FIVE YEARS after super typhoon “Yolanda” devastated numerous communities in the Visayas and nearby regions, it is hoped we all have learned our lessons well. Let us bring our resilience to a higher level — where we need not weep for a lost loved one after a natural hazard and where there is less or no more damaged infrastructure and properties because we have already managed to make our communities safe.
The rehabilitation plan of the government, however, has been exceedingly slow. Survivors fear of facing the same tragedy again. The concept of “building back better” must be made concrete. How?
We must rebuild communities with the confidence that we are not rebuilding the risks again. We need to ensure that reconstruction of homes and infrastructure will be on safer ground following geohazard maps and sound construction standards. We need to re-start and create livelihoods; and restore normalcy to people’s lives with a stronger sense of hope and confidence for the future.
We must learn from the key lessons that “Yolanda” left. For one, we must focus on managing the risks rather than managing disasters. Local disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation plans are indispensable. Funds should be sufficiently allocated. Cooperation among local and national governments, businesses, and the communities is imperative.
Local governments and businesses need to let science work for our communities. The best solutions are possible only with the guidance of science. Develop land use plans that are risk sensitive. The dictum is not just to build, but build stronger. Build for the future.
Another lesson: Protect our environment and pursue green urban development. We need to go back to the basics: protect our ecosystems and natural buffers such as mangrove forests to mitigate floods, storm surges and other hazards. Design and enforce building standards to address future hazards, not past ones.
We should all be “disaster-literate.” We need to understand and believe in the risks. Everybody should be part of the solution.
Finally, prepare adequately and engage. While disaster prevention should be the greater focus of our efforts, response preparedness is likewise important to prevent further casualties and reduce losses. Contingency plans are crucial in times of disasters. Local governments must have the political will to implement forced evacuation when called for.
With adequate and proper preparation, we would already have won half the battle.
