Guidebook for Effective Disaster Reporting on CAMANAVA NEWS
Philippine copyright ⓒ 2025
Published by the City of Malabon University Pampano cor., Maya-Maya Sts., Longos, Malabon https://cityofmalabonuniversity.edu.ph
For permission contact
ODRALIM D. VILLAREZ
City of Malabon University 202200039@cityofmalabonuniversity.edu.ph
Layout and typesetting by Jay Ferson B. Comitan
For all journalists, local government communicators, page admins, and everyday community reporters who go live, post updates, and share alerts when disasters strike. Whether you ’ re holding a mic or just your phone this guidebook is for you.
Title Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Copyright Page
Dedication
Table of Contents
Praise for the Researchers
Foreword
Introduction
Understanding Disaster Reporting on Facebook
Textual and Content Analysis of Effective Disaster Reporting
Addressing Challenges in Disaster Reporting
Guidelines for Writing and Publishing Disaster Reports
Social Media Engagement Strategies
Crisis Communication Plan for CAMANAVA News
Sample Templates for Disaster Reporting
Conclusion
PRAISE FOR THE GUIDEBOOK
This guidebook echoes the hard work, critical thinking, and concerted research of journalism students who addressed a real-time and essential topic about disaster communication in the digital era. By centering this guidebook on CAMANAVA areas, the researchers have expressed a depth comprehension of how local media can frame the public awareness and understanding while impacting the resiliency within the community amid crisis. The combination of logical recommendations, content analysis, and textual analysis in this guidebook offers both practical and pedagogical resources from journalists or media practitioners, local government units (LGUs), and disaster agencies. The pen-pusher has set an excellent example of how student researchers can bestow meaningfully to the community through modernism, analysis, and service
It is my pride that I commend the authors and the student researchers of this guidebook. May this work serve as a flare for future research and reporting initiatives designed at bolstering communities through truthful, timely, and good-natured journalism.
Prof. Alfonso Delos Santos Professor, Research in Journalism City of Malabon University
FOREWORD
It is with great purpose and pride that we make an appearance at the Guidebook for Effective Disaster Reporting on the CAMANAVA News Facebook Page, which is a fruit of months of hard work, coordination, and soulful dedication to serve the community through journalism.
As student journalists, authors, and researchers of this study, we encountered in a first-hand experience the enormous potential of social media in framing how communities react to crisis. This guidebook was bring out to this world because of our desire to make a difference in making the disaster reporting timely, accurate, and human through utilzing textual and content analysis, framing theory, insights from subject matter expert and key informant interviews, we, the researchers identified the best practices and gaps in present communication techniques.
This guidebook is not just for school requirements, it is a tool, a resource, and most of all, a commitment our commitment to using journalism as a force for good. May these materials serve as a compass for present and future disaster reporters, aiding them in navigating the urgency and responsibility that comes with informing the public during life-threatening situations.
On behalf of our team, thank you to our professor, respondents, and the community of Malab f ti thi deavor. Together, let us continue to build a sa iety.
Odralim O. Villarez
We are four journalism students from the City of Malabon University blockmates who’ve shared the same classrooms, projects, sleepless nights, and now, this guidebook. Living and studying in Malabon, we’re no strangers to floods. Every year, it’s the same story typhoons roll in, water levels rise, classes get suspended, and communities brace for damage. It’s just part of life here. projects, sleepless nights, and now, this guidebook. Living studying in Malabon, we’re no strangers to floods. Every year, it’s the same story typhoons roll in, water levels rise, classes get suspended, and communities brace for damage. It’s just part of life here.
But it wasn’t until Typhoon Carina hit in July 2024 that we truly saw how deep the impact of disasters could be not just in terms of damage, but in how people were left confused, misinformed, or unheard. We saw Facebook flooded (pun intended) with posts, updates, and questions. Some were helpful. Others were just noise.
We asked ourselves: Are we really communicating clearly during disasters? Are the stories being told helping people, or just stirring panic?
That question became our thesis. We studied CAMANAVA News’ Facebook disaster coverage from 2019 to 2024, using framing theory to understand how disaster news is told and how it shapes people’s reactions. Through that research, we realized something: Disaster reporting needs to be more than just quick. It needs to be clear, accurate, ethical, and human.
That’s how this thesis, and eventually, this guidebook, was born.
This isn’t just a student requirement it’s a practical tool. A field guide for disaster reporting in the digital era, designed for journalists, LGU communicators, student journos, and anyone else using Facebook to inform the public during emergencies.
The purpose of this guidebook is to:
1.Help disaster communicators like journalists, local government units (LGUs), and community page admins craft posts that are clear, responsible, and empathetic.
2.Provide practical strategies, checklists, and templates to guide disaster reporting before, during, and after an emergency, with a particular focus on social media.
