Disaster Risk Reduction Management Barangay Interview

Interviewee: JUDE THADDEUS G. PAAT (Barangay Secretary of Barangay Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City and Member of the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Organization)

According to Mr. Paat, Disaster Risk Reduction Management in Barangay Guadalupe Nuevo is done yearly and it was mandated by the law. The Barangay is also exposed to hazards such as earthquake, fire and even flood. Its vulnerability is that it is near The West Valley Fault and that fire often occurs during summer.  Only the areas in San Jose are exposed to flood while the rest, due to high elevation, are not affected. "Makati City is very much prepared", Mr. Paat added. The Barangay officials were coordinating with other barangays within the vicinity of Makati.  

On the issue of the possible occurrence of the “Big One” or the earthquake in the Philippines, Mr. Paat said that the Barangay conducted two earthquake drills for this year, and this includes the National Earthquake Drill that were also conducted in private and public schools in Makati. The people were also given a chance to know their possible evacuation areas. He also mentioned that the plans of the barangay in safeguarding the people will not be successful if the people will not cooperate. 

Although the Barangay Secretary did not mention about the barangay projects for different sectors, he rest assured that everyone will be given equal help in times of need. He even showed the Barangay Guadalupe Nuevo’s Disaster Risk Reduction Management plan for 2015-2019, and it includes the map of the areas that at risk when it comes to natural disasters.

When he was asked regarding how fast the barangay responds to these disasters (such as fire) he explained that the first alarm, only the fire fighters are to be in the area.  The second alarm, the barangay officials including its volunteers (Barangay Guadalupe Nuevo Rescue Team) are to lend a hand.

After the occurrence of a disaster, the Barangay prepares an after incident report which will be submitted to the Makati Social Welfare Department. The said department, after receiving the incident report, will conduct a deliberation of what they will be doing to the people affected by the calamity. Hence, through this, they will be able to release any help may it be in kind or in cash.