The Commission on Human Rights joins communities around the world today as we observe the International Day for Disaster Reduction.

In the Philippines and across the globe, natural disasters affect most severely the vulnerable segment of the population as they are most likely to experience the negative impact of natural hazards. When disasters hit communities that are less prepared and have low awareness of the risks, natural disasters further disadvantage the disadvantaged. Women, children, people with disabilities, the elderly, indigenous communities, and minorities are often subject to discrimination and lack opportunities. They are caught in the vicious cycle where poverty creates vulnerability and disasters increase poverty.

The Philippines’ geographic location makes it more susceptible to natural hazards. Poor communities that have high occurrence of typhoons and other disasters in their areas are not able to recover easily from the shocks compared to the rest of the population as they are more dependent on natural systems for their livelihood and health needs. Economic losses from disasters causes poverty traps and dampen national growth.

Our past experiences as a country have proven that disasters always have a human cost—it disrupts lives and displaces people. That is why all disaster reduction initiatives should be risked-informed to avoid events that could lead to the loss of life, homes and livelihoods, as well as damage to important communal facilities and assets. Although we can rebuild infrastructures and replace properties, we will never be able to bring back the lives of those who suffered from such unprotected risks.

The Commission maintains its call to the government through an advisory to adopt a human rights-based approach to disaster preparedness, response and recovery. As duty bearers, the government must continue to look for ways on how to reduce disaster risks and mitigate its impacts both at the individual and community levels, while investing on disaster-resilient infrastructures as part of a more sustainable strategy. The promotion of community outreach and education programs are also necessary to help increase general awareness of the risks and help communities become better equipped and prepared. ###