Let’s face it: everyone turns to Facebook during a crisis. Whether it’s for emergency updates, evacuation routes, or just to check if school’s canceled, social media is where people get their news.
That’s why reporting on social media during disasters is really important. A single post can either calm people down or make things worse. An accurate update can save lives, while a misleading one can cause panic.
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NDERSTANDINGU ISASTERD EPORTING R
LNO ACEBOOK
F
ocal news outlets play a huge role in times of disaster preparedness, people throughout social media use it as their guideguide and their life-saving information by just one click on their phone. In the Philippine setting, particularly in CAMANAVA (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela), residents here use “CAMANAVA News” as their source of information and local news updates. With the help of Facebook it rapidly disseminates updates including warnings, government advisories and relief operations, and it serves as the bridge between the residents of CAMANAVA from the local government unit’s operations during and after the disaster.
In a context, a big storm coming in your area– what would you check first? Oftentimes , people tend to check their phones and direct them into their Facebook to look for updates from their trusted local pages. Just like a study conducted by the Ateneo de Manila University School of Government in 2021, claiming that 79% of Filipinos often gather their news from Facebook which exceeds the percentage among people who use traditional sources (television and newspapers) as their tool for information.
This shows that during events like typhoons or floods, Filipinos chooses Facebook as their real-time updates in crucial times.
How Local Media Helps:
Early Warnings - It tells the public whether there is an upcoming typhoons and floods especially in barangays that are flood prone.
Safety Tips - Not just the “Do’s and Don'ts” but as well as the Evacuation area that are nearby
Regular Updates - It includes that real-time reports about road condition, power outages, evacuation area, and flood monitoring
(Including Dam Operations)
Public Trust - Local news also builds community trust by covering during emergencies
LGU Responses - Releasing LGU responses such as relief operation, evacuation areas, and clean-up operations drives the public to be more engage and updated
Calling out Rescuers - Using Facebook it is easier for Local media outlets to locate residents who are requesting for help, such as rescue operations, donation, or calling for volunteers.
Ethical Guidelines When Reporting Disasters on Facebook
Am I reporting it the right way?
When it comes to posting disaster news, journalists should be Extra careful. You have to always ask yourself “Am I reporting it the right way?” Disaster reporting is not just about “The first one to post” you have to consider being “Right and Respectful”
Remember, what you’re writing is about victims of disaster, do not cause panic or pressure on their current situation. Instead write in straight and factual information and still consider the victims of disaster.
What are the things you need to consider:
Tell the Truth - The 5ws (Who,What, Where, When, Why) and 1h (How) still matters even in Disaster reporting, your o readers wants a straight to the point fact and wants to know the
happening in real-time events, never guess nor exaggerate details to make your story exciting or emotionally appealing to your readers.
Instead of writing this... Write it this way…
"Thousands are already dead!" (without official confirmation)
"The entire barangay Longos was destroyed by the typhoon!" (overstating damage)
"This is the worst disaster in history!" (no comparison data)
"Everyone in the CAMANAVA area has lost their homes!" (blanket statement)
"Rescue teams have given up!" (exaggerated claim)
"The Local Government Disaster management team are still assessing the situation; confirmed deaths are yet to be announced."
"The typhoon caused significant damage in l barangays Longos; assessments are ongoing "
"Officials are stating that it is one of the most damaging storms in recent years."
"Many homes have been reported damaged; exact numbers are being verified "
"Rescue teams continue their operations despite challenges caused by the weather."
Privacy of Victims and Affected People - Visual materials are included in posting disaster reporting such as publication materials, short video clips, and photos are included. However there are limitations in posting these details and things you need to consider in respecting privacy regarding on visual materials and information that you will use in your disaster reporting.
Instead of: You can:
Posting photos of injured people without their consent
Use a wide and distant shot that shows the rescue operation instead on focusing on the face or identity of the victim.
Instead of: You can:
Revealing the identity of dead bodies by showing their face in flooded areas and including sensational captions.
Posting of grieving families or victims of disaster without asking their permission
Avoid
Focus on responders that were helping the communities, not the bodies.
Release an update about relief operations and rescue operations without specifically identifying individuals
Creating Panic - Avoid using words that will cause panic to the public, tell facts calmly and carefully choose words, because scary Headlines will not help, instead it will cause alarm and fear to the public.
Instead of writing this... Write it this way…
"The CAMANAVA is doomed!"
"You will not survive unless you leave NOW!"
"Local government authorities have issued an evacuation advisory for flood prone and lowlying areas."
"Residents in critical areas are advised to evacuate immediately for safety."
"Disease outbreak is unstoppable after flood!"
"There’s NO HOPE everything is destroyed!"
