TRAINING NEEDS ASSESSMENT OF SCHOOL DISASTER RISK REDUCTION AND MANAGEMENT (DRRM) COORDINATORS OF THE SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE OF ALBAY

This study aims to determine the training needs of the school Disaster Risk Reduction and Management coordinators of the Schools Division Office of Albay. This study was conducted in the 556 public elementary and secondary schools of the division of Albay for School Year 2024-2025. This research employed multi-method research design and a self-formulated survey- questionnaire and interview guide as the main instruments for quantitative and qualitative data collection. The researcher used the Purposive Sampling technique for the conduct of this research. The study revealed that SDO Albay has been implementing a DRRM training program for several years but faces challenges like overlapping activities and heavy workloads, centrally-identified training programs, limited financial, logistical, technical and stakeholder support, frequent turnover of position, and inadequate training venues and facilities. Significant gaps in training programs emphasize the need for continuous, targeted and comprehensive capacity-building for school DRRM coordinators, covering life-saving skills, emergency preparedness, safety, and mental health to address all aspects of disaster management. Effective DRRM trainings requires additional manpower, financial, technical, logistical, and community support. The developed DRRM training program is highly recommended to serve as framework for future trainings for school coordinators.