COMMUNICATION BASELINE STUDY AS DATA SOURCE FOR DESIGNING A COMMUNICATION PLAN FOR FLOOD DISASTER PREPAREDNESS OF STAKEHOLDERS IN LIBON, ALBAY, PHILIPPINES

Ms. Jimilyn O. Gerobin (Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Libon, Albay)

This study was conducted to collect data as basis for designing a communication plan on flood disaster preparedness in Pantao – the largest and most frequently flooded barangay in Libon. It aimed to (1) Describe the socio-demographic characteristics of the study participants; (2) Determine the current situation of flood preparedness in Libon, Albay; (3) Find out the respondents’ information needs, information-seeking behavior, and media preferences; (4) Determine the respondents’ knowledge, attitude, and practices on flood preparedness; and (5) Identify the key components of the communication plan.

It utilized quantitative and qualitative research approaches through a researcher-administered survey and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The survey respondents were determined using stratified random sampling while the FGD participants were purposely selected. Actionable Risk Communication Model was used as research framework.

The respondents have positive attitude towards flood preparedness however, there are issues on lack of flood preparedness information, structures and equipment, and plans and programs. Hence, communication planning should focus on disseminating actionable information and planning workshops for community leaders. The residents comply with flood preparedness instructions given by the barangay council, contradictory to the premise of Actionable Risk Communication Model that politicians are not the most effective risk communicator and motivator.

POWERPOINT PRESENTATION