"Massive looting everywhere!" (without proof)
"Health officials remind residents to avoid flood water exposure "
"Relief efforts are ongoing; residents are encouraged to stay strong as recovery begins."
"Authorities are monitoring any incidents Residents are encouraged to stay alert and report suspicious activities " (You can include Hotlines that the residents can contact when needed)
Double Check Information
- At times during disaster, wrong information easily spreads, as a Journalist makes sure you always check your information before posting it. You can coordinate with the Local Government officials to avoid mistakes in releasing information. Remember you have to be extra careful because you are reporting about lives and safety of the public.
1.Relay on PAGASA in monitoring weather conditions and updates if there will be another storm or upcoming in the said area.
2.Ask authorities in reporting damage area, for you for to have an accurate scale of the said damage
3.Check the official DepEd announcement for specific class suspensions in your area and as well as the resuming of class.
4.Ensuring the videos and photos are from reliable sources that show the current situation, or instead the visual material that you will use are personally captured by you or your team.
5.Gather relief distribution updates by LGUs (local government units) announcement only, to avoid confusion to the public.
The impact of framing on public awareness
Framing is the way of presenting news and how it was structured. It serves as how the public understands and responds to a disaster. Often disaster news uses emotional and sensational framing to gather the affection of the public about their perception, urgency and behavior. Also, logical, fact-based framing tends to generate more approval and rational engagement, while emotionally charged content, particularly negative frames, increases sharing but can distort public understanding.
What is Framing?
It is how the reporters choose their materials in telling the story (words, photos, videos, pubmats) does the public make them feel
calm, angry, scared, hopeful.
Two types of Frames:
Emotional Frames: it focuses on the feeling of the audience, this type of story rapidly spreads of Facebook because it is emotionally appealing and gives compassion towards the readers that made the share this types of stories.
Example: “Mang Ambo, Loses his son due to typhoon”
Logical Frames: Facts are more relevant, it also helps the public to understand the situation and helps them to prepare wisely.
Example: “Typhoon Carina damages 100 homes in Barangay Baritan”
Facebook and local media become lifelines during crises. News outlets and reporters are doing more than just "telling stories"; they are assisting people in rebuilding, surviving, and being resilient.
The goal is simple but powerful:
Tell the truth, uphold dignity, and guide the public toward safety.
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T
EXTUAL &
C NALYSISA
ONTENT
FO FFECTIVEE ISASTERD EPORTING R
In this section, we’ll take a deep dive into the textual and content analysis of disaster coverage, based on our study of CAMANAVA News. We’ll explore how posts are crafted looking at things like language, structure, tone, and framing and how different types of content are used. News. We’ll explore how posts are crafted looking at things like language, structure, tone, and framing and how different types of content are used.
Our aim is simple: to understand what makes disaster posts effective, what doesn’t work, and how communicators, especially on social media, can improve their messages.
If you’re someone who shares or writes disaster updates, this guide will offer useful tools and insights to help you communicate more clearly and responsibly when emergencies happen.
Identifying Reliable Sources for Disaster News - In times of disaster, false information spreads fast especially on Facebook. That’s why the first step to writing effective disaster updates is verifying your source.
Here’s what counts as reliable:
Official government agencies
Recognized media outlets
Community-based updates
PAGASA, NDRRMC, PHIVOLCS, DOST, MMDA, LGU pages like Malabon DRRMO
ABS-CBN, GMA News, Rappler, Manila Bulettin, etc
Only if backed by evidence (e.g., clear photos/videos + time and location)
Tips:
1.Always cross-check breaking info.
2.Don’t rely on screenshots or forwarded messages.
3.Use timestamps when reposting info from official pages.
TANDAAN: “Palaging i-double check ang content na nakikita online.”
Structuring News Posts: Clarity, Accuracy, and Timeliness - A disaster post is effective when readers can understand what’s happening, where, and what they should do in just a few seconds.
Use the CAT Principle:
Clarity
Accuracy
Timeliness
Structure Example:
Use straightforward words; avoid slang and overly dramatic tone.
Stick to facts. If something’s not confirmed, say so.
Post as soon as possible, but never without checking your info first
[HEADLINE]: Flood Alert in Brgy. Hulong Duhat
[BODY]: As of 6:00 PM, floodwaters along Gov. Pascual Ave. have reached knee-level due to continuous rain. Avoid the area.
[CALL TO ACTION]: Stay tuned for updates. For rescue, call Malabon DRRMO at 0942-372-9891.
Using Headlines and Captions Effectively - Your headline or caption is the hook. It can either make people click or scroll past.
Do:
Keep it short but clear.
Mention the location and type of update (e.g., “Evacuation Alert” / “Flood Update”)
Reflect what’s in the content (no clickbait!)
