Date of Publication :31st October 2023

Abstract: Natural and human-induced disasters in the Philippines have devastated the country, affecting its social and economic development. Particularly, people and the economy are highly vulnerable to the effects of disasters due to their reliance on climate-dependent industries. In response, collaborative groups, such as community-based disaster risk reduction and management (CDRRM), encourage community engagement and foster cooperation and active participation among vulnerable groups. Despite extensive research, information on household preparedness and resilience at the local level remains limited. The study examined the level of awareness and extent of preparedness for disaster management among community residents. The study utilized a descriptive-correlational design, proportional stratified random sampling used, and data collection was done through a questionnaire checklist. A total of 382 respondents aged 18-59, residing in Batac City, Pagudpud, and Pinili, the most affected towns of llocos Norte in the past five years, participated in the study. They demonstrated a high level of awareness and extent of preparedness. Additionally, only three variables - age, educational attainment, and family monthly income - showed a significant relationship with the respondents' level of awareness. Similarly, age and family monthly income exhibited a significant relationship with the extent of preparedness. Lastly, a significant relationship was found between the level of awareness and the extent of preparedness among the respondents' management. Through this study, the development of community-centered programs and disaster management education will improve communities' disaster management, and understanding of appropriate actions, and make the findings available for future academic use.

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