Disaster Preparedness of Local Government Units Communication Systems in Catanduanes, Philippines

Abstract

This study assesses the communication capabilities of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Catanduanes and to develop findings on the current communication systems that will address the information needs of their constituents more particularly when the usual communications fails during the times of disasters. All Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) uses the small messaging system (SMS) or cellular phones in gathering and disseminating disaster-related information. A handful of MDRRMO do not use VHF Radio and all of them use early warning systems to disseminate information to their respective communities. The transmission and receiving of disaster-related information are being acquired through cellular phones. The study concludes the inadequacy in the LGU Communications System Facilities and the readiness for deployment in case of the strong typhoon on the province when the existing communication facilities are disrupted, particularly the Internet and SMS technologies. Some municipalities have not identified what communications systems to use in case there is a total communication failure during disasters. Some municipalities will request the services of Amateur Radio for assistance. Some will request private radio users to relay information in case normal communication fails. Some Municipalities have not invested in or allocated a budget for communications systems facilities. Finally, this study recommends that an annual budget for the communications system must be restored under the MDRRMO to ensure the serviceability of existing communications facilities and equipment. And equip the LGU with the low cost and modest communication facilities to respond in times of disaster.