A Case Study on Community Perception and Preparedness to Flooding at Barangay San Roque, San Miguel, and San Francisco

Abstract

This case study investigates the community perception and preparedness regarding flooding in the urban areas of Barangay San Roque, San Miguel, and San Francisco in Iriga City, Camarines Sur. The research was prompted by the extreme rainfall and unanticipated flooding caused by Typhoon Kristine in late 2024, which left some families trapped on roofs and faced significant livelihood losses. The study aimed to identify existing preparedness practices, uncover local challenges, and offer recommendations to enhance community resilience. The methodology involved a survey and in-depth interviews with a total of 45 residents and 30 barangay officials across the three locations. Findings revealed a high level of risk awareness, with over 92% of respondents in San Francisco and San Roque acknowledging their vulnerability to floods. While heavy rainfall was cited as the primary cause of flooding, residents also recognized the roles of climate change, poor drainage systems, and proximity to rivers and creeks. At the household level, preparedness is robust: most residents have lived in their barangays for over a decade and have developed specific survival strategies. These include safekeeping appliances prior to floods , shutting off power supplies , and maintaining "GO Bags" for emergencies. Furthermore, there is high awareness of early warning signals and local emergency plans, largely attributed to the effective use of social media and public address systems, or bandillo. From an institutional perspective, the barangay councils were found to be well-prepared, having established BDRRM Plans and protocols for preemptive and forced evacuations. However, significant gaps remain. The top problems identified by officials include uncooperative residents (96.67%), inadequate transportation, budget constraints, and a lack of specialized equipment like rubber boats. The study concludes that while the three barangays demonstrate strong resilience and readiness, systemic improvements are necessary. It recommends implementing sanctions for uncooperative residents, increasing response budgets, and collaborating with NGOs to build additional evacuation centers and provide more rescue vehicles to better manage future climate-related hazards.