Examples:
1.“Class Suspensions Announced in Malabon due to Heavy Rainfall”
2.“LIVE: Updates on Typhoon Carina’s Impact in CAMANAVA”
Dont:
Post vague captions like “Grabe!” or “Nakakalungkot.”
Use all-caps unless necessary (it can trigger panic).
Best Practices in Framing Disaster News - Framing affects how people perceive the situation. Based on our analysis, here’s how CAMANAVA News effectively used frames:
a. Newsroom Frames (internal approach):
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Posts prioritized timely delivery, local relevance, and emotional connection.
The tone remained respectful and community-centered.
b. News Frames (how the story is told):
Human Interest Frame – Highlighted evacuees, volunteers, and stories of survival.
Responsibility Frame – Pointed to government actions (or inactions).
Consequences Frame – Showed damage, affected barangays, and impact on daily life.
c. Framing Effects (impact on audience):
Posts with clear, empathetic language got more shares and comments.
Sensationalist framing led to panic or misinformation.
Balanced, accurate posts built trust with the audience.
To end, disaster coverage isn’t just about posting fast, it’s about posting right. When you post with truth, care, and purpose, you’re not just informing. You’re helping.
DDRESSING A CHALLENGES I N ISASTERD
EPORTING R
Common Problems
Misinformation and Lack of Checking Emotional Bias
In the midst of disasters, unverified or false information can spread in instant, principally on social media. Journalists may rely on eyewitness accounts or trending posts without confirmation, which can involuntarily contribute to misinformation.
Disaster events are emotionally intense. Journalists may feel pressure or personal empathy that involuntarily impacted on how stories are framed. While emotional angles are relevant, facts and balance must always remain impartial to reporting.
Ways to Handle Fake News and Rumors
Have a Checking Process: Always confirm information with at least two trusted sources, like local government offices, NDRRMC, or reliable citizen reporters.
Use Reliable Tools: Tools such as Google Reverse Image Search and InVID can help check if photos or videos are real.
Add Warnings: When publishing partially confirmed reports, add clear disclaimers like “This report is based on initial updates and is subject to verification.”
Correct False News: Use your platform to explain and correct fake or wrong information when you see it.
Monitor Trends – Use social listening tools (like TweetDeck or CrowdTangle) to track what information is spreading and identify potentially false claims early.
Reporting Through Blackouts: Low-Tech & Offline Solutions
No Internet or Power: Bring tools that don’t need electricity, like notebooks, battery-powered audio recorders, and power banks. You can also work with radio stations or use public bulletin boards to share news.
No Instant Updates: Keep in touch with local disaster officers who can send updates through text messages. Make sure you have a list of reliable barangay-level contacts who can give trusted information.
Add a Quick-Grab Box/Sidebar Idea: Quick Grab: Low-Tech Survival Kit for Journalists
Power bank
batteries Pen and notepad
Battery-powered radio Offline map
list
Pre-Disaster Reporting: Early Warnings and preparedness
Early information before a disaster strikes, can save lives. The main purpose of local media outlets is to inform and warn the public ahead of time for them to prepare and plan immediately before the disaster strikes. These releases are one of the main of local media pages like CAMANAVA news by using their Facebook page for an early announcement to the community before the disaster.
Being a disaster reporter, what are the important things to post before the disaster:
Official Weather Alerts - You can use storm signals form PAG-ASA or official pages of local government units (Include photos of signal warning from PAG-ASA and CAMANAVA LGU).
Safety Checklist - Giving tips on public safety about what are the things they need to bring and pack such as emergency kits, medicine, important documents, food, water, etc. Use pubmats or infographics so that your audience can easily grasp the information without spending too much time reading your release.
List of Nearby Evacuation Center - Providing information and routes on where to go if needed.
Emergency hotlines - Providing contact details from, Police, Fire department, and rescue teams, etc.
Here are the contacts you can rely on you disaster coverage:
Providing reminders such as, Stay indoor, charge phones, stock food can help the public to stay vigilant, you can post it from time to time to keep your audience posted and prepared.
Example:
PAGASA warns signal No.2 for Caloocan. Preparing Emergency bags, and securing homes are advised. Stay tuned for further updates.
Reminder:
The Goal is to help the public stay alert calmly and correctly
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During The Disaster: Live updates and safety instructions
When disaster strikes, real-time updates are needed.
Several people often use facebook as their lifeline in gathering quick and clear information. Releases must be accurate and fast but make sure it is accurate to avoid panic confusion to audience.
What are the things you can post during disaster:
Live
weather and damage updates
Live updating your audience with the current situation of their location relieves them and gives them idea what are the things they need to do and prepare
You can post about the current flood levels especially in flood prone areas and as well as those routes they need to avoid in case that they are driving.
