiveness of DRR practices. The study recommends targeted training initiatives, continuous professional development, and inclusive recruitment to enhance the community’s overall disaster resilience.