Evaluating the Role of Flood Early Warning Systems in Enhancing Resilience of Vulnerable Communities in the Philippines = 필리핀 취약 지역 사회의 회복력 향상을 위한 홍수 조기 경보 시스템의 역할 평가

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

The Philippines, known as a disaster-prone country due to its geographical location, is facing more extreme weather disturbances due to climate change. Every year, the country experiences more than 20 typhoons, often accompanied by devastating floods. So, it is imperative to focus on the systems used to predict floods and alert households that will be affected by them. This study focuses on evaluating the role of flood early warning systems (FEWS) in strengthening the resilience of vulnerable communities, such as Candaba, Pampanga. Surveys, interviews, and document reviews were conducted to assess the performance and sustainability of FEWS as well as the perception of residents with regard to FEWS messages. The study revealed a high level of awareness of respondents, and FEWS messages were viewed as generally clear, accurate, timely, and reliable. At some point of the study, issues such as timeliness of alerts, language barriers, misinformation, and digital or technological limitations were identified as continuing challenges. In addition to this, the interviews with local officials confirmed institutional gaps such as poor internet connectivity, insufficient funding, and lack of skilled manpower that hinder FEWS operation and sustainability. Despite these challenges, the system remains a vital mechanism that enhances the information dissemination and disaster preparedness of the locality. Overall, the study underscores the significance of FEWS and how it contributes to enhancing community resilience. Thus, to make the systems more effective and sustainable, a stronger institutional integration, improved dissemination accessibility and reach, and continuous investment in technical and human capacities are needed for inclusive and people-oriented flood risk management across the country.

목차 (Table of Contents)

• Abstract i
• Table of contents iii
• List of tables vi
• List of figuresvii
• 1. Introduction 1
• 1.1 Background of the Study 1
• 1.2 Statement of the Problem 4
• 1.3 Research Objectives 5
• 1.4 Research Questions 6
• 1.5 Significance of the Study 7
• 1.6 Scope and Delimitations 7
• 2. Literature Review 9
• 2.1 Concept of Flood Early Warning System 9
• 2.2 Community Resilience in the Context of Flooding 19
• iv
• 2.3 Effectiveness of FEWS in Vulnerable Communities 24
• 2.4 Gaps and Challenges in implementing FEWS 29
• 3. Methodology 35
• 3.1 Participants Demographic 35
• 3.2 Study Area 36
• 3.3 Research Design 38
• 3.4 Data Collection Instruments and Procedure 38
• 3.5 Data Analysis 40
• 3.6 Ethical Considerations. 41
• 3.7 Limitations of Study 41
• 4. Results and Discussion 43
• 4.1 Demographic Characteristics of Respondents 43
• 4.2 Existing FEWS in Candaba, Pampanga 48
• 4.3 Respondents’ Awareness and Perception of FEWS 51
• 4.4 Gaps and Challenges in Implementing and Maintaining FEWS 57
• v
• 4.5 Ways to Improve FEWS 60
• 4.6 Integration of FEWS into DRRM and climate adaptation strategies63
• 5. Conclusions and Recommendations 68
• 5.1 Summary of Findings 68
• 5.2 Conclusions 70
• 5.3 Recommendations 72
• References 76
• 국문 초록 81
• Appendix 1. Summary of interview questions’ responses 83
• Appendix 2. Community Resilience Indicators and Results 86
• vi