Rainfall intensity or signals either it is light to heavy rainfall
Reporting how strong the wind and areas that are prone in landslide or collapsing structures.
Advisories such as: disruption of communication, Blackouts, and water interruptions.
Here is a sample:
Barangay Acacia residents are advised to move to higher ground immediately due to a waist-deep flood. Power interruptions are reported due to strong wind.
Remember: Use official sources like PAGASA, LGU’s and verified reports.
Reporting Safety Instruction like Evacuation and Emergency Alerts
Right and accurate instructions save lives, but make sure it is clear, calm and precise, Do not add panic to the situation.
Here are the things you can add to your article: Which areas are needed to be evacuated, include the nearby evacuation centers Include the things they need to bring (Emergency kits, medicine, and important documents) Also include the things that they should NOT to do during disaster (like avoid exposing on flood)
Here is a sample:
Residents in Barangay Catmon are now on mandatory evacuation and must proceed to Catmon Integrated School immediately. Bringing Food, water, and important documents are advised as well.
Reminder: Always include the exact name of the location, you can also add the address or landmark of the area. Avoid general terms or names that cause confusion to the public.
Traffic advisories, road closures and hazard
Even when disaster strikes, people tend to be on road and drive whether it is for work or buying goods, possibilities of danger could be higher at this time especially if they don’t know which roads are blocked or unsafe.
Here are the things you can add to your article: Roads and streets that are flooded, you can also add the level of the flood. Roads that are also cracked or collapsed. Road and bridges that are closed
• Reported landslide and debris and include their exact location, you can also include an alternative route.
Here is a sample:
Sanciangco street is blocked due to knee-deep flooding. The Malabon local government advised to use C-4 road as an alternative route.
LGU and National Agencies update
At times of disaster, people need a clear and reliable instruction not some random suggestions
Here are the things you can add to your article:
Evacuation orders from LGU such as curfew hours and rescue operations
Announcement from PAGASA, NDRRMC, DSWD
Schedules of distribution for relief operations
Safety reminders form departments including Police and Fire Department.
Here is a sample:
Mayor Malapitan orders a alternative evacuation area for residents along riverside barangays.
Remember:
Always include who mentioned or issued the order (Mayor, Barangay Captain, PAGASA, NDRRMC, etc.)
Reporting after the disaster gives hope and direction towards the victim. It shows both extent of the damage the resilience of the community
What are the information you can include to your report:
Reporting damages, Showing casualties and numbers of homes and family affected and those area that are still flooded, by including this information, LGU and rescuers can locate the area who aren’t given help
Relief Operations, include the location where to get food, water and medical help
Positive stories from the community such as stories of heroism, survival, or what they usually called “Bayanihan”
Rebuilding updates, such as clearing operation or reopening of road and restoration or electricity and water supply/ Donation drives make sure it is verified and official.
Example:
Barangay NBBS Dagat-dagatan continues its relief operations at the barangay hall, Food packs, Hygiene kits are being distributed. Calling out for volunteers and donations are still needed.
Goal:
Helping the community to gain their hope and resilience and guide them to a faster recovery from the disaster.
Using Multimedia in Disaster Reports: Photos, Infographics, and Videos.
Visuals can tell stories faster than words. Using Facebook as a platform in releasing news combinations of words and visuals makes your story more effective and engaging to your audience, good visuals also gains more reactions and shares. What about using this combination to save lives and guide the public to awareness especially in disaster.
TIps on using Multimedia Properly:
Photos - with the help of photos, you can show the current situation and condition of the area. Are you reporting a heavy rainfall? Then you can show photos of evacuation centers or flooded streets to support your story. However, you need to consider the privacy of the people that are affected.
Infographics - make sure your infographics are simple and readable, the main goal is to show important information, avoid unnecessary elements and multiple fonts (Remember your maximum fonts are 3 designs only). You can include Emergency numbers, flood-prone areas, and safety guidelines.
Videos - Short clips of current situation, interviews with officials, and real-time status reports. (Always consider the privacy of the victims)
Remember:
In using multimedia, there are 3 things you need to make sure:
1.The images and videos that are used are current and real, Do not use old photos or fake content such AI generated visuals.
2.Do not show graphic scenes like, injuries or dead bodies, unless necessary.
3.Caption your photos and videos with clear and information that is necessary. Avoid putting claims or not related captions
S MEDIA ENGAGEMENT TRATEGIESS
How to interact with audiences responsibly
At times of disaster people rely on Facebook for real-time news, local media outlets usually are responsible in providing timely and accurate information towards the public. However, during this time people tend to be overwhelmed with fear and looking for guidance during a disaster. As a disaster reporter, it depends on your interaction with your audience how they will react to it. It can either calm and relieve their worries of add to the chaos.
