The Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science and Mathematics (FSM), Diponegoro University (UNDIP) held an Online Visiting Professor activity, with Dr. Roel F. Ceballos from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), Philippines. The activity was carried out virtually via Zoom. This activity was chaired by Alan Prahutama, S.Si, M.Si, Ph.D as a lecturer in Statistics, FSM, UNDIP.
Dr. Roel delivered the material entitled A Statistical Operational Framework for Measuring Disaster Preparedness. Dr. Roel delivered the material by raising cases in the Philippines, which are vulnerable to natural disasters, especially Typhoon. Natural disasters, especially typhoons, can currently be predicted with certainty, but readiness to deal with natural disasters needs to be studied more deeply, so that victims due to natural disasters can be minimized. According to Dr. Roel, a comprehensive and consistent approach is needed to measure disaster preparedness in all regions.
Dr. Roel explained that this research supports several SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) programs including SDG 1—No Poverty, SDG 11—Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 13—Climate Action. Dr. Roel emphasized that effective disaster preparedness is needed not only about saving lives—but also about breaking the cycle where disasters encourage people affected by disasters to become poor. Dr. Roel uses the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Factor Analysis for Mixed Data (FAMD) approaches as methods to measure or map disaster preparedness in the Philippines.
Based on this approach, the Disaster Preparedness Index (DPI) was formed which maps the regions in the Philippines into three groups, namely High preparedness, Moderate preparedness, and Low preparedness. Each group has its own characteristics, for the high preparedness group it has characteristics such as strong local government readiness, adequate infrastructure, and a well-organized disaster risk management system. For moderate preparedness, it has characteristics, including preparedness in dealing with disasters is average; the basics of disaster risk reduction already exist, but face problems in implementation, coordination, and infrastructure. Meanwhile, low preparedness has characteristics of being very vulnerable to disasters; poor infrastructure, undeveloped disaster risk reduction systems, and minimal emergency capacity. Dr. Roel explained that DPI can be used for resource allocation, ensuring that areas with the greatest need receive targeted support, for policy targeting so that interventions are focused on areas of greatest need, and for monitoring progress to monitor improvements over time.
Furthermore, the results of this research can be used as recommendations for the government in disaster preparedness. First, we need to strengthen the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices, such as increasing staff, providing ongoing training, and ensuring adequate funding. Second, we must improve critical infrastructure, from reliable utilities and well-designed evacuation centers to safe road networks and effective zoning regulations to minimize risks. Finally, local governments should hold disaster drills regularly and maintain a strong early warning communication system, so that the community or community not only receives information, but they are able to respond when a hazard occurs.