Knowledge on Natural and Anthropogenic Disasters of People in Isolated Areas in the Province of Zamboanga del Norte

Abstract

The knowledge of individuals on natural and anthropogenic disasters is of prime consideration as to their preparedness if such phenomena occur. The study determined the knowledge on natural and anthropogenic disasters of people in isolated areas. The study utilized the descriptive method of research through the use of a questionnaire on disaster preparedness and documentary analysis. The questionnaire consisted of items on the natural and anthropogenic disasters and profile of the respondents. Secondary data were also gathered to strengthen the results of this study. The knowledge of 397 respondents in isolated areas in the Municipalities of Siayan, Sindangan, and Godod on natural and anthropogenic disasters was determined. People living in isolated areas of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines are not mostly knowledgeable of the natural and anthropogenic disasters. The geographical boundaries separating these people from more civilized part of the community aggravated by their low monthly income could hinder their capacity to acquire other media as sources of information on these disasters. The dialect used to deliver information through radios, posters, warning signs coupled with their educational attainment also posed a barrier on their knowledge of the natural and anthropogenic disasters specifically those older ones who remained in their traditional beliefs and maintained the identity of their culture. Correspondingly, their beliefs and traditions are factors on the acquisition of knowledge towards these disasters since they believe on the manifestations of spirits in nature as the causes that would explain undesirable events in their surroundings. Inadequate knowledge placed these vulnerable people in the peril of risking their lives in the unpredictable occurrence of disasters.