The Risk Behind Risk Perceptions in Iligan City: How Assets, Resources and Networks Shape Disaster Behavior and Response
Author: Amabelle A. Embornas, amabelle.embornas@g.msuiit.edu.ph
Department: Sociology
University: University of the Philippines, Philippines
Supervisor: Francisco J. Lara, Jr
Year of completion: 2024
Language of dissertation: English
Keywords:
disaster
, risk perception
, Typhoon Washi
Areas of Research:
Disasters
, Risk and Uncertainty
, Sociology of Risk and Uncertainty
Abstract
This study explores the sociological dimensions of risks and disasters, investigating the complexities arising from evolving risk perceptions influenced by assets, resources, and social networks, and the subsequent disaster behavior response. Our focus centers on how the assets, resources and social network of two communities, Barangay Pala-o and Barangay Hinaplanon, in Iligan City, Mindanao, Southern Philippines, has shaped the risk perception and disaster response.
Hinaplanon, situated in proximity to Mandulog River, faces heightened risks of flooding, fires, and earthquakes, with a history of frequent flash floods since 1972. Similarly, Pala-o, located near Pugaan River, is susceptible to flooding and landslides. Despite both being flood-prone, these communities exhibited divergent responses during Typhoon Sendong, with one community better mitigating the impact: why?
Utilizing a mixed methods approach that integrates both quantitative and qualitative data, our research investigates the risk perceptions and disaster response behavior of both Barangays Pala-o and Hinaplanon. Through an analysis of pre- and post-Typhoon Sendong scenarios, the study identifies substantial disparities in risk assessments and disaster behavior response between the two barangays. Our findings suggest a relationship between the differences in assets owned, available resources, and established social network connections, and the variations in risk perception and disaster response behavior observed between Pala-o and Hinaplanon.
The study establishes that assets, resources, and social networks serve as key determinants influencing risk perception and disaster response behavior. Individuals endowed with significant assets, ample resources, and extensive social networks consistently exhibit heightened preparedness and display more effective disaster response behavior. The study underscores the intrinsic connection between the distribution dynamics of assets, resources, and social networks and the political economy of a society. It highlights that these relationships are deeply interlinked with the broader socio-political structures, shaping the accessibility, control, and utilization of these critical elements.
