multi-hazard environment - philiphines Flashcards
(17 cards)
Where is the Philippines located and why is it considered multi-hazardous?
Southeast Asia, an archipelago of 7,600+ islands on the Pacific Ring of Fire; exposed to earthquakes, volcanoes, typhoons, floods, landslides, and tsunamis.
What social and economic characteristics affect hazard vulnerability in the Philippines?
Over 100 million people live there; 21.6% live below the poverty line; rapid urbanisation and poor-quality housing increase risk.
What are the three main natural hazards in the Philippines?
Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tropical storms (typhoons).
Name two significant earthquakes in the Philippines in 2018.
A 6.1 Mw quake in Luzon (5 deaths); a 7.1 Mw quake off Mindanao (less damage).
What volcanoes are considered the most dangerous in the Philippines?
Mayon, Pinatubo, and Taal — all with histories of violent eruptions and large populations nearby.
What secondary hazards are triggered by the main natural hazards in the Philippines?
Lahars, landslides, tsunamis, flooding, fires, and storm surges.
What was the impact of Typhoon Mangkhut in 2018?
127 deaths, $627 million damage, 3 million directly affected, and 11 million affected by rice farm flooding.
How do natural disasters affect the economy of the Philippines?
Estimated cost is 0.5% of GDP annually; indirect and secondary effects increase this.
What social risks are linked to hazards in the Philippines?
High death tolls, homelessness, poor health, school closures, food insecurity, and displacement.
How do environmental conditions increase hazard risk in the Philippines?
Deforestation, unprotected slopes, and poor land use contribute to landslides and flooding.
What are the key weaknesses in disaster management in the Philippines?
Reactive, centralised approach; lack of local empowerment; focus on short-term aid over long-term planning.
What recent government shift in disaster spending has been implemented?
70% for long-term risk reduction, 30% for emergency relief.
What role does the Red Cross play in managing hazard risk in the Philippines?
Community-based programmes for training, land-use mapping, physical and health-related mitigation, and public education.
How have Filipino communities demonstrated resilience?
Through community cooperation, volunteerism, and survival despite repeated disasters; some show fatalistic attitudes.
What are examples of mitigation measures used in the Philippines?
Sea walls, evacuation plans, early warning systems, clean water access, and land-use regulations.
What challenges prevent effective hazard management in the Philippines?
Financial constraints, corruption, decentralised governance, and rapid urban growth in risk zones.
How does climate change worsen hazard exposure in the Philippines?
Increases storm severity, sea-level rise, unpredictable rainfall, and intensifies secondary hazards like flooding and landslides.