These guidelines will help journalists engage with the public properly, manage social media responsibly, and encourage safe informationsharing.
Here’s how interact responsible on your audience:
Respond Calmly - Using polite and professional language towards them even if they are mad, aggressive or scared. Always consider there situation before answering them.make sure that the response that you’ll provide will not cause panic or will make them more upset
Verified Information should always come first - Your answer or post will always be based on reliable and official sources like PAGASA, NDRRMC, LGU’s. Never rely on what you just heard and he said/she said.
Be Human and consider their situation - Think of your audience’s emotion and how they will react because of their situation. Statements such as “We understand your concern” assure and help to connect with empathy towards them.
Speculations are prohibited - Using “might” is unacceptable, never guess outcomes unless authorities and officials announce it, remember safety and lives are being considered in disaster reporting.
Clear words and instructions - Avoid using words that are unfamiliar or using jargon. Always speak or write layman’s terms for a wider audience to understand and comprehend your message. Always consider everyone
Sample statement:
"Thank you for reaching out. Based on PAGASA’s latest advisory, evacuation is recommended only for Barangays along the Tullahan River. Stay tuned for updates."
Managing Comments and Misinformation
Being a news organization, you need to maintain the credibility of your page, prevent misinformation, panis and to fact check spreading information right away.
Here are the things you can do when handling comments and misinformation
Keep monitoring comments actively - Assign moderators to monitor comment sections to check if there are spreading rumors or misleading information to avoid misconception and confusion towards the public especially to your audience.
Correct Politely - Addressing misinformation respectfully, by providing right information pr links to the official announcement and related articles when correcting false information.
Pinned posts - At times like disasters, information and news are bombarded in local news outlets, that leads to other important information that cannot be seen easily. By pinning official advisories or important news at the top of your page for easier access and saves your audience time and effort.
Handling frequent offenders - Users who repeatedly warn ang keep on commenting false information or unnecessary words that may cause confusion and harm towards the other audience, can be blocked after several warnings on your page.
Encouraging public participation in information sharing - Your audience can help to provide useful ground-level reports while ensuring their safety and preventing misinformation
Request updates - Encouraging you followers to send safe reports and situations within their area, by means of this, you followers can help you to know the exact situation and to ensure safety to as further help, sending flood levels, establishment situation, or even road conditions.
Verify information before including details - Always do a background check on a citizen that reports with at least one more sources before posting or sharing.
Acknowledge them - Acknowledging your sources who send helpful information or giving them credits, with this, it can encourage them to give more information or other people to send as well.
Teach Media Literacy - Sharing simple infographics on identifying fake news during a disaster, it can be a comparison of the real situation and the fake information that was used either photo or video.
Additional Guide:
Goal
Accuracy Over Speed
Calm communication
What
it means
Post only verified facts, even if it takes longer. (But not too long, always consider the urgency of your news, especially if it is a disaster news.)
Avoid panic-triggering words or tones. Use professional and respectful words.
Respect for Public Recognize the emotions of audiences without being sensationalist.
Active Correction Fight misinformation quickly but respectfully.
Community Engagement View citizens as partners, not just audiences.
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RISIS C COMMUNICATIONP LAN
Introduction
In the digital age, effective disaster communication can save lives. Whether it’s a real-time flood update, a fire advisory, or a public warning from local authorities, the way information is delivered during a crisis directly affects how the public reacts. For local media outlets like CAMANAVA News, which operates primarily on Facebook, having a clear communication strategy is not just helpful it’s essential.
This crisis communication plan provides practical and researchbacked guidelines for managing disaster coverage on social media. Rooted in our thesis findings and aligned with professional journalistic standards, the plan includes:
Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for before, during, and after disasters;
Coordination protocols with official agencies such as the MDRRMO and LGUs;
Safety guidelines for journalists and contributors reporting from the field.
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I. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
To maintain the quality, reliability, and timeliness of disaster-related updates, CAMANAVA News must follow clear and consistent procedures before, during, and after a crisis. These SOPs are grounded in best practices observed during our research and aim to support an efficient workflow.
A. Before the Disaster
Regularly monitor weather bulletins and advisories from official sources such as PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, and NDRRMC.
Coordinate with local authorities (e.g., barangay offices, LGU PIOs) for early warnings or scheduled drills.
Prepare standard post templates for common disaster-related scenarios (e.g., flood alerts, evacuation notices).
Assign and brief team members with specific roles:
Verifier – Confirms information from official sources.
Writer – Crafts the post using verified data.
Graphic Editor – Prepares infographics, maps, or visuals.
Poster/Moderator – Publishes content and monitors audience feedback.
