intensified due to increased impermeable areas, loss of forest cover, changes in land use, rapid urbanization, increased population, removal and alteration of natural drainage features, increased storm water volumes and increased peaks. With a population of five million, almost half of whom live below poverty line, there is a pressing challenge for all Bicolanos to implement disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation measures. Mainstreaming DRR/CCA in local development planning is imperative. Efforts to shift from flood control to flood mitigation were pursued in the Bicol River Basin and Watershed Management Project. The CCA and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management laws emphasize the need for increased preparedness and adaptation measures, rather than just response mechanisms. This requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders in building effective DRR/CCA institutions and capacities at the barangay, municipal, city and provincial levels. Objective To achieve zero casualty and minimum damage to property during emergencies and disasters Strategies 1.
Provide technical assistance to LGUs in mainstreaming DRR and CCA in local development planning. Ensure that all LGUs complete their DRR/CCA-enhanced CLUPs and PDPFPs.
2.
Maximize the use of information technology tools such as GIS, remote sensing, REDAS and the SimCLIM software in hazard mapping, risk identification, and vulnerability assessment.
3.
Enhance the capability of communities, LGUs, and concerned agencies in all aspects of disaster risk management, i.e, mitigation, preparedness, response and rehabilitation.
4.
Establish DRR/CCA training institutions and include disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation in the school curriculum. Increase public awareness on DRR/CCA measures.
5.
Provide safe and well equipped evacuation shelters with programs and services responsive to the psycho-social needs of the internally displaced persons. Ensure that hospitals can effectively deliver health services during disasters.
6.
Conduct massive tree planting and reforestation. Promote the establishment of eco-parks and urban gardens.
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