Use geohazard maps to reduce disaster risk, LGUs told

MANILA, Philippines — Local governments were urged to take advantage of the geohazard maps risk data of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) for disaster risk reduction efforts.

In an interview with PTV, MGB Assistant Secretary Karlo Queaño said they provide geohazard maps that can identify communities susceptible to rain-induced landslides, floods and storm surges.

The maps are based on nationwide field geological assessments that identify rain-induced landslides, flooding pathways, coastal hazards and subsidence risks which can serve as a guide to disaster preparedness, evacuation planning and urban zoning.

“In an area that is prone to flooding, we can conduct programs in terms of mitigation as well as adaptation. In a flood-prone area, if we know how high the floodwaters rise, this will help in designing our infrastructure,” Queaño said.

“Now, as regularly as possible, we update the maps. We know that over the years, the condition of a place can change due to natural factors as well as interventions made by our fellow citizens,” he added.

Queaño said that geohazard data should serve as a guide for the land-use planning and infrastructure design of LGUs, especially in high-risk areas, by formulating mitigation and adaptation strategies.

He stressed the importance of planning ahead especially in worst-case scenarios during rainfall, flooding and sea level rise, noting that long-term infrastructure should be built to help in mitigation plans during disasters.