Establish a communication thread for internal coordination among team members.
B. During the Disaster
Prioritize posting verified and location-specific information. Include essential details: what, where, when, and what to do.
Cite sources clearly (e.g., “According to Malabon DRRMO, as of 4:00 PM…”).
Avoid posting unconfirmed reports or user-generated content unless properly verified.
Avoid posting unconfirmed reports or user-generated content unless properly verified.
Update earlier posts as new information becomes available. Frequency of updates should be every 2–4 hours or as necessary.
Maintain a calm, clear, and fact-based tone.
C. After the Disaster
Report on relief operations, community efforts, and local government recovery measures.
Highlight accurate information about support services (e.g., distribution schedules, hotline numbers).
Share stories of resilience and volunteerism to boost community morale.
Archive all disaster-related content for future review.
Conduct a post-coverage evaluation to identify communication gaps and improve future SOPs.
II. Guidelines for Coordinating with Government Agencies
Strong collaboration between media platforms and disaster management agencies enhances information accuracy and public safety. CAMANAVA News is encouraged to establish clear coordination protocols with key government offices.
Designate an internal liaison (e.g., the team’s assigned “government contact handler”) to reach out to LGUs and DRRMOs.
Request inclusion in disaster communication groups (e.g., Viber/FB Messenger groups used during crises).
Always cite government sources in disaster-related posts and tag their official pages for transparency.
Share verified information only. In case of doubt, wait for official confirmation before publishing.
Respect embargoed or sensitive data do not release casualty numbers or names unless officially cleared.
During long-term disasters, schedule regular check-ins or info exchanges with LGU partners to keep the public updated.
III. Safety Protocols for Journalists Covering Disasters
Field reporting during disasters presents significant risks. Whether contributors are students, volunteers, or full-time staff, their safety must remain a top priority. The following protocols are designed to minimize danger while still ensuring effective coverage.
A. In-the-Field Safety Guidelines
Always work in pairs or groups. Avoid solo field assignments during high-risk conditions.
Bring emergency essentials: phone, power bank, whistle, drinking water, and first-aid kit.
Do not enter flooded, unstable, or structurally compromised areas.
Keep communication lines open. Assign a team member to check in with field reporters at scheduled intervals.
Use long lenses or zoom features to maintain distance from dangerous locations.
B. Digital and Ethical Safety
Use verified social media accounts and limit admin access to avoid tampering.
Do not publish images of injured individuals, minors, or casualties unless permission is given or the post is cleared by authorities.
Monitor public feedback and report hostile or harmful comments to page moderators.
Avoid engaging in online arguments or spreading emotionally charged posts that could mislead or incite panic.
Disaster communication is a responsibility that goes beyond simple reporting. With proper coordination, clear standard procedures, and a strong commitment to safety, CAMANAVA News can uphold its role as a reliable and trusted information source in times of crisis. The protocols outlined in this plan are designed to support its mission of serving the public with integrity, accuracy, and care.
ONCLUSIONC
Disasters do not wait and neither should accurate, responsible reporting. This guidebook was built to equip local communicators, student journalists, and community-based news platforms like CAMANAVA News with the tools and principles needed to report disasters clearly, ethically, and effectively on social media.
Through the various sections of this guide, we explored how Facebook functions not just as a platform for breaking news, but as a digital lifeline for disaster-prone communities. We examined real examples through textual and content analysis, addressed common reporting challenges, and outlined practical steps for writing, publishing, and engaging the public during emergencies. The inclusion of a crisis communication plan, ready-to-use templates, and coordination protocols with local agencies adds depth and real-world usability to this resource.
At the core of this work is a simple truth: effective disaster reporting saves lives. Whether it’s clarifying where the flood is worst, when help will arrive, or who to call every accurate post matters. Every caption, update, and image has the potential to inform or mislead. That’s why the role of journalists especially local and campus-based reporters is more important than ever.
In a time where misinformation spreads as fast as typhoon winds, journalists must take a stand. We must be the filters, the fact-checkers, and the first to correct wrong information. Responsible news reporting isn’t just about telling stories it’s about protecting communities.
AMPLES TEMPLATES F OR
ISASTERD EPORTING R
Example Facebook Post Structures Typhoon Alert
�� [TYPE OF UPDATE]: [DISASTER NAME] [REGION/LOCATION]
�� Contact: 0917-123-4567 for inquiries or bulk donations
Every donation counts Please share and help spread the word!
#TulongPH #CAMANAVAcares
Hashtags and Tagging Strategies
1.Use standardized tags like #ReliefPH, #RescuePH, #TyphoonPH
2.Always tag official agencies: @NDRRMC OpCen, @dswdserves, @dost pagasa
3.Geo-tagging improves local discoverability (e.g., #MalabonUpdates)
1.Confirm event with at least one government or agency source
2.Verify photo or video authenticity
3.Confirm date/time of occurrence
4.Avoid emotionally charged or alarmist language
5.Include safety or emergency hotlines
6.Use neutral, respectful language when reporting on casualties or injuries.
