Zero Casualty: The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Strategy of
Albay Province, Philippines
Abstract
Albay province in the Philippines is beset by multiple climatic and
geologic hazards, but it has largely managed to stick to its
zero-casualty goals during disasters. In fact, many international
organizations have hailed the provincial government’s highly effective
disaster risk response and management (DRRM). Through interviews, focus
group discussions, and document analysis, the researchers sought to know
the reasons for Albay’s success. Six strategies were discovered: (1)
making DRRM a goal, (2) ordaining policies on DRRM, (3) building
institutions related to DRRM, (4) providing an adequate budget for DRRM,
(5) implementing DRRM programs and projects, and (6) forging
partnerships with other DRRM stakeholders. Recommendations on how other
provinces can replicate the Albay system are provided.