R
ECOMMENDATIIONS
Implementing the Guidebook
Daily Briefings: Include this guidebook in the daily editorial process, especially during typhoon seasons or when critical alerts are issued.
Content Calendar: Plan and share preparedness content even when there are no immediate disasters to help raise awareness.
Feedback Loop: Include a system for readers to report inaccuracies or request clarification via email or comment moderation.
Suggested Training
Verification Workshops: Provide hands-on training for journalists on how to use verification tools and how to spot misinformation.
Crisis Simulation Exercises: Conduct mock disaster coverage to see how reporters handle pressure in real situations.
Mental Health First Aid: Offer training to help reporters manage emotional stress during difficult disaster coverage.
Ethical Reporting in Sensitive Cases: Training on how to handle stories involving death, injury, or trauma.
Visual Literacy: Train journalists to analyze images and videos critically before sharing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Odralim Dela Cruz Villarez was born on February 7, 2003, and currently lives in Barangay Longos, the municipality of Malabon. He graduated from Imelda Elementary School during elementary level, Longos National High School during junior high school with honors and outstanding performance academically, and St. Therese of the Child Jesus Academy during senior high school with high honors and graduated as a salutatorian. He took General Academic Strand (GAS) in SHS and is currently taking a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and consistent President Lister. This researcher is a photojournalist and part of the editorial board as secretary of “The Current,” the official student publication of the City of Malabon University. He is a former volleyball player, and contemporary dancer and is currently part of the youth advocate, Kabataan Community Health Advocacy Team also known as Ka-CHAT, a youth network advocating for SRHR under Likhaan and co-funded by the European Union.
Villarez, a current leader of this study is interested in photography and calisthenics, and he is capable of doing tasks as a social media manager, admin assistant, and data encoding at the age of 18 years old, he received a job offer and worked for a year to a realtor client in Detroit, Michigan
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jay Ferson B. Comitan, born on January 1, 2003 in Malabon City, studies Journalism at the City of Malabon University and has a strong interest in media and communication. He completed his elementary education at Potrero Elementary School – Main, his junior secondary education at Tinajeros National High School, and graduated with honors from Tinajeros National Senior High School under Humanities and Social Sciences. He is currently part of a research team working on topics related to the media, with the goal of producing informative and socially relevant work.
Comitan previously served as the news desk editor for the broadcast program CMU I-Connect and also a former news writer and editor for the independent student publication The Current. He participated in numerous seminars and conferences both within and outside the university. In 2024, he was one of the finalists and represented the university at the Philippine Journalism Research Conference held at the University of the Philippines – Diliman. He also represented CMU at the ‘FilipiKnows’ mini press conference at De La Salle Araneta University. In addition to his editorial and academic endeavors, Comitan is an active freelance writer, editor, and photographer.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ms. Jacel Dhafnie Trinida on January 4, 2004, in Barangay Catmon, City of Malabon, where she also currently lives. She graduated from both elementary and junior high schools at Catmon Integrated School with honors. She also completed her senior high school at Divine Mercy College Foundation Inc. under Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS) with high honors. The researcher is currently the editor-in-chief of “The Current,” the official student publication of the City of Malabon University, and is also a former associate editor for external affairs and a new writer. She is also a Teenage Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Advocate under the Likhaan Center for Women and a participating youth organization in her community.
The researcher has an interest in writing, producing short films, and documentaries. Her participation in publication made her more interested in crafting stories such as feature and literary pieces. She also knows basic skills in editing videos and publication materials, which she aspires to improve, especially to enhance her writing skills to have better and higher-quality content that she produces in the future.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Edward Angelo M. Lopez was born on April 14, 2002, in Tinajeros, Malabon City. He graduated elementary education at Tinajeros Elementary School, his junior secondary education at Tinajeros National High School, and graduated Senior High School at Malabon City Tech-Voc & Entrepreneurship Senior High School under Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The researcher studies Journalism at the City of Malabon University, and is currently part of the CMU I-Connect as director/cameraman/editor. CMU IConnect is a multimedia broadcast organization at the City of Malabon University.
As a part of media production of CMU I-Connect, Lopez has advanced skill in video editing and has edited various news items. He has also been a tech-assistant, a cameraman, and a director in live coverages, gaining a lot of experience in the field of media production. He has a passion for photography and film production, he also loves watching documentaries in his free time.
We hope this guide helps you do that. Because disaster reporting isn’t just a job it’s